PIF, A MODERN TRADITION
CASTELFIDARDO, FROM A SMALL COMMUNITY TO A CITY THANKS TO MUSIC.
The history of Castelfidardo has ancient roots. Founded by the Picentes before the Roman occupation of the 3rd and 2nd centuries B.C., it went through barbarian invasions, witnessed the struggles between Guelphs and Ghibellines, was dominated by the Malatesta Lords and controlled by the Papal State.
The 17th century was characterized by a political and economic decay due to the increasing influence that the administration of the Holy House of Loreto had on the castle territory.
The 18th century represented, instead, the real beginning of the modern era: booming economy, which was mainly agricultural, and a remarkable, unprecedented urban development. While not granting acclaimed liberties, the temporal power of the Pope still brought a certain order and an greater welfare to the population of Castelfidardo, which exceeded 5,000 inhabitants at the beginning of the 19th century.
In the mid-nineteenth century, thanks to the industriousness and ingenuity of Paolo Soprani, the emerging activity of manufacturing accordions transformed the economy of Castelfidardo and other nearby towns, which was until then mainly agricultural, into a real industrial economy. The local community benefited from this for more than a century and the city expanded considerably, reaching the current number of about 19,000 residents. In 1988, Castelfidardo obtained the title of “city”. Over time, a cutting-edge industry has developed in addition to the more traditional industry, with world-the establishment of leading companies in the field of electronics, musical instruments, production of objects and design.
Now in its 49th edition, PIF – International Accordion Award – is an international event imbued with a great spirit of innovation.
This event has built its success gradually over time. Let’s review some of its milestones.
The beginnings of the International Accordionist Exhibition in 1963, fifty-eight years ago, the introduction of foreign participants in 1975 and the 1st National Accordionist Championship in 1979, which became World Championship in 1981. Known as the International Accordion Festival from 1989 to 2013, it was called P.I.F. for the first time in 2014, at the edition with Roberto Lucanero as artistic director.
This brief survey makes us proud of the work done and projects us into the future with great enthusiasm. Edition after edition, we are becoming increasingly aware that a solid experience and the love for music and the accordion are fundamental ingredients required to keep evolving and growing in the name of top quality.
