I remember years ago, you were so young then. Sometimes, I can’t help but wish, that you were small again. I’ve ached when you’ve faced heartaches, and saw, that as you grew, nothing broke your Spirit, instead it strengthened you. I’m filled with mixed emotions, as I hold back all the tears and, with much pride remember, back so many years. When I first saw you if only I’d have known, the years would feel like moments, after you had grown. You aren’t a child, though in my eyes, I guess you’ll always be, that young boy who changed my life, and means the world to me.
I stumbled across this touching poem that made me think of watching Ignazio, Piero and Gianluca growing up before our very eyes, and of us, their devoted fans. So many of us have said how finding Il Volo has changed our lives for the better. Deepening our love of bel canto, discovering new friendships,traveling adventures to concerts and for some, to their beautiful Italy, and being witness to three genuine young men who are making the world a better place just by being themselves, have been but a few of the joys these boys have given us.
I wish someone had documented on film little Gianluca standing in the town square singing at the age of 3. Or the first time Piero’s Nonno heard him sing and asked who that was? Or Ignazio banging away on his drums in his bedroom at a tender young age.
I love going back and looking at footage of our boys at young ages as their talents were beginning to be recognized. Daniela sent me this first video of Ignazio , back in 2007, performing at Marsala Impero Theater in a re-adaptation of Gen Rosso’s musical, STREETLIGHT. I found the second video filmed during the same performance. Ignazio knew his way around the spot light way back then. This boy was meantto be on a stage!
The next video is of Piero singing with Nonno Pietro in what looks like the town piazza. Note how Piero is directing the children’s choir right behind him. How adorable!
And finally we have Gianluca with his younger version of Il MareCalmo Della Sera. His voice was so strong and powerful way back then. Note the sweet quick smile he breaks into when the audience applauds. I remember in an interview with his parents they stated he was so shy when he was young, he would look upwards the entire song or turn and face the wall, so as not to have to look at people while he sang. Here he actually sneaks a few glances at the camera.
Yes, Gianluca, Piero and Ignazio…you will always be…the young boys who changed our lives and mean the world to us.
