The song "Becoming a Tree" triumphed at the 67th edition of Zecchino d’Oro, the renowned children’s music festival broadcast live on Rai 1 and hosted by artistic director Carlo Conti. The song delicately emphasizes the importance of growing at one’s own pace and was awarded during the grand finale at the Antoniano stage in Bologna.
Written by Rebecca Pecoriello, Nicola Marotta, and Luca Argentero, with music by Pecoriello, Stefano Francioni, and Marotta, the song was performed by 9-year-old Anna Sole from Voltana (RA), accompanied by the Piccolo Coro dell’Antoniano directed by Sabrina Simoni. The lyrics encourage children not to rush into growing up, highlighting the joy of daily discoveries that gradually lead to blossoming "like a magnificent tree."
Second place went to "For a Piece of Land", performed by 6-year-old Beatrice and 4-year-old Gabriele, while "Grandma Rock", sung by 10-year-old Martina from Trapani, secured third place.
Founded in 1959, Zecchino d’Oro is a one-of-a-kind competition dedicated to celebrating music for children. With songs written by esteemed authors, performed by young talents, and accompanied by the renowned Piccolo Coro dell’Antoniano, the festival has always promoted educational and universal values through the magic of music.
This year’s winner was determined by a panel of notable entertainment figures – including Caterina Balivo, Bianca Guaccero, and Elisabetta Ferracini – alongside an official children’s jury. Their votes were combined with those from the Galassia dell’Antoniano choirs, representing around 2,000 children from across Italy. The finale also saw the return of Topo Gigio, a beloved icon who had not been part of the program's regular cast since 2006.
To watch and listen to "Becoming a Tree," the song’s lyrics and official video are available on the Zecchino d’Oro website: zecchinodoro.org.
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