This festival is one of the most important world events dedicated to the piano as both a solo instrument and as part of a great orchestra. Being the 50th edition, this year is obviously a special one and more than a theme, it has a title: From Michelangeli to Sokolov. Fifty years with the greats of the piano. According to current artistic director Pier Carlo Orizio, it essentially looks back to its prestigious history hosting great musicians such the young Chinese Yuya Wang (9-10 May) long before she became a celebrity, Lonquich (26 May-5 June) and Sokolov (9-10 June). Organisers continue to highlight contemporary composers with a programme of music by the likes of Penderecki, Part and even pop star Franco Battiato. It is also a chance to get to know new stars such as Danil Trifonov (16-17 May) and Jan Lisiecki (21-22 May). For booking and information tel. 030293022 in Brescia, and tel. 035240140 in Bergamo, www.festivalpianistico.it.