Banda Musicale della Gendarmeria dello Stato della Città del Vaticano

The Banda Musicale del Corpo della Gendarmeria, conducted by Maestro Stefano Iannilli, will perform as part of the 68th edition of the Festival dei Due Mondi with a concert featuring selections from the ensemble’s extensive and distinguished repertoire. Founded in 2007 under the initiative of the then-governing authorities, the Band—under the direction of M° Stefano Iannilli—is overseen by Deputy Commissioner Mauro Colaiacomo, who is responsible for discipline and deployment. The current ensemble comprises approximately one hundred members, all conservatory-trained volunteers, some of whom hail from renowned Italian military bands. This ensemble carries forward the legacy and functions of the historic Band of the Pontifical Gendarmerie, originally established in 1851 and highly esteemed, having emerged from the Corps of the Papal Velites, where musical organization was pursued with great care.

Renowned for the richness of its repertoire and the excellence of its performances, the Band has played on numerous occasions in the presence of the Holy Father, including in Saint Peter’s Square and at the Pontifical Villas of Castel Gandolfo, notably during the 2009 celebration of Saint Michael the Archangel, Patron of the Gendarmerie. Their performances have consistently drawn admiration for their interpretative quality. It is worth emphasizing that the Band’s members are united by their musical talent, passion for fine music, and devotion to Christian values—an entirely voluntary commitment that stands as a noble expression of service and dedication.