Behind the name UniON – National University Orchestra there is an idea that breaks the traditional patterns of musical education: bringing together students from different universities, distant disciplines and parallel life paths, united only by a common passion, music. The project, conceived by Gianluca Scandola, was created to prevent young musicians who are already highly trained from abandoning their instruments during their university studies.
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A mosaic of universities and talents under 25
The group brings together around 60 young musicians under 25 selected throughout Italy: from the violin from Sapienza University of Rome, to the cello from the University of Bologna, up to the flute from the University of Salerno and the horn from the Polytechnic of Turin. A heterogeneous ensemble that transforms academic diversity into musical energy, overcoming geographical and disciplinary boundaries.
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The official debut in Pavia and a very young guide
The first major event is set for June 3, 2026 at the Fraschini Theater in Pavia, where the orchestra will make its debut under the direction of the young maestro Nicolò Jacopo Suppa. Also on stage is the violin soloist Giuseppe Gibboni, symbol of a generation that dialogues with already established excellence.
A project supported by institutions and major cultural entities
UniON was born with the support of leading institutional and cultural players: among these Intesa Sanpaolo, the Ministry of University and Research, the CRUI and the Lombardy Region. The role of the IULM University is also central, which provides spaces, residences and audiovisual skills for the creation of a docufilm signed by director Michele Mally.
Music as a social network and personal growth
The project is not only artistic but also educational and social: the aim is to keep musical practice alive during the university years, creating a national network of young people who continue to play despite their studies and commitments. The orchestra thus becomes a laboratory of inclusion, where different disciplines meet and are transformed into mutual listening and concrete collaboration.
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An experience open to the public and to the future
UniON concerts will also be accessible to younger audiences, with free admission for students and open rehearsals. A model designed to bring new generations closer to classical music and make the orchestra a stable point of reference in the Italian cultural panorama.
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