Orchestra Italiana The Italian Bing Band

The Orchestra Italiana Bruxelles (OIB) is a musical ensemble founded between late 2013 and early 2014 on the initiative of Maestro Angelo Gregorio. Its mission is to celebrate and promote the repertoire of the golden age of Italian music (from the 1930s to the 1970s), bringing back to life iconic melodies such as Nel blu dipinto di blu, Parole Parole, Buonasera Signorina, Estate, and Voglio Vivere Così, reinterpreted with modern arrangements and a jazz touch.

Beyond music, the OIB is a cultural and artistic project that aims to promote Italian culture and language through its performances, offering an engaging experience to an international audience. The orchestra is a bridge between cultures, composed not only of Italian musicians but also artists of various nationalities, including French, Belgian, and Uruguayan musicians. This diversity enriches the ensemble’s repertoire and musical interpretations.

Mission and Objectives

The OIB stands out for its approach that highlights cultural diversity and musical innovation, with the following goals:

 • Merging the personalities and musical influences of its members into a unique and cohesive interpretation.

 • Rediscovering and rearranging forgotten Italian songs, making them accessible to new generations.

 • Offering enthusiasts of that era the opportunity to revisit timeless classics in a fresh and modern way.

 • Introducing Italian music to international audiences, bringing the sounds of the golden age to a wider public.

 • Promoting cultural diplomacy through music, aligning with the European strategy for intercultural dialogue.

History and Activities

After its official establishment in February 2014, the OIB debuted with self-produced events aimed at introducing itself to the Italian public in Brussels, such as the concert Un Dimanche à l’Italienne. In 2015, the orchestra was invited to perform for the Permanent Representation of Italy to the EU, and in 2016, it represented Italy at the 70th anniversary of the Italy-Belgium labor migration agreements. Since then, it has solidified its presence in institutional and cultural events, becoming a reference point for the Italian community in Belgium and regularly performing at the prestigious Grand Bal d’Italie, organized by Com.It.Es.

Vision

The Orchestra Italiana Bruxelles aims to become the reference for Italian music in Belgium and, leveraging Brussels’ strategic location, expand its influence across Europe. Its artistic journey aligns with the European cultural diplomacy strategy, which seeks to promote cultural diversity beyond national borders and strengthen the European identity through music.

With its unique blend of tradition, innovation, and multiculturalism, the OIB represents not only a tribute to great Italian music but also a model of artistic and cultural exchange without borders.