Italian Tour - April 2011

CANTARE IN L’ITALIA……….MOLTO SPECIALE!!

Is it the spine-tingling sensation of the first note sung in the hallowed precincts of Basilicas or Concert Halls? Is it the inspirational and indeed humbling feeling as one stands in awe beside the historical architectural monuments of ancient Rome? Is it the joy of viewing the typical countryside – the sparkling lakes, the cherry trees amassed with blossoms, the acres of vineyards, the tiny farms and the picture-postcard villages of rural Italy? Is it the excitement of performing with choirs from around the world at the unforgettable Verona Choral Festival? All of the above are treasured memories but perhaps the greatest of all is the visit to Casa Verdi – Rest Home for Retired Musicians, financed and built at the request of Verdi himself “for those old singers not favoured by fortune, or who, when they were young, did not possess the virtue of saving. The poor, dear companions of my lifetime! Believe me, that home is truly my most beautiful work.” Believe me also, this is where Choir Italia 2011 gave their ultimate performance. Was it the exquisite surrounds? Was it the strains of the glorious piano heard as we entered the courtyard? Was it being surrounded by the spirit of Verdi himself? Was it the sincerity and intense interest of the audience (one of whom had actually sung with Maria Callas)? Who knows but it was here that days, weeks and months of preparation came together in such magnificence for an unforgettable, final performance of a very special choir. Pride, satisfaction and sheer joy – my thanks and congratulations to you all.

Alexis FitzGerald