Program

This is our daily program! Just select a date to see the events.

โฐ15:00 – 16:00

๐Ÿ“

Santa Maria Amalfitana

Ukulele 101 โ€“ Start Strumming with Us!

Never played the ukulele before? No worries โ€“ weโ€™ve got one to borrow! ๐ŸŽ
Join this free beginner-friendly class and learn the basics in just one hour, so you can start playing all around town. Simple chords, group rhythm, and good vibes: that’s all you need to dive into the Monopolele spirit with a smile and a strum! ๐Ÿ˜„๐ŸŽธ
Limited spots available โ€“ Come a few minutes early to pick your ukulele and jump into the fun.
Itโ€™s never too late (or too early) to fall in love with the ukulele. ๐Ÿ’›

โฐ16:00 – 18:30

๐Ÿ“

Piazza Garibaldi

Street Performance

The streets come alive with music as performers transform Piazza Garibaldi into a vibrant stage waiting to move to the nearby Porto Vecchio for the sunset concert. Starting our new street performance format, artists of all backgrounds are invited to share their talents with festival-goers and passersby alike. This lively atmosphere is the perfect lead-up to the evening’s main concert. Want to perform? Learn how to participate at our Play at the Fest page.โ€‹

โฐ18:30 – 19:30

๐Ÿ“

Porto vecchio

Ukuleles on the bay

Old Port will be filled with fantastic Swing. We look forward to seeing you all at sunset! This spectacular quartet (two ukuleles, a guitar, and a double bass), capable of dragging and delighting with the best swing repertoire and the most enchanting songs of the 1920s and ’30s, will get the Monopolele Festival off on the most charming and energetic foot, atmosphere, and mood possible.

โฐ20:30 – 22:30

๐Ÿ“

Piazza Palmieri

Larissa’s UniKE atmospheres

She is, without a doubt, one of Europe’s finest ukulelists. Rarefied almost magical atmospheres, with her very recognizable “percussive” style, Germany’s Larissa Leaves, on stage, creates musical enchantments and striking sound textures. Be astounded by his virtuosity never an end in itself but filled with musicality, magic and seduction. Not to be missed!

๐ŸŽต


Brass & Ukes Exotic Trip

Watch out, there’s dancing here! explosion of sounds, rhythms and colors mixed with the great energy that Cumbinate, the superb collective of Apulian musicians, succeeds that, on its way, will cross the surreal and circus-like verve of Adriano Bono. Ready, then, for an evening in which the sound of the ukulele will kiss with the warmth of the horns, the pulse of the bass, and the exoticism of the percussion, creating infectious frenzy and enthusiasm in the Monopoli sky.


The Great James Hill

In the elite ranks of the world’s most beloved and hailed Ukulelists, Canadian James Hill will bring to Monopoly his extraordinary virtuosity, sublime musicianship and hilarious sense of humor that characterize his performances. An evening that promises to be special, unpredictable, and will leave the audience with the sweet taste of an unforgettable event.

๐ŸŽต

โฐ23:00 – 01:00

๐Ÿ“

Caffรจ Mezzopieno

80s (but also 90s) disco party

Lorenzo Vignando aka Ukulollo is one of the great champions of the ukulele in Italy. Known and appreciated all over the world, Ukulollo is a true specialist of 80s and 90s covers. With a simple four-stringed instrument (the ukulele, in fact) he is able to recreate the fantastic atmospheres of those years, the most beautiful and danceable songs. And, just for the Monopolele Festival 2025, Lorenzo has built a special set: a disco night to which you are all invited to sing (and dance) to those unforgettable songs.

๐ŸŽต

โฐ09:00 – 10:00

๐Ÿ“

Santa Maria Amalfitana

Ukulele Warm Up

FREE Workshop courtesy of Uke Supply
Kickstart your festival day with a gentle warm-up session! Vincenzo Gioia guides you through basic technical exercises to loosen your fingers, rhythmic strumming patterns, and a simple ensemble arrangement. Perfect to quickly boost your playing comfort and ease into the day’s workshops.
Register here!

๐ŸŽต

โฐ10:00 – 11:00

๐Ÿ“

Santa Maria Amalfitana

The Magic Corpus

Discover the ukulele as a percussive instrument with Larissa Leaves! Explore diverse rhythms from around the globe and creatively integrate body percussion techniques to enrich your ukulele playing. This workshop also covers essential stage tips, useful gadgets, and practical tricks to enhance your performance. A magical journey into rhythm and sound awaits players of all levels.
Register here!

๐ŸŽต

โฐ11:00 – 12:00

๐Ÿ“

Santa Maria Amalfitana

The Magic of Roy Smeck

ย Roy Smeck was a ukulele virtuoso whose playful strumming and dazzling stage tricks amazed audiences throughout the 1920s and โ€™30s. In this workshop, learn Smeckโ€™s signature techniques and crowd-pleasing moves to add flair and fun to your ukulele playing. Best suited for intermediate and advanced players, but all are welcome!
Register here!

โฐ12:00 – 13:00

๐Ÿ“

Chiesa di San Pietro

Letโ€™s Dance Your Ukulele!

ย Combine music and movement in this exciting workshop designed to enhance your stage presence. Telma Pereira guides participants through rhythmic exercises and dynamic dance movements inspired by Portuguese rhythms (Vira, Chula, Malhรฃo), Brazilian Samba and Bossa, and Angolan Morna. Suitable for all skill levels, musicians will learn to synchronize their playing with expressive dance, creating vibrant and engaging performances.
Register here!

๐ŸŽต

โฐ12:00 – 13:00

๐Ÿ“

Santa Maria Amalfitana

Ukulele 101 – Start Strumming With Us

Never played the ukulele before? No worries โ€“ weโ€™ve got one to borrow! ๐ŸŽ
Join this free beginner-friendly class and learn the basics in just one hour, so you can start playing all around town. Simple chords, group rhythm, and good vibes: that’s all you need to dive into the Monopolele spirit with a smile and a strum! ๐Ÿ˜„๐ŸŽธ
Limited spots available โ€“ Come a few minutes early to pick your ukulele and jump into the fun.
Itโ€™s never too late (or too early) to fall in love with the ukulele. ๐Ÿ’›

โฐ14:00 – 15:00

๐Ÿ“

Santa Maria Amalfitana

Play One Uke, Sound Like Two!

Learn an innovative technique developed by Ukulollo, allowing you to simultaneously play melody, chords, and even sing! Discover varying levels of difficulty, from solo accompaniment to enhanced melody lines while singing. Immediate, impressive results await, and you’ll quickly apply this versatile method to your favorite songs.
Register here!

๐ŸŽต

โฐ15:00 – 16:00

๐Ÿ“

Santa Maria Amalfitana

Ukulele Ensemble Workshop

Dive into ensemble playing and discover the joy of performing music collaboratively! Using an arrangement of the Beatles’ classic “Eleanor Rigby,” you’ll explore ensemble arranging, effective rehearsal strategies, and different playing techniquesโ€”strumming, melody picking, fingerpicking, and comping. Ideal for ukulele players of all levels eager to create beautiful, harmonious music together.
Register here!

๐ŸŽต

โฐ16:00 – 17:00

๐Ÿ“

Santa Maria Amalfitana

Swing, Ukulele, Swing

Itโ€™s swing time in Ukulele Land! East coast, west coast, all around the town, swing is happening. Learn sweet-sounding swing chords that are easy to play and sound fabulous. Regardless of prior experience, James will have you swinging your first Jazz tune in five minutes, taking your strumming to new heights. Intermediate players especially welcome!
Register here!

๐ŸŽต

โฐ17:00 – 18:30

๐Ÿ“

Largo Garibaldi

Street Performance

Monopolele brings music to the streets. This year, our traditional open-mic evolves into Street Performances, turning Monopoliโ€™s squares into vibrant stages. Join us in Largo Garibaldi where artists will showcase their talent in an open and spontaneous setting. Want to play? Find out how at Play at the Fest. Come enjoy the music or bring your instrument and join the fun.

โฐ19:00 – 20:00

๐Ÿ“

Piazza Vittorio Emanuele

Raphael Gualazzi’s Special Concert

This yearโ€™s edition of Monopolele features a truly special guest: renowned Italian pianist and singer-songwriter Raphaelย Gualazzi. Known for his vibrant blend of jazz, soul, and pop,ย Gualazziย will charm the audience with his passionate, rhythmic melodies and captivating performance style. A passionate ukulele enthusiast himself, he will present original hits alongside sophisticated interpretations of jazz classics, cinematic themes, and some gems from his latest album,ย Dreams. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable evening filled with music, magic, and emotion under the stars of Monopoli!

๐ŸŽต

โฐ21:00 – 23:00

๐Ÿ“

Piazza Palmieri

The swinging elegance of Charlotte Pelgen

Come and listen to the original songs by german ukulele player and singer Charlotte Pelgen and let yourself be enchanted by the delightful melodies, swinging rhythm and intricate lyrics! You will have already seen her play golden swing era tunes together with her band โ€œBad Mouse Orchestraโ€ on Friday on the bay, and now she is inviting you into her own musical world!

๐ŸŽต

Vignola & Loccisano Mediterranean Project

An extraordinary project created by the Monopolele Festival. A ukulele and a beating guitar conversing. The sound of the south, the Mediterranean, the parched earth, the energy and heat of the sun. Italy’s greatest Ukulele virtuoso, Lucania’s Danilo Vignola, and Italy’s greatest Beat Guitar virtuoso, Calabria’s Francesco Loccisano together In the land of Puglia. The strings will vibrate, the percussion will pulsate, and a pouring of irrepressible energy will be released throughout Palmieri Square and beyond. We at the Monopolele Festival are looking forward to it!


Taimane the UKE Star!

Straight from Hawaii, the great Taimane and his Trio. Acclaimed worldwide, millions of followers and fans always raving, Taimane is a true Ukulele pop star. His concerts are engaging performances, intoxicated with sensuality and extraordinary musicality. His ukulelistic style blends different techniques but you will be amazed by his tightrope walking rhythmic skills and performance abilities. Mandatory, at the end, Standing Ovation!

๐ŸŽต

โฐ23:30 – 01:30

๐Ÿ“

Caffรจ Mezzopieno

Saturday Night Jam

One of the most exciting moments of Monopolele. Musicians of all levels come together for an open, spontaneous jam session. Whether youโ€™re a seasoned player or just want to join in, this is your chance to be part of the music. Everyone is welcome. Bring your instrument and join the groove. Want to lead the jam? Apply at Play at the Fest.

โฐ09:00 – 10:00

๐Ÿ“

Santa Maria Amalfitana

The Luthier’s Breakfast

(Free entry, coffee and pastries offered)
Start your Sunday with coffee, pastries, and expert insights! Join esteemed luthier Marco Todeschini as he answers your questions about ukulele craftsmanship. A relaxed, informative morning session open to everyoneโ€”no question is too simple or too complex!
Register here!

๐ŸŽต

โฐ10:00 – 11:00

๐Ÿ“

Santa Maria Amalfitana

C Jam Blues

Explore the distinctive sound of the Low G ukulele through Duke Ellington’s classic “C Jam Blues.” Beginning with the intriguing tritone interval, you’ll delve into chords, extensions, and practical exercises, opening doors to rhythmic and melodic improvisation. Perfect for creative players eager to enhance their improvisational skills and musical expression.
Register here!

๐ŸŽต

โฐ11:00 – 12:00

๐Ÿ“

Santa Maria Amalfitana

Swing Your Ukulele!

Step into the roaring 1920s, the ukuleleโ€™s golden age, and swing along with Charlotte Pelgen. Learn iconic songs from this vibrant era while mastering authentic left- and right-hand techniques that truly make your ukulele swing! Perfect for anyone familiar with basic ukulele chords, this workshop will add timeless charm to your musical repertoire.

๐ŸŽต

โฐ12:00 – 13:30

๐Ÿ“

Chiesa di San Pietro

Strade aperte: Concert & Instrument Building Workshop

Free entry – no registration required
Enjoy original music performed with percussion, mandolin, and ukulele, enriched with improvisations and engaging performances. Following the concert, join a creative session on building acoustic and mechanical instruments, exploring the physics and techniques behind their creation and use.

๐ŸŽต

โฐ13:30 – 15:00

๐Ÿ“

Chiesa di San Pietro

UkePizza!

FREE (courtesy of Calico). No registration required. Pizza will be offered!
Join Calico for a delightful and interactive workshop! Learn a special song that you’ll perform later during the busker session or the evening jam. Pizza will be offered, making it an engaging, tasty, and social way to connect through musicโ€”open to everyone who loves to play and sing!

๐ŸŽต

โฐ16:00 – 17:30

๐Ÿ“

Piazza Vittorio Emanuele

Street Performance

After the fantastic concert by Raphael Gualazzi Monopolele brings music back in the lively Piazza Vittorio for an afternoon of spontaneous performances and shared melodies. Want to play? Find out how at Play at the Fest. Come enjoy live music in one of Monopoliโ€™s most iconic spots.

โฐ16:00 – 17:00

๐Ÿ“

Santa Maria Amalfitana

Ukulele 101 – Start Strumming with us!

Never played the ukulele before? No worries โ€“ weโ€™ve got one for you to borrow! ๐ŸŽ
Join this free beginner-friendly class and learn the basics in just one hour, so you can start playing all around town. Simple chords, group rhythm, and good vibes: that’s all you need to dive into the Monopolele spirit with a smile and a strum! ๐Ÿ˜„๐ŸŽธ Limited spots available โ€“ Come a few minutes early to pick your ukulele and jump into the fun.
Itโ€™s never too late (or too early) to fall in love with the ukulele but for this edition this is your last chance! ๐Ÿ’›

โฐ17:00 – 18:00

๐Ÿ“

Piazza Garibaldi

The Ukulele: A Journey Through History, Music, and Craftsmanship

Born in the late 19th century in Hawaii from Portuguese influences, the ukulele has evolved into a globally beloved instrument. In this special lecture-concert,ย Giovanni Albiniโ€”founder of the worldโ€™s first university-level ukulele courseโ€”andย Francesco Verginelli, an esteemed luthier, will explore its fascinating history, musical versatility, and intricate craftsmanship. A unique opportunity to dive into the ukuleleโ€™s rich legacy through live music and expert insights.
The event will be held at the Biblioteca Rendella and audience will be accepted up to the maximum seating capacity of the venue.

๐ŸŽต

โฐ17:00 – 18:00

๐Ÿ“

Santa Maria Amalfitana

Ukulele for Kids: Play, Learn, and Strum!

Free entry – No registration required
This playful workshop introduces children to the ukulele through interactive games and engaging activities. Kids will learn rhythm, basic chords, and even a traditional Portuguese song, combining musical skills with language exploration. A joyful, hands-on musical experience, accessible to all young beginners.

๐ŸŽต

โฐ18:00 – 19:30

๐Ÿ“

Largo Castello

Final Street Performance

As Monopolele draws to a close, join us for the final street performance in front of Monopoli’s historic castle. This closing act brings together artists for impromptu performances, celebrating the festival’s spirit of spontaneity and camaraderie. It’s a last chance to experience the magic of street music before the grand finale concert and the right moment to learn more about italian “aperitivo”. Interested in taking part? Find participation details on our Play at the Fest page.

โฐ20:30 – 22:30

๐Ÿ“

Piazza Palmieri

Vinicius Vivas. The new ukulele hero

A Brazilian, nursed as a child with the sound of the Portuguese cavaquino, the harmonies of the bossanova guitar and the splendid compositions of Villa Lobos, Vinicious Vivas, in a short time, has become one of the best known and most appreciated international ukulelists. Gifted with a precise and delicate touch, capable of weaving sophisticated but also popular music frameworks, he has toured the world and carried out a very fruitful teaching activity. He is the rising star of the world ukulele, and at the Monopolele Festival he will be among the great headliners.

๐ŸŽต

Vivas + Anglana Monopolele Special Project

Music is, first of all, dialogue; it is inclusion. In this special project created by the Monopolele Festival: Vinicious Vivas’ ukulele will dialogue with a beautiful voice, that of singer and writer Saba Anglana. Brazil and Somalia, lands dense with history and humanity, will weave stories in music, travel along different and poignant melodic lines, a sonic alchemy full of color and life that will warm up the Monopoli night


Monopolitans for a night

Take Europe’s most revolutionary and ironic Ukulele Orchestra: the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain! select six of their most creative musicians, put them in the center of Palmieri Square with their ukuleles and…from this moment, anything can happen!!! Ready for the funniest, most humorous, bouncy evening of the Festival? You are all invited! Those who don’t come are sad!

โฐ23:00 – 01:00

๐Ÿ“

Caffรจ Mezzopieno

Final Jam

Monopolele closes with an unforgettable night of music. A structured jam from 23:00 to 00:30 leads into an unplugged session, perfect for late-night melodies. Everyone is welcome. Grab your instrument and be part of the festivalโ€™s final notes. Want to lead the jam? Apply at Play at the Fest.

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