Franco Trincale: The Last Cantastorie of Italy

Franco Trincale, a 90-year-old cantastorie, has spent over six decades using music to comment on Italy's socio-political landscape. Born in 1939 in Militello in Val di Catania, Sicily, Trincale moved to Milan at the age of 20, where he began his career performing traditional Neapolitan songs. His work evolved into a unique form of "journalism in songs," addressing pressing social issues and historical events through his lyrics. Trincale's performances have included topics ranging from the 1970s terrorism and the Tangentopoli corruption scandal to the political climate under Silvio Berlusconi.

The Guardian

Trincale's transition into the role of cantastorie was driven by necessity after struggling to find stable work. He began performing outside factories, where he connected with workers and migrants, crafting songs that reflected their struggles and aspirations. Mauro Geraci, an anthropologist at the University of Messina, notes that cantastorie like Trincale emerged during a time when public opinion was forming, serving as a voice for the marginalized. Trincale's songs often addressed labor rights, true crime, and social injustices, making him a significant figure in Italy's cultural and political discourse.

The Guardian

Throughout his career, Trincale has tackled various contemporary issues through his music. He gained notoriety for his satirical songs about Berlusconi, which led the former prime minister to request the relocation of a corruption trial from Milan, citing Trincale's performances as creating a biased atmosphere. Despite facing challenges, including the decline of his wife's health, Trincale continues to perform, recently entertaining residents at a nursing home where he and his wife reside. His commitment to music remains strong, as he expresses a desire to hold workshops for individuals with Alzheimer’s, hoping to engage them through song.

The Guardian

Trincale's contributions to Italian culture have not gone unnoticed. In 2008, he received a medal from the city of Milan, and in 2018, a museum dedicated to his life and work opened in his hometown. His performances continue to resonate with audiences, as demonstrated by the success of his concerts, including a notable event for his 90th birthday. Trincale's ability to evoke emotions through music remains a testament to his enduring legacy as a cantastorie.

The Guardian

As Trincale reflects on his life, he remains hopeful about the potential impact of music on those suffering from Alzheimer’s, including his wife. He aims to observe how individuals respond to songs, indicating a desire to foster connection and joy through music. His dedication to both his craft and his wife exemplifies the profound bond they share, as he continues to sing for her, bringing moments of happiness and recognition to their lives.

The Guardian

• “He has a YouTube channel and shows off a video with 400,000 views: “I am proud to be able to sing and I will do so for as long as I can.” — Franco Trincale

The Guardian

• “Salvatore Di Stefano, a Sicilian cantastorie, used to say that when he saw something wrong, it was the time to write a song.” — Salvatore Di Stefano, Sicilian cantastorie

The Guardian

• “It’s wonderful to see a resident who is still able to give a concert in the afternoon,” — Laura Sartori, Nursing Home Manager

The Guardian

Through his music, Franco Trincale not only preserves the tradition of cantastorie but also highlights the ongoing struggles and triumphs of the human experience.

The Guardian