dicembre, 2026
Live Jazz in Rome December 18: A Night with Henry Mancini

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Dettagli evento
Looking for live jazz in Rome on Friday, December 18, 2026? Spend an unforgettable evening with A NIGHT WITH HENRY MANCINI, a live jazz tribute to one of the
Dettagli evento
Looking for live jazz in Rome on Friday, December 18, 2026?
Spend an unforgettable evening with A NIGHT WITH HENRY MANCINI, a live jazz tribute to one of the most celebrated composers of film and television music.
From the timeless romance of Moon River to the playful elegance of The Pink Panther and the driving rhythm of Peter Gunn, four accomplished musicians bring Mancini’s musical world to life through specially arranged interpretations.
At Elegance Cafè Jazz Club in Rome’s Ostiense district, this concert becomes part of a complete evening of gourmet dining, Prohibition-inspired cocktails and live music in an intimate setting.
Friday, December 18, 2026 · Rome, Italy
- Doors open: 6:00 PM
- Dinner: From 7:00 PM
- Live jazz concert: 9:30 PM
- Drink + Concert: €30 per person, including a reserved table and an eligible drink
- Dinner + Concert: Two à la carte courses per person, with the concert included; price depends on your menu choices
RESERVE YOUR TABLE FOR DECEMBER 18
A Night with Henry Mancini: iconic film music, reimagined through jazz
Some melodies have the power to take us straight back to a film scene, a character or a particular moment.
The opening notes of Moon River instantly recall the romantic world of Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The unmistakable theme from The Pink Panther brings a sense of humour and sophistication, while Peter Gunn introduces an entirely different energy, built around its striking rhythmic identity.
Few composers moved between these contrasting musical worlds as naturally as Henry Mancini.
His music has an enduring connection with jazz, combining memorable melodies, rich harmonies and a remarkable sense of atmosphere.
A Night with Henry Mancini explores that legacy through the musical personalities of pianist Riccardo Fassi, vocalist Mimma Pisto, bassist Steve Cantarano and drummer Pietro Iodice.
Rather than simply reproducing the original soundtracks, the quartet performs interpretations built around arrangements specially created by Fassi and the musicians.
The project gives these familiar themes a fresh musical perspective, allowing the piano, keyboards, voice, bass and drums to explore new colours and expressive possibilities.
The result is a jazz concert that combines nostalgia, elegance, rhythmic excitement and the pleasure of rediscovering melodies that have become part of popular culture.
From Moon River to The Pink Panther: the concert repertoire
The programme celebrates Henry Mancini’s remarkable contribution to film and television music.
Featured repertoire:
- The Pink Panther Theme
- Moon River
- Breakfast at Tiffany’s
- Peter Gunn
- Two for the Road
- Dreamsville
- It Had Better Be Tonight
- Loss of Love
- Whistling Away the Dark
- Baby Elephant Walk
- Slow Hot Wind
The contrasting personalities of these compositions make the evening especially engaging.
Moon River and Dreamsville reveal Mancini’s gift for expressive, intimate melodies. The Pink Panther and Peter Gunn bring a distinctive rhythmic character, while Two for the Road and Whistling Away the Dark evoke further shades of cinematic storytelling.
The quartet approaches each piece as musical material to be explored, rather than a soundtrack to be recreated note for note.
Whether you already love Mancini’s compositions or are discovering them through jazz for the first time, the concert offers a new way of listening to these unforgettable themes.
Meet the musicians
Riccardo Fassi – Piano and Keyboards
Pianist and arranger Riccardo Fassi leads the project, shaping the quartet’s interpretation of Mancini’s compositions. Piano and keyboards provide a versatile harmonic and tonal foundation, from the more delicate passages to the pieces driven by rhythm.
Mimma Pisto – Vocals

Vocalist Mimma Pisto brings a lyrical and expressive dimension to the ensemble. Her presence gives particular importance to the song tradition within Mancini’s music, where melody and storytelling are closely connected.
Steve Cantarano – Bass
Bassist Steve Cantarano provides the rhythmic and harmonic foundation of the group, supporting the arrangements and interacting with the piano and drums throughout the programme.
Pietro Iodice – Drums
Drummer Pietro Iodice completes the quartet, bringing rhythmic energy, sensitivity and dynamic contrast to the performance.
Together, the four musicians explore the unique meeting point between cinematic composition and jazz interpretation.
Dinner and live jazz in Rome: the Elegance Cafè experience
An evening inspired by the golden age of film music deserves a setting to match.
Elegance Cafè Jazz Club combines an intimate live music venue with a refined restaurant and cocktail bar in Rome’s Ostiense neighbourhood, near Piramide.
The restaurant’s culinary approach draws inspiration from the Creole and Cajun traditions of the American South, offering a contemporary interpretation of flavours closely associated with the cultural roots of jazz.
The bar completes the experience with cocktails inspired by the speakeasies of America’s Prohibition era.
For Friday, December 18, guests can choose between two options.
Dinner + Concert
Enjoy at least two à la carte courses per person, with the live jazz performance included. The final price depends on the dishes selected.
Drink + Concert – €30 per person
Includes concert admission, a reserved table and one drink from the eligible selection.
With dinner available from 7:00 PM and the concert starting at 9:30 PM, you can enjoy a complete evening in one welcoming location.
Discover more about our restaurant with live music in Rome.
Things to do in Rome on Friday, December 18, 2026
If you’re visiting Rome in the days leading up to Christmas and looking for something memorable to do on Friday evening, a live jazz concert offers a distinctive alternative to the usual nightlife.
A Night with Henry Mancini is especially appealing because its music crosses generations.
Cinema lovers will recognise themes from Breakfast at Tiffany’s and The Pink Panther. Jazz enthusiasts can discover how the musicians transform familiar compositions through their own arrangements.
Couples looking for a romantic evening in Rome can enjoy dinner in an intimate setting before sharing the atmosphere of a live performance.
The event also offers an appealing way to experience a different side of the city, beyond its famous monuments and busy tourist streets.
Located in the Ostiense district, Elegance Cafè welcomes both visitors and residents who wish to enjoy quality live jazz and contemporary dining in the same evening.
Whether you’re planning a date night, celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for great music during your stay in Rome, this is an opportunity to experience Mancini’s melodies in a new setting.
Event details and reservations
Event: A Night with Henry Mancini
Date: Friday, December 18, 2026
Venue: Elegance Cafè Jazz Club
Address: Via Francesco Carletti, 5 – 00154 Rome, Italy
Area: Ostiense / Piramide
Schedule
- Doors open: 6:00 PM
- Dinner service: From 7:00 PM
- Live jazz: 9:30 PM
Booking options
- Drink + Concert: €30 per person, including admission, a table and an eligible drink.
- Dinner + Concert: A minimum of two à la carte courses per person, with the concert included. Prices depend on menu choices.
Online reservations:
https://www.elegancecafe.it/en/book-a-table/
Information:
Experience the melodies of Henry Mancini through a fresh jazz interpretation, from the romance of Moon River to the unmistakable rhythm of Peter Gunn.
BOOK YOUR TABLE FOR FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18
Discover more live jazz concerts in Rome at Elegance Cafè Jazz Club.
FAQ
Are there vegetarian/vegan options on the menu?
Yes, vegetarian dishes are available, and vegan options can be provided upon request.
Can I have dinner during the jazz concert?
Yes, each evening offers either a dinner + concert or a drink + concert option. We recommend booking in advance to secure your table.
Can I purchase a gift card?
Yes, gift cards are available for all scheduled events, except New Year’s Eve and Valentine’s Day.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, tables are limited to ensure an intimate and high-quality experience.
How can I stay updated on upcoming events?
You can subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on the best jazz concerts in Rome and upcoming events at Elegance Cafè Jazz Club.
Is the venue accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, Elegance Cafè is accessible to guests with reduced mobility. Please mention any specific needs when making your reservation.
What time does the concert start?
The concert starts at 9:30 PM, but the aperitivo is available from 6:00 PM and dinner from 7:00 PM.
