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Preliminary Round · 15 min
- Free choice program
Final · 25 min
- Free choice recital

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Visiting? A guitarist's guide to Camogli

Photo: Hayden Soloviev, CC BY 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Tucked into the curve of the Portofino peninsula on Italy's Riviera di Levante, the picturesque fishing village of Camogli hosts the annual Concorso Ruggero Chiesa, a prestigious event that draws classical guitarists to its vibrant shores. Known for its colourful houses lining the beach and its rich maritime history, Camogli offers a warm, authentic Ligurian setting for a week of musical immersion.

Getting there

The nearest major airport is Genoa Cristoforo Colombo (GOA), a short distance up the coast from Camogli. From the airport, a brief bus or taxi ride connects to Genoa Brignole or Genova Principe train stations, from which frequent regional trains offer a scenic journey south to Camogli in about 30-40 minutes. The train line hugs the Ligurian coastline, providing picturesque views of the sea and the rugged terrain. Once in Camogli, the town is easily walkable, making a car largely unnecessary.

Compare trains, buses & flights to Camogli on Omio →

Italy uses Type L/F sockets, so pack a travel adapter for your tuner and chargers.

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Where to stay

Camogli is a charming fishing village that has embraced its role as a tourist resort, offering a range of accommodation options. Base yourself near the promenade or in the narrow alleys of the old town for easy access to the competition venues, the beach, and local eateries. Many of the colourful houses that define Camogli's skyline now offer apartments or boutique hotel rooms, providing an authentic local experience. Booking ahead is advisable, especially during the competition.

What you'll hear

The Concorso Ruggero Chiesa, an annual competition named for the acclaimed classical guitarist and editor Ruggero Chiesa, offers a compelling showcase of emerging talent. While the specific repertoire for each round is detailed on the official website, the competition's design often highlights solo performance, culminating in a first prize that includes both cash and concert engagements, without a dedicated concerto round.

Just 17 kilometres west along the coast lies Genoa, the birthplace of Niccolò Paganini, the legendary violinist and guitarist. Though primarily known for his violin virtuosity, Paganini was also a prolific composer for and player of the guitar, famously calling it his 'constant companion'. A pilgrimage to Genoa's Palazzo Tursi, home to the Paganini Rooms within the Musei di Strada Nuova, reveals his violin 'Il Cannone' alongside two of his guitars and autograph scores, offering an intimate connection to his Ligurian heritage and his often-overlooked contributions to the guitar's repertoire.

The local table

As a classic Ligurian fishing village, Camogli excels in fresh seafood. Expect daily catches prepared simply and expertly, often grilled or baked with local herbs and the region's famed olive oil. Beyond the sea, Liguria is the home of pesto, so a dish of trofie or trenette al pesto is essential, its vibrant green sauce a testament to the region's basil. You will also find excellent focaccia, perfect for a light lunch or snack, often served plain or with local cheeses and cured meats; look for bakeries offering freshly baked focaccia throughout the day.

Fancy a guided taste? Food and wine tours in Camogli →

While you're there

Camogli Liguria, near Camogli — Photo: Hayden Soloviev, CC BY 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Between the competition rounds, Camogli offers a relaxed pace of life and plenty to explore. Stroll along the colourful waterfront, explore the narrow carrugi (alleys) of the old town, or relax on the pebble beach. The town is part of the Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino and the Portofino Marine Protected Area, offering opportunities for scenic coastal walks and boat trips to secluded coves. A day trip to Genoa is highly recommended for any guitarist: visit the Paganini Rooms in Palazzo Tursi, which house his famous 'Il Cannone' violin, two of his guitars, and original manuscripts. Explore Genoa's UNESCO-listed historic centre, one of Europe's largest, and soak in the atmosphere of the city that shaped the young Paganini. Further along the peninsula, the famed villages of Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure are easily accessible by ferry or bus, offering quintessential Ligurian charm and breathtaking views.

Tours, tickets and day trips in Camogli →

Need a place to stay?

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This map centers on Camogli in general, so the venue may be elsewhere in town. Check the competition's official website before booking.

More guitar events in Italy: Altamira Gorizia International Guitar Competition · Concorso Città di Fiuggi · Concorso Emilio Pujol · Concorso Fernando Sor · Concorso Internazionale Rovere d'Oro · Concorso Riviera Etrusca

Listing data is compiled from official sources and can change each edition. Always confirm dates, deadlines and requirements on the organizer's official website before applying or booking travel. Spotted an error? See our terms or let us know via the About page.

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