We are proud to share that on 29 April 2026, the Chiquinha Gonzaga Youth Orchestra, a Brazilian orchestra composed entirely of young women from Rio de Janeiro, was warmly welcomed by Pope Leo XIV during the General Audience in Rome.
The tour, “Conexão Vaticano,” marks the orchestra’s debut in Italy and forms part of the celebrations for the bicentenary of diplomatic relations between Brazil and the Holy See. During its time in Rome, the orchestra performed at Sapienza University and took part in the General Audience at the Vatican, in a programme that also featured the special participation of Flor Gil.
Founded in 2021 to increase the presence of girls and young women in orchestral music, the Chiquinha Gonzaga Youth Orchestra brings together 52 musicians aged 13 to 21 and carries the name of Brazil’s first female conductor, a symbol of freedom, artistic excellence and female leadership.
At Fusion Communications, we are delighted to have supported this important occasion as press office in Italy, helping give visibility to an inspiring story of music, culture and connection between Brazil, Italy and the Vatican.