Free Classical Concerts in Rome — Photo courtesy of Nick J Webb
When it comes to free events in Rome, there is no shortage of things you can do for cheap or free. Throughout the year, the Comune di Roma (City of Rome) sponsors free concerts on special holidays such as May 1st (in celebration of worker's day) and during the summer as part of their cultural initiative Estate Romana. Typically, these free concerts feature popular Italian rock and pop artists and occasionally include internationally-known musicians as well.
For those into classical music, you're in for a real treat. The world-renowned Santa Cecilia Conservatory of Music has announced a free classical music concert series from March through October in partnership with the city of Rome. The concert series is called 'Musica a Roma...per Roma' (Music in Rome by Rome) and the concerts will feature music by composers dating back to the 1500s through today playing music that was either created in or inspired by the Eternal City.
The Conservatory of Santa Cecilia Holds Free Concerts in Rome — Photo courtesy of Stefan Karpiniec
The music series will include a total of 80 concerts featuring jazz, symphonic music, opera and film scores. There will also be various festivals, conferences, and book presentations included in the musical series. For dates and details about the free classical music concert series, make sure to check out the conservatory's website: www.conservatoriosantacecilia.it.
Another great place to look for free or cheap classical music concerts is churches. Often times, churches in Rome will hold free or inexpensive concerts for their parishioners and guests. Through July 2012, the Chiesa di Ponte Sant'Angelo concert series happens on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings. Tickets cost €15 and include wine. St. Andrew's Church (Via XX Setembre, 7), the English speaking Presbyterian church of Rome near the Metro Barberini stop, also holds concerts on Saturdays and tickets range €5-10 a person. Occasionally, the Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio (The Church of Saint Ignatius of Loyola) near the Pantheon also holds free concerts by international choirs from countries all over the world. This church usually posts posters and flyers about upcoming concerts on its doors and bulletin boards inside with more details and information.
