Though I've been to the Teatro La Fenice on many occasions I've yet to attend their annual New Year's Day concert in person. It's on my bucket list and, who knows, I may just do that come January 1, 2012. However, I always look forward to watching the live televised version whenever I'm in Italy on January 1st. This morning will be no exception. It's a tradition I've come to love, kind of like that of an Angelino watching the Rose Parade, only instead of sitting in the grand stands or along a parade route you're enveloped in one of the most beautiful opera houses in the world, listening to the sweet sounds and tradition of Giuseppe Verdi's "Va' Pensiero" from Nabucco and the raising of one's glass to "Libiam ne’ lieti calici" from La Traviata. Here is a sample from last year's concert to give my readers an idea of what it's like to be there...now off to my comfy couch, a warm cup of cafe latte in one hand and the remote in the other. Buon Anno Nuovo a tutti!
I just finished watching this year's concert on television, and I'm still blotting the tears from my eyes. What can I say? An incredible orchestra, excellent singing and some of the most tender music ever written touches me deeply! Getting tickets to next year's concert is going to be a 2011 priority. As for my friends faraway, next time you're in Venice make sure you visit Teatro La Fenice either during a preformance or just simply walking through. No guides are necessary, it's open to the public, and well worth a visit. Ciao, Marie
ReplyDeleteWow, being a musician that would be awesome to attend....
ReplyDeleteWhat a great tradition. It seems that no matter how bad the news is each day, there are still worthy human endeavors to celebrate.
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