And here is the report of the concert in Matera, lived by Crystal Dawn, member of Flight Crew.
Ciao Flight Crew!
I have arrived in Japan after a 30 hour travel day by my wristwatch.
I had little sleep— only 3 hours after the end of the Matera concert and my departure from Matera to make all my connection (bus, two trains, and two planes) prior to my arrival in Japan where I am visiting my son and meeting my one year old granddaughter Fiorina. Now for the highly desired concert details……
The signs we were holding up had written on them “Grazie Ragazzi” with a heart. We were instructed by Matera fan club members to raise the papers and wave them when Piero entered the stage for their first song. The guys were clearly touched from this gesture.
This Cava de Sole concert was another beautiful setting in Matera with a lovely sunset as the backdrop prior to the beginning. The sound quality much better for me here than at the PBS concert.
My front row seat was directly center. I was very close and when Piero sat on the edge of the stage near the end of the concert. I was the first to reach his side with Antonia a few paces behind me. I was able to hear the power of his voice as it entered the microphone. Quite a thrill. I was also first to reach Gianluca when he stood on the speakers (he did not sit). Such a beautiful smile as he acknowledged fans below him.
The banter near the middle of the concert when Gianluca acknowledged the inclusion of several songs in English and any Americans present— I had my hand raised and he pointed to me and asked where I was from and I said, “Oregon.”
Security was very heavy at both concerts, with local police, military, and hired security people—not necessarily staff. I do not know if this is usual, or new. But when fans approached the stage at the Sunday concert security pushed in and quickly pushed us back. Several times I felt it was a bit over the top as we were being very respectful of the guys.
The guys delivered an amazing concert. More relaxed than the PBS concert. Ignazio wore a black shirt and no jacket. Piero white shirt and jacket, and Gianluca in all black—always very stylish.
This concert was also fairly intimate with only about 500 seats—I overheard someone state that number and looking around I would agree. The evening warm, the lighting and sound breathtaking.
When the drums beat for the opening of “Musica Che Resta” I felt the vibration throughout my body. Alessandro Quarta delivered a passionate accompaniment. It is a sublime mixture of the guys and Alessandro. I was very happy to learn of his partnership in this tour.
This Musica concert was more in keeping with my concert expectations. I do feel that as this was their first one, that as they continue throughout Italia that they will be even more relaxed and have more fun on stage with each other and their audiences. By the time they reach America they will have a finely honed mixture of songs and banter.
My one GREAT disappointment was not having the opportunity to enjoy a meet and greet with the guys. Yes, prior to the PBS sound check I was able snatch a quick photo with only Gianluca and Piero—but no conversation in the few seconds exchange as they literally ran past me. Matera was considered a “Zero” concert by the promoters (why I do not understand). In any case, I had made great effort to attend. I extended my travels by two weeks to attend this concert—which gifted me with the extra days to visit their home villages (Roseto degli Abruzzi, Montepagano, Naro, Marsala (eating at Nina’s pizzeria), and Bologna). Prior to my travels in Italia, I was praying in 10 churches (along the Camino de Santiago during my 800 kilometers pilgrimage walk) for for IL VOLO’s continued success, well-being, prosperity, and joy. I traveled for 100 days with often an IL VOLO focus. To literally come to the end of my trip and not achieve that goal of spending a few minutes chatting with guys was honestly depressing for me. I was literally soooo close to them physically for the two concerts, yet also so far away with regards to meaningful conversation.
The guys always deliver a spectacular professional performance, are engaging with their audience, appreciate their band and orchestra members, and acknowledge their management. They are humble, sweet, gorgeous young men.
I was very honored to be able to attend both concerts in the historic Matera. It is now a cherished memory of a lifetime.
Once again, thank you so much Crystal Dawn for your report.
I have to correct a number.
You say there were 500 people, newspapers say 1,500.
I feel satisfied with what you saw, and I think you could interact with the guys.
You also did a beautiful spiritual journey.
It is true, you did not have the opportunity to exchange a few words with Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca, but you must believe me, do you know how many would have liked to have been in your place, attached them to the stage where Piero was sitting and close to Gian?
Thanks again for this report.
Our other crew member also sent me her impressions, here they are:
It was really extraordinary, I don’t know what to tell you what I liked most. For me the solo of Ignazio and also that of Piero and then the duet between all is three. But I didn’t make the video.
It was really nice when Piero said … “Now we have to sing a song in English for our fans who came from the United States.” I don’t know if it is possible but I always fall in love with them a little more every time I go there I see them in concert . It was really an exciting night.
I also thank you for your impressions.
Of course you were also in magnificent places, front row, you witnessed a beautiful concert during a beautiful sunset in an immortal city.
What can I say …… jealousy …. no, we are happy for you !!!!
Daniela
Credit to owners of all photos.