Canzoniere Grecanico Salentino (CGS), Italy’s longest-running traditional music ensemble, will mark its 50th anniversary with a U.S. tour in spring 2025. The tour, running through March and April, includes performances in Chicago, New York City, and appearances at both the Big Ears and Savannah Music Festivals.

Founded in 1975 by writer Rina Durante, CGS is internationally recognized for revitalizing the pizzica and taranta traditions of Southern Italy’s Salento region. The Lecce-based group blends ancient ritualistic rhythms with modern arrangements, reimagining the trance-like dances historically believed to cure the taranta spider’s bite.