The boys of Il Volo grew up in a culture that takes singing seriously. That can also be said of their families. Thus, each of them started learning the technique of singing – vowel shaping, breath support, projection, phrasing, etc. – from classically trained people either a grandfather with the same background and/or professional voice teacher. When you learn the art of singing you need something to put that craft and art to work– something to sing and if you are going to do the work right you want the best. That comes in the form of art songs and arias from opera or operetta. This is true here in the USA as well as Italy and all over Europe. In fact, this “Bel Canto” concept is taught all over the world. It is the standard of quality singing.
Here is a very rough idea of these types of music:
Art songis a single song (3 to 7 min, maybe) that conveys the story or feeling of the composer. It stands on its own. “Caruso” is such an art song.
Also and even more so, “En Aranjuez con tu amor” is a very dramatic art song that Gianluca sings with a solo violin as the taunt. This was written by Joaquin Rodrigo back in the 1930’s
Opera is taking a full-length story and acting it completely through music where the actors sing everything. When they are describing action it sometimes the music is called a recitative(reciting the story) but then when they want to share feeling especially love the music gets to be a very beautiful melody and great harmonies and it is called an aria. Even Broadway musicals use that form. The boys have sung“Tonight”and “Maria”from West Side Story. They have sung “Night and Day”, “Memories” and others that come from a musical – each of them can be called an “aria”
Piero took the brave step (and he was a triumph) by doing “ E Lucevan le Stelle” from Toscaof Puccini. Bravo.
The opera world attracts the greatest composers:
Giuseppe Verdi: La Traviata; Aida; Rigoletto and many others
Giacomo Puccini: Madame Butterfly; La Boheme; Turandot; Tosca
Gaetano Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor; L’elisir d’ amore
A few that are not on the list for the boys so far:
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Marriage of Figaro; Magic Flute; Don Giovani
Richard Wagner:The flying Dutchman; The Meistersinger
Operetta(very loose definition) is a story being staged where the action parts are actually spoken (thus recitative) but the arias are fully sung as in opera.
We all know the story of how each of our guys progressed on his own, entered into a voice competition and became the first, second and third place winners. They each had experience from youth learning these kinds of music. Even from the first USA concerts they were singing arias such as “No Puede Ser” .
In the Spanish culture there is a type of work called a “Zarzuela” sort of an operetta.
It uses dramatic dance, some spoken parts and arias that are very dramatic. Let’s face it our modern soap operas pale in comparison. Love and sex and death and vendettas all over the place. Everyone has a lot of fun. Extreme drama on steroids. “Ne Puede Ser” is an aria from a zarzuella called : “La Tabernera del Puerto” written by Pablo Sorozabal. Piero loves this song and he comes out on the stage and dies each night for us. Hard work . But he does it so well. He also sings so well. ( I know, bad joke).
2016 and Il Volo in June – my thoughts.
The guys have just finished a concert tour that was very long with almost 100 concerts all over most of the world. They have given wonderful concerts 98% of the time. However, there have been a couple of times when the concerts were too close together and the boys did not get the kind of rest they needed. That usually ends up with a concert that is “good” but not great. I doubt the guys would ever give a bad concert. They are just that good and they will not allow it. But when they are tired and a little out of voice from the heavy schedule like they were in Russia this year then it shows a bit. Those of you who have read my stuff going back 4 years know it is one of my pet peeves when the producers push the guys to do a lot of concerts in short order. When they came to Vegas this year they had traveled by bus from Phoenix through the night and did not have much sleep. It was amazing to me that they still gave one of the best concerts I have ever heard them give. Still I wish the producers would pace it better.
Now they have had a rest and they are preparing to do this THREE TENORSCONCERT. I could not be happier. They are back to basics – working with their voice teachers and voice coach. They are taking on some of the masterpieces of opera repertoire by the greatest composers. Information I have heard says they are singing:
“Nessun Dorma” an aria from “Turandot” by Pucini – one of the most famous songs of any sort in the world. You may not know the title but you will know the melody. Pavarotti and Domingo are famous for this song. They are also doing an aria that is sometimes called “Brindisi” but better known as “ Libiamo” or also known as “ the drinking song “ (hey, it’s a party) from La Traviata by the great Verdi. Through all of this they get to work with Placido Domingo, a mentor of theirs, again. Again, Bravo !
From my standpoint, thinking of the care and nurture of the guys voices which are so precious to all of us, this is the kind of work they should do at least once a year. “Back to basics” I am excited about this program and will buy the cd’s and DVD’s and whatever they come up with.Frankly, I wish they would take this on the road to the USA.
27 thoughts on “Myron shares thoughts on the end of a long tour”
I told Myron that my knowledge of opera was minimal and asked for some help here. As usual, our music super hero, “Myron the Music Master” came through. Now, at least he has given us some basic understanding. I am thrilled to know that this is our guys next logical step. Bring on even more beauty Boys, we’re ready too!
Thank you Myron for this information. You always explain things I wonder about.
I can not wait for the Florence Concert and wish the CD would hit the stores earlier then September.
Thank you Myron and Marie, I really enjoy these posts. It’s always a learning experience reading them. When the Three Tenors, Pavoratti, Domingo, and Carreras toured in the USA in I believe the year 1999 or 2000, I had the privilege of attending the concert. It was at the Cleveland Browns Stadium in my home town. It was not a sell out, can’t imagine why. Maybe a smaller venue indoors would have been better. That was a Magical Notte for me and I am expecting the one coming up to be the same. The anticipation is killing me. My best wishes to the boys. Break a leg.
Rose Marie Paliobeis
Thank you Myron for giving us all this background information. I was a big fan of the Three Tenors and especially Luciano Pavarotti. I am sure it will be a magical night in Florence and can’t wait to see the concert on tv and get the CD and DVD. So happy for those people who can attend the concert. Hopefully Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca will get some much needed rest in August.
Wonderful article! Thank you Myron! You always put it in terms and ways we can understand. To read your interpretations only makes their music more beautiful if that is even possible. I am always amazed their elegant voices can keep giving and giving with back to back concerts and the tight schedule they keep. This upcoming concert will be spectacular!
Thank you so much Myron for once again, explaining things so we can understand them. We are so lucky to have you. Yes I agree with you, that the concerts on this world tour have been too close together. Sometimes, not a lot, Piero or Ignazio, when hitting those very high notes, their voices shows the strain. They need to rest up and we all hope and pray to have these incredible young men performing for us for a very long time. It was a pleasure meeting you at the Palms restaurant. Going there on 7/6 – 7/10. Staying at BALLYS this time.
Thank you so much Myron !! I learn so much about music and voice from you !! The boys are going to be singing with their idol Placido Domingo (especially Piero !!) and they will will be EXTRAORDINARY together Friday night !!! I am SO excited for them !! I can’t wait for the CD/DVD to be released !!! I’m a little confused about the date the PBS Special will be aired. I heard both September and Christmas ? Does anyone know when ?
Yes, I had heard that PBS was filming the concert for broadcast in the US. But I have not idea when it will be shown or if each PBS station will show it at different times. Does anyone have any more information on when we can see it on PBS?
The DVD and a CD is supposed to be released on September 30. Whether that is globally or in Europe I do not know. PBS hasn’t said anything that I know of when they will air it. My guess is they will wait for their membership drives around Christmas but I could be completely wrong about that.
You are probably right! Many PBS stations purchase this on an individual basis. If you want to see this ,everybody call you local station and request it! I have my local station on full alert and the program manager is sick to death of me and will get it just to get rid of me! (’til I want something else! LOL!)
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Thanks Myron, Since I was seated at your table in Las Vegas, I feel I know you better now and appreciate your musical knowledge. I can’t imagine why the boys managers put them through such a rigorous schedule. Youth is one thing, but burn out is something else. I also am waiting impatiently for the CD and DVD. Joanie G
Thanks so much Myron and Marie, your information is invaluable! I grew up in small town Arkansas, but we had a super music teacher. She tried to teach us about all sorts of music! We had a whole series of lessons on opera, CARMEN, to be specific! I loved music from the beginning! Years later, I actually attended a performance of Carmen! What a thrill! I can barely contain my excitement about the up coming concert…your comments, Myron, have answered many questions in my 84 year old mind! God bless you! Keep up the good work! Grazie! Dot in Texas!♡♡♡
Thank you Myron for putting your knowledge into everyday language, for us. I too am eagerly awaiting the CD and or DVD of this concert. I adore Nessun Dorma and was lucky enough to hear Pavarotti sing this in Modena and a free concert years ago on Miami/Dania beach. I know the boys will put their “all” into this concert especially as Italy is into the final rounds of the soccer tournament !!!
Oh my, Myron!!! Thankyou so much for all this wonderful info! I know we all have worried that this World Tour seemed to be pushing the limit for our precious young men’s voices!!! They do need some time off!!! Your expertise & explanations teach us much! Continue to help us with our musical education! This Friday Concert will be marvelous!!!
Thanks Myron for the helpful explanation of music the guys are singing. I am sure the concert in Florence will be spectacular and I am really eager to see it. I hope in the future they help plan their concert schedules so that they get sufficient rest. Better for them and for the audience that they are in full voice and not endangering over stressing their voices.
You all have been very kind in response to this article. Thank you very much. When you think about it, most “20 something years” old guys want to be singing rock or other types and this takes a lot of self discipline. I am so proud of these guys.
Myron as usual your special. My question is doesn’t Mr. Torpedine have a say as to how the guys are being pushed when they are on tour like this especially this tour & because even though they had spaces between the days & time to rest they are still being pushed to extend themselves daily. Mr. Torpedine is their manager can’t he tell these promoters or whoever is pushing them to back off a bit to give them breathng time & rest more. I have seen a few pictures of Ignazio particularly & one sitting at the edge of is chair somewhere it lookd like an airport by himself & he looked as if wanted to cry. Piero has some pretty pensive moments also
Thank you so much Myron for your easy-to-understand
explanations of the songs and the way they are to be sung.
Classical music is a type I have embraced only for the last
three years so I know I have a lot to learn yet. Your
interpretation of the background, composers and singers
of the “Bel Canto” music have been a great help to my
understanding IL VOLO’s music. It is amazing that
these young men started so early singing this style of
music and were willing to spread it over the world. I listen
to them every day. My only regret is that I didn’t discover
the guys until 2014. My prayer for you is that God will
continue to bless your work with all your musical knowledge.
Thank you so much.
Myron, this is the first time I read something you wrote. Everything was very well written and I believe expresses the love we have for Il Volo. They are one of a kind. I saw them twice in one month on the east coast. It was my first time seeing them live. My best friend took me both times. I told her she didn’t need to do that but she said I have not seen that look on your face since your sister died. When Gianluca came out and started “Volare”, you went off into another world. When ever I’m down I put their music on and I’m transported to their beautiful Italy!!! My family is from Abruzzi and my best friend is from Sicily. After she saw them she got to share them with her sisters and now we all look forward to our next concert!!! The remember their mom going around the house singing these songs. I remember them from Italian classes!! My love and prayers always cover them and their entourage!!! I love you guys and thank you for bringing so much joy and beauty in my life through your music.
Dee Mattern
Myron, you are a godsend to all of us who love to hear the more technical details of Il Volo’s beautiful singing. I can’t thank you enough. I think we all agree that their concert schedule often puts too much strain on their voices. I too love to see them back with their vocal coaches. With the type music they sing and the power these pieces demand, proper vocal training and nurturing cannot be emphasized enough. I can’t wait to see the Domingo concert and look forward to the new CD! I also look forward to your thoughts about the concert. Thanks for all you do!
Yes, Myron, thank you so much for your well-written opinions and insight into just what it takes for the Guys to do what they do. It’s no small task, and I think we all admire their dedication to their art. They realize that they all have been given extraordinary voices, and they have done nothing but improve for over seven years now. They know they are blessed, and in return, they bless US every time we hear them. It’s a beautiful, beautiful thing!
Thanks so much Myron for the great post! Informative as always and I agree with you that “management” has pushed the guys too hard !!
I’ve mentioned before the old saying about” killing the goose that laid the golden egg!” Of course, they are in the process of establishing their career so many events are probably desirable but their health and voices should come first. As they get older they will be able to set terms and do more to manage their own careers.
Thank you Myron for the very welcome information and update on our boys. Like you, I am so looking forward to hear Gianluca, Ignazio and Piero’s version of them singing the famous aria Nssun Dorma and the well known drinking song from La Traviata.
I told Myron that my knowledge of opera was minimal and asked for some help here. As usual, our music super hero, “Myron the Music Master” came through. Now, at least he has given us some basic understanding. I am thrilled to know that this is our guys next logical step. Bring on even more beauty Boys, we’re ready too!
Thanks a million, Myron!
Thank you Myron for this information. You always explain things I wonder about.
I can not wait for the Florence Concert and wish the CD would hit the stores earlier then September.
Thank you Myron and Marie, I really enjoy these posts. It’s always a learning experience reading them. When the Three Tenors, Pavoratti, Domingo, and Carreras toured in the USA in I believe the year 1999 or 2000, I had the privilege of attending the concert. It was at the Cleveland Browns Stadium in my home town. It was not a sell out, can’t imagine why. Maybe a smaller venue indoors would have been better. That was a Magical Notte for me and I am expecting the one coming up to be the same. The anticipation is killing me. My best wishes to the boys. Break a leg.
Rose Marie Paliobeis
Thank you Myron for giving us all this background information. I was a big fan of the Three Tenors and especially Luciano Pavarotti. I am sure it will be a magical night in Florence and can’t wait to see the concert on tv and get the CD and DVD. So happy for those people who can attend the concert. Hopefully Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca will get some much needed rest in August.
Wonderful article! Thank you Myron! You always put it in terms and ways we can understand. To read your interpretations only makes their music more beautiful if that is even possible. I am always amazed their elegant voices can keep giving and giving with back to back concerts and the tight schedule they keep. This upcoming concert will be spectacular!
Bravo, Myron. I love everything you write. Ypur expertise and insight is amazing. THANK YOU!
Thank you so much Myron for once again, explaining things so we can understand them. We are so lucky to have you. Yes I agree with you, that the concerts on this world tour have been too close together. Sometimes, not a lot, Piero or Ignazio, when hitting those very high notes, their voices shows the strain. They need to rest up and we all hope and pray to have these incredible young men performing for us for a very long time. It was a pleasure meeting you at the Palms restaurant. Going there on 7/6 – 7/10. Staying at BALLYS this time.
That sounds great but I wish I could be there to meet up with you again. I am out of town during that part of the month.
Have a great stay.
Thank you so much Myron !! I learn so much about music and voice from you !! The boys are going to be singing with their idol Placido Domingo (especially Piero !!) and they will will be EXTRAORDINARY together Friday night !!! I am SO excited for them !! I can’t wait for the CD/DVD to be released !!! I’m a little confused about the date the PBS Special will be aired. I heard both September and Christmas ? Does anyone know when ?
Yes, I had heard that PBS was filming the concert for broadcast in the US. But I have not idea when it will be shown or if each PBS station will show it at different times. Does anyone have any more information on when we can see it on PBS?
The DVD and a CD is supposed to be released on September 30. Whether that is globally or in Europe I do not know. PBS hasn’t said anything that I know of when they will air it. My guess is they will wait for their membership drives around Christmas but I could be completely wrong about that.
You are probably right! Many PBS stations purchase this on an individual basis. If you want to see this ,everybody call you local station and request it! I have my local station on full alert and the program manager is sick to death of me and will get it just to get rid of me! (’til I want something else! LOL!)
Thanks Myron, Since I was seated at your table in Las Vegas, I feel I know you better now and appreciate your musical knowledge. I can’t imagine why the boys managers put them through such a rigorous schedule. Youth is one thing, but burn out is something else. I also am waiting impatiently for the CD and DVD. Joanie G
Thanks so much Myron and Marie, your information is invaluable! I grew up in small town Arkansas, but we had a super music teacher. She tried to teach us about all sorts of music! We had a whole series of lessons on opera, CARMEN, to be specific! I loved music from the beginning! Years later, I actually attended a performance of Carmen! What a thrill! I can barely contain my excitement about the up coming concert…your comments, Myron, have answered many questions in my 84 year old mind! God bless you! Keep up the good work! Grazie! Dot in Texas!♡♡♡
Thank you Myron for putting your knowledge into everyday language, for us. I too am eagerly awaiting the CD and or DVD of this concert. I adore Nessun Dorma and was lucky enough to hear Pavarotti sing this in Modena and a free concert years ago on Miami/Dania beach. I know the boys will put their “all” into this concert especially as Italy is into the final rounds of the soccer tournament !!!
Oh my, Myron!!! Thankyou so much for all this wonderful info! I know we all have worried that this World Tour seemed to be pushing the limit for our precious young men’s voices!!! They do need some time off!!! Your expertise & explanations teach us much! Continue to help us with our musical education! This Friday Concert will be marvelous!!!
Thanks Myron for the helpful explanation of music the guys are singing. I am sure the concert in Florence will be spectacular and I am really eager to see it. I hope in the future they help plan their concert schedules so that they get sufficient rest. Better for them and for the audience that they are in full voice and not endangering over stressing their voices.
You all have been very kind in response to this article. Thank you very much. When you think about it, most “20 something years” old guys want to be singing rock or other types and this takes a lot of self discipline. I am so proud of these guys.
So am I!! Thank you so much for taking the time to explain this. I knew they worked extremely hard, but now I have a whole new appreciation for them!!
Myron as usual your special. My question is doesn’t Mr. Torpedine have a say as to how the guys are being pushed when they are on tour like this especially this tour & because even though they had spaces between the days & time to rest they are still being pushed to extend themselves daily. Mr. Torpedine is their manager can’t he tell these promoters or whoever is pushing them to back off a bit to give them breathng time & rest more. I have seen a few pictures of Ignazio particularly & one sitting at the edge of is chair somewhere it lookd like an airport by himself & he looked as if wanted to cry. Piero has some pretty pensive moments also
Thank you so much Myron for your easy-to-understand
explanations of the songs and the way they are to be sung.
Classical music is a type I have embraced only for the last
three years so I know I have a lot to learn yet. Your
interpretation of the background, composers and singers
of the “Bel Canto” music have been a great help to my
understanding IL VOLO’s music. It is amazing that
these young men started so early singing this style of
music and were willing to spread it over the world. I listen
to them every day. My only regret is that I didn’t discover
the guys until 2014. My prayer for you is that God will
continue to bless your work with all your musical knowledge.
Thank you so much.
Myron, this is the first time I read something you wrote. Everything was very well written and I believe expresses the love we have for Il Volo. They are one of a kind. I saw them twice in one month on the east coast. It was my first time seeing them live. My best friend took me both times. I told her she didn’t need to do that but she said I have not seen that look on your face since your sister died. When Gianluca came out and started “Volare”, you went off into another world. When ever I’m down I put their music on and I’m transported to their beautiful Italy!!! My family is from Abruzzi and my best friend is from Sicily. After she saw them she got to share them with her sisters and now we all look forward to our next concert!!! The remember their mom going around the house singing these songs. I remember them from Italian classes!! My love and prayers always cover them and their entourage!!! I love you guys and thank you for bringing so much joy and beauty in my life through your music.
Dee Mattern
Myron, you are a godsend to all of us who love to hear the more technical details of Il Volo’s beautiful singing. I can’t thank you enough. I think we all agree that their concert schedule often puts too much strain on their voices. I too love to see them back with their vocal coaches. With the type music they sing and the power these pieces demand, proper vocal training and nurturing cannot be emphasized enough. I can’t wait to see the Domingo concert and look forward to the new CD! I also look forward to your thoughts about the concert. Thanks for all you do!
Myron, I can’t thank you enough for all you do for our Boys and all the information you share with us about their voices and bel canto music.
Yes, Myron, thank you so much for your well-written opinions and insight into just what it takes for the Guys to do what they do. It’s no small task, and I think we all admire their dedication to their art. They realize that they all have been given extraordinary voices, and they have done nothing but improve for over seven years now. They know they are blessed, and in return, they bless US every time we hear them. It’s a beautiful, beautiful thing!
Thanks so much Myron for the great post! Informative as always and I agree with you that “management” has pushed the guys too hard !!
I’ve mentioned before the old saying about” killing the goose that laid the golden egg!” Of course, they are in the process of establishing their career so many events are probably desirable but their health and voices should come first. As they get older they will be able to set terms and do more to manage their own careers.
Thank you Myron for the very welcome information and update on our boys. Like you, I am so looking forward to hear Gianluca, Ignazio and Piero’s version of them singing the famous aria Nssun Dorma and the well known drinking song from La Traviata.