Irene Grandi, Bertinoro plays rock: "I'm proud of myself and my songs."

Kicking off the season of major concerts in the Gardens of the Rocca Vescovile in Bertinoro tomorrow evening at 9:30 pm will be Irene Grandi with a stop on her Fiera di me summer tour.

Irene Grandi, what will we see on the Bertinoro stage?

"A bit of my story, starting in 1994 and continuing until now. A journey through my songs, from the best-known ones to collaborations, up to musical experimentation. There will also be my three new singles: "Fiera di me," which also gives its name to the tour; "Universo," which renews the collaboration with Francesco Bianconi of Baustelle (who previously wrote "Bruci la città" and "La cometa di Halley"); and the most recent "Favole," released last April 11th. Does going on stage to celebrate a 30-year career feel different than when you were first there?

"The emotions are always new, and above all, it's always a great joy for me to step on stage. I have to say that with this tour I feel lighter, less stressed, also because we've put together these concerts with a wonderful team that I work very well with. Starting with the musical direction, which is by Marco Sabiu, who is also from Forlì. There's great attention to the lighting, the atmosphere, and the emotions the songs bring to the stage. Perhaps I'm also aware, as the title suggests, of the journey I've taken and the happiness of having released songs over all these years that have meant so much to me. Each one has its own meaning."

What is your relationship with Romagna?

"A land I love so much. It's described as it truly is: joyful, full of spirit, and so welcoming. Every time I come to Romagna, I feel good, and I'm sure it will be the same this time."

Of all the great songs in your repertoire, which one are you particularly attached to?

"I think about it every now and then, and I have a different title each time. Right now, I like to remember Se mi vuoi with Pino Daniele. A wonderful song, one of my most beloved. I consider Pino one of my teachers, and I always like to sing this song whenever I can."

After a tour celebrating the first 30 years of their career, a new album is on the way.

"I'm excited about it. It should arrive in October or maybe November. It will include the three singles that were released between last year and this year, plus some new songs. But first I want to focus on the emotions the stages will give me between now and the end of the tour."

On the Bertinoro stage she will be accompanied by an exceptional band.

"A band of five extraordinary musicians: Max Frignani on guitar, Piero Spitilli on bass, Fabrizio Morganti on drums, Marco Galeone on keyboards, and Titta Nesti, who contributes as a backing vocalist and multi-instrumentalist."