For the first time, the historic Franco Zeffirelli Foundation Hall in Florence, Italy, hosted a special evening dedicated to the music of renowned Georgian composer Davit Toradze. Organized by the Lekso Toradze Foundation, the event was supported by Georgia’s Ministry of Culture and the Embassy of Georgia in Italy, as part of a broader initiative to promote Georgian music internationally.

The concert, attended by Minister of Culture Tinatin Rukhadze during her official visit to Italy, aimed to popularize Toradze’s legacy and celebrate Georgian cultural identity on a prestigious global stage.

The evening featured a blend of Toradze’s classical works and iconic film scores, many of which are treasured as part of the Golden Fund of Georgian cinema. Performers included an impressive lineup of Georgian artists such as Giorgi Andghuladze, Keti Melua, Iano Alibegashvili, Nato Metonidze, Lela Mchedlidze, Levan Deisadze, Dimitri Sakandelidze, and the Meko Kavtaradze Youth Chapel. They were accompanied by the Scarlatti Orchestra under the baton of Nika Nikvashvili.

The ministry highlighted the key role of Giorgi Andghuladze, whose initiative made it possible to stage the concert at the Zeffirelli House Museum and to collaborate with the Domenico Scarlatti Orchestra free of charge.

Adding a visual element to the cultural showcase, an exhibition of traditional Georgian costumes and accessories was held in the foundation’s foyer, offering guests a broader glimpse into Georgia’s rich artistic heritage.

“It is very important how a country presents itself to the world,” said Minister Rukhadze. “In Florence, which is regarded as the Mecca of world art, we presented ourselves with high-level professional music, our best artistic heritage, excellent performers, musicians, and orchestra. This language needs no translation; it warms the heart and opens the country’s path to the world.”

The event drew a diverse audience, including local officials, prominent figures from the arts community, members of the Georgian diaspora, and other distinguished guests.