And the European Tour got off to a great start, with the first sold-out date in London!!
The very warm audience appreciated every song and our Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca were in excellent form.
But let’s get to the facts:
.
6 October LONDON: Theater Royal Drury Lane
Beautiful theater from the photos posted by Gianluca and his mother.
A moment during the soundcheck
This is a short video made and broadcast by LONDON ONE RADIO where you see the fans at the soundcheck and you hear a brief moment of Il Volo singing the beautiful THE SOUND OF SILENCE, it is a magnificent song, new to the Il Volo repertoire, let’s hope someone recorded it in full during the concert!!
But let’s get to the evening of the concert.
My friend Katerina Tsaousi flew from Greece for the concert and recorded some beautiful videos that I propose to you. Thanks Katerina!! 😘
ECSTASY OF GOLD
CLICK HERE to view the video
SE
CLICK HERE to view the video
WHO WANTS TO LIVE FOREVER
CLICK HERE to view the video
The repertoire has been revisited with the addition of new interpretations made by Il Volo, such as the beautiful SOUND OF SILENCE, but also by having Italian songs that everyone knows again listened to such as:
FUNICULÌ FUNICULÀ
or: O SOLE MIO
AMOR VIDA DE MI VIDA (Piero)
CAPOLAVORO
CARUSO
GRANDE AMORE
The final
Gianluca’s words: Thank you London, for the incredible energy and warmth! There’s no better way to kick off our European tour. You’ve set the bar high, and we can’t wait to share more unforgettable nights with all of you!
This video about the London concert is beautiful.
And the Italia 1 news broadcast an excerpt, here it is:
CLICK HERE to view the broadcast
This beautiful article published by Repubblica makes us understand that for our guys nothing is taken for granted……….but London was also a success!
CLICK HERE to view the Repubblica article
Il Volo also conquers London: “This city was a challenge, we were welcomed with a full house”
The trio opened the tour from the English capital, featuring some evergreens by Queen and classics by Leonard Cohen, Simon & Garfunkel, Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. A success
LONDON – A challenge won for Il Volo which opened its new European tour in the English capital and sold out. “We were very hesitant in starting from here – Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca told us a few hours before going on stage – due to the enormous cultural offer that the Capital puts on the table every day of the week and, more generally, because the England is a difficult market for any artist. We thought that perhaps it would have been better to include London a little later, doing other cities first, other concerts and arriving here better prepared, warmer. Instead, we chose to trust our promoter and, shortly after the announcement of the European tour, London was among the first stops to be sold out.”
The confirmation of how the trio was eagerly awaited at the Theater Royal Drury Lane, one of the oldest stages in the city dating back to 1812, came not only from the number of tickets sold, over two thousand, but from the queue of fans that had been created hours before the opening of the doors, with many Italians queuing, English people also arriving from the rest of the country, British people from Wales, Venezuelans, Brazilians and other nationalities, all belonging to those small and large foreign communities that feed the melting pot of the Capital, ready to support, applaud and enjoy Bel Canto for a night.
Il Volo is prepared for all this, thanks to its fifteen years of experience around the world; for this reason that every concert, including the one in London, tries to think of it in a unique way. Hence the choice to include in the setlist, for the performance at Royal Drury Lane, some of Queen’s evergreens which are always a pleasure to listen to immersed in English atmospheres: from the show must go on to Who wants to live forever, moving on to other musical classics timeless, like Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen and, for the first time, The Sound of Silence by Simon & Garfunkel. All expertly mixed with songs by Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley or soundtracks from musicals of the caliber of The Phantom of the Opera.
There is also ample space for their most successful songs, old and new such as Capolavoro, Ad Astra, Opera, to others taken from their album tribute to the maestro Ennio Morricone, up to the inevitable Grande Amore per la grande finale anticipated by classics of Italian popular culture , hummed by everyone, Italians and foreigners, complete with hands raised towards the sky.
Each piece was a river of applause, but the peak was recorded when their voice went high, very high, as with Piero Barone in the interpretation of Amor, vida de mi vida which, among the numerous performances, that of Plácido Domingo remains still the most memorable today. For Piero there was a standing ovation, as well as a heartfelt applause of appreciation from Sir Cliff Richard, present in the audience, one of the older generation English singers with over 21 million albums sold.
“Having a rather substantial career behind us, having duetted with many international stars and held concerts on all continents, we can truly draw from an almost infinite repertoire – they add – from classical to pop, to contemporary, to even more dated things, but without never distort our nature, which remains that of being ambassadors of Bel canto in the world. That’s how people got to know us and that’s what they expect from us when they come to our concerts. However, this does not mean repeating ourselves constantly even in the years to come, but rather proposing songs that we like to sing first of all, that we have made our own and that with them we have reached a level of confidence such as to be able to insert them into lineup, with the certainty that they can also be appreciated by our fans. This is how we think about tours, including the new European one which starts today from London.”
A performance, this one in the English capital, which represented a unicum in Il Volo’s career. It is the third time they have performed in London (the first at the Palladium in 2016 and then at the Royal Albert Hall in 2017), but the first post-Brexit, post-Covid, to pave the way for an international tour, and also because Ignazio Boschetto went up for the first time on stage wearing the ring on his finger, fresh from his marriage to Michelle Bertolini and also fresh from his round figure, 30 years celebrated a few days earlier, on October 4th. “We also wanted to dedicate this special evening to Barbara (Vitali, historic collaborator of the trio who passed away at the age of 54 in July due to a car accident, ed.) because she has been with us since the beginning of our career. She was our second mother and for her, London was a special place…”.
Leaving the London drizzle behind, Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca flew to Bratislava for the second stage of the European tour, which will be followed by Budapest, Prague, Barcelona, Dusseldorf, Berlin, Frankfurt, Athens, Zurich, with a date in the Emirates in Dubai on October 25th to return to the Old Continent first in Lodz and then Lisbon, Paris, Sofia in view of the grand finale on November 6th in Madrid. The Italian tour in the sports halls will start in January with stops in Milan, Treviso, Florence, Bologna, Turin, Rome, Eboli, Bari, Messina.
“In the meantime, we also have to think about the next musical project. Because this is the real challenge that we have been pursuing for fifteen years. Put like this, it seems like a condemnation, but it isn’t at all, given that we are neither the first nor the only ones to live like this. It is the reality that unites all those who work in the artistic field. Except that for us it has been valid since we were little more than kids and, we hope, that it will be valid for a long time to come”, the three finally tell us, from the dressing rooms on the third floor of the Theater Royal Drury Lane, while the fans began to take their seats in the velvety seats red, including those who, without knowing it and pleasantly surprised once seated, purchased seats in the Royal Balcony, the one reserved for members of the royal family.
8 October: Bratislava
The concert is in the beautiful and modern Tipos Arena.
The very large audience cheered fervently and admired our three treasures with affection.
What a crackling start.
There aren’t many full videos, but several nice mixes from the evening.
CLICK HERE to view the video
In Bratislava the song SE was performed with the cello accompaniment of JODOK, here is a short piece.
Another the very nice songs mix, with the start of Gianluca in a splendid THE MUSIC OF THE NIGHT ❤️
CLICK HERE to view the video
Magnificent: THE SOUND OF SILENCE by Simon & Garfunkel ❤️
Gianluca in the audience while they sing O Sole Mio.
The enthusiastic applause of the people.
Some nice photos of the evening
Il Volo with Jodok and the concert organizers of Koncertpromo who published these words!
Thank you, Il Volo for an incredible first show in Bratislava! Tomorrow, let’s take over Budapest at the @mvm_dome and show how Italian Belcanto conquers the hearts of the Hungarian audience. Love you guys! ❤️
❤️Thank you for inviting @jodokcello to perform with you on these beautiful shows!❤️
CLICK HERE to view the video
The words written by the hotel that hosted them in Bratislava were also very nice:
This week we had the honor of welcoming other exceptional guests to our hotel – the famous Il Volo trio! 🎶✨
Their talent and energy filled not only the winter stadium but also our entire facility, and we are so proud that they chose us. ❤️ Thank you for allowing us to be part of their journey and we wish them much success in their future performances!
Some news that you will have already read, but which I have not given here.
Il Volo will be in Chile in November (8 or 9) for the TELETHON charity broadcast.
Here’s how the news was broken:
“Finally – and from Europe – the Italian trio “Il Volo” will also arrive in our country. Ignazio Boschetto, Gianluca Ginoble and Piero Barone are the singers behind this successful operatic pop group. With almost 15 years of experience and millions of views, come to Chile for the third time to present their greatest hits and their popular covers of ballads in Spanish such as “Abrázame”, by Julio Iglesias, “La unconditional”, by Luis Miguel and “So in love”, by Ricardo Montaner.”
And we end with a bit of gossip, Claudia, Gianluca’s girlfriend, was also present at the London concert, here she is in the photo next to mother Eleonora.
Wow, it was a really exciting start to the tour, great turnout and love from the people who were really excited to listen to Il Volo!!
Of course, the voices of Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca are beautiful and their professionalism is a guarantee, their concerts do not disappoint.
But there are many dates and many concerts still to be done, the journey is long and will certainly be equally full of successes, we have no doubt!!
See you again soon, next stop Budapest!
Daniela 🤗
Credit to owners of all photos and videos.
Thank you Daniella. I’m still on cloud 9 from seeing the boys at the beautiful Theatre Royal in London. They were amazing, as ever, and promised to come back soon. (Seven years since they were last here )
June, I’m so happy that Il Volo came to London again and I’m even happier that you got to see them. Yes, seven years were a long time and the guys were hesitant, but I think they dispelled all doubts thanks to the love of you fans.
Thank you Daniela and Pat for the great post, pictures and videos about the start of this European tour. I leave in 4 days for Berlin and will be taking my son, daughter-in-law, 13 year old granddaughter and 10 year old grandson to the concert. I now have an idea of their possible set list and I know it will be fabulous!
These beautiful young men never disappoint.
Ich werde auch in Berlin dabei sein. Ich freue mich sehr darauf
Ina, ich freue mich so, dass du nach Berlin gehst, wer weiß, vielleicht triffst du ja auch Janet. Ich warte auch auf deine Meinung zum Konzert!!
Ina, I’m so happy you’re going to Berlin, who knows maybe you’ll meet Janet too. I’m also waiting for your opinion on the concert!!
Ich werde einen Anstecker mit dem Logo von IL Volo Flight Crew tragen.
You’re most welcome, Janet! Have a great time at the concert! 😊
Thank you for pictures and videos of Il volo ! They are fantastic and one day I will see them live in concert in the USA!
Hramilka, certainly, when they get to you, and it won’t be long now, you will be able to enjoy their skill!!
Janet, I have already told you that I am extremely happy that you and part of your big family are going to Berlin, I am sure that you will be enthusiastic and we are waiting for your opinion. If you’ve noticed there is a setlist of basic songs but there are also variations from area to area!!
Thank you Daniela and Pat for this delightful article about the boys and their first two European concerts! What a fabulous start! I thoroughly enjoyed the interview piece from The Repubblica. Every accolade they receive is so very well deserved! Sold out shows and thousands on their feet must make them feel incredible! Just makes me eager to see another concert myself…..cannot wait until they arrive in the US again!
Excited to hear about more concerts…Budapest and Prague are such beautiful cities, hopefully they get a little time to site see!
Praying for all the people in FloridA and NC with damage and loss due to Helene and Milton. I’m beyond grateful that my family and friends all faired very well…we were all so lucky! Also praying for the end to war and peace to all the people in Ukraine, Lebonan,Israel and Gaza especially.🙏🏻☮️
Sending you both many hugs and lots of love and gratitude for all you do for us, Carol💖💖💖🎶🎼🎤🎵🩷🤗😘🇺🇸
Very well said Carol – much love.
You’re welcome, Carol. Thanks for the hugs and love! Sending more back to you! 😘🤗
Carol, a truly fantastic start and I believe that the sequel will be like this too, what a great satisfaction for Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca.
I’m glad your family and friends fared well during the hurricanes!
We all join you Carol in prayers that the wars will end soon, although it is always late anyway, unfortunately!
Thank you to my dear friends Daniela and Katerina for covering every special moment of these concerts. Special thanks to Pat for adding the special touches to the post too. I wish the guys good luck on the remaining dates. We are waiting in the USA for news of cities and dates so we can start planning for 2025. I’ve been to 5 concerts in Italy and Greece but traveling to Europe is a little more difficult at my age than it used to be. Hope to meet some Crew members at the American concerts!
You’re so welcome, Rose Marie! I’m anxiously awaiting the US dates. I haven’t been to one of their concerts since the first one in 2016 in Chicago. First surgeries and then COVID stopped me from going thru the years. I am MORE ready than ever to see them in person again and to meet more Flight Crew members!! 😁
Me too Pat and Rose Marie…..what fun if we could finally meet a concert here! I loved to meet all of you!🩷👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
RosaMarie, I’m sure that when the US tour dates are announced there will be great enthusiasm.
However, I still hope to be able to see you again here, perhaps in Verona next year!!😘
Ich werde in Verona auch wieder dabei sein. Im Mai war ich bei zwei Konzerten in der Arena und war sehr begeistert
Es wäre schön, uns in Verona zu treffen, Ina.
It would be nice to meet in Verona, Ina.
Ja, das wäre sehr schön!
Das wäre wirklich so schön!
Terrific photos and videos, and another great article translated for us, Daniela and Pat. I believe that the Theater Royal was featured in the My Fair Lady movie. And Bratislava, one of my new favorite cities–who would expect that they have such a huge arena–and it looked like it was sold out or nearly! They are well on their way to another extremely successful tour.
Judi, I don’t know if it was sold out in Bratislava but the effect was really great, I also didn’t expect such a big arena there. The tour started with great success!
Yes! I am speechless! When they come to USA, I hope they come close to where I live !!!!
Bratislava a Praha ,byla jsem tam … Nepopsatelný večer . Doufám že je příští rok zase uvidím … Bratislava nebyla vyprodaná ale lidí bylo strašně moc 🥰 psaly že Praha je vyprodáná a nebyla ….ale myslím že kluci můžou být velmi spokojení ♥️ Uvidíme
Jestli se vrátí….doufám že nebudeme čekat moc dlouho,i když příští rok je za dveřmi…
Andrea, jak milé vědět, že jsi byla v Bratislavě i v Praze a že se ti tam líbilo!!
Díky za aktualizace. Lidé byli neuvěřitelní a myslím, že všechna láska dorazila k našim chlapcům se štěstím.
Andrea, how nice to know that you were both in Bratislava and Prague and that you liked them!!
Thanks for the updates. The people were incredible and I think all the love reached our boys with happiness.
It’s always my pleasure, Judi! 😄
Thank you, once again, Daniela and Pat for bringing us the concerts we would all love to attend. They are, if possible, getting better all the time.
I wonder if Michelle is on tour with them, or at home in Venezuela or Italy, anxiously awaiting the return of her beloved, Ignazio. Hugs and love to all, Dol. 💕💕💕
I bet she is there ! Wonderful pictures too! One of these days I’ll get to see a concert in USA. Just have to find out when and where!
You’re very welcome, Dolores! 😊
Dolores, they are very serious professionals and I think that before their concerts they work really hard, all this is evident, as is their skill and also their humility, I think these are all the ingredients that make us love them so much.
I believe that if Michelle had been following Ignazio we would have known, nothing escapes the fans.😁
Well here we are nearly a week later, and I am not only on cloud nine, but somewhere higher.
I signed up my friend Christo the fan club so she could go to the soundcheck, which she thoroughly enjoyed, which lets face it, we all did. The Sound Of Silence was wonderful, and although I have never been Gian’s number one fan, after Sunday evening I could be heading in that direction.
His rendition of Music Of The Night was heart stopping. So much so Chris says he should be doing musical theatre, especially Les Miserables where he would make a very fine Enjolras. We had been to see that show the night before.
Chris didn’t go to the M&G, which after all the kerfuffle about being on, off, on, off and on again did actually happen. She was allowed to stay in the theatre, although kept getting shuffled around the foyer as various bars closed for the night. It was a little like playing hunt the slipper trying to find her.
We were told we could not take photos or videos, although I know some did and received a telling off by staff in the theatre. I doubt mine would have been much good anyway, especially as my camera knows what is allowed and what isn’t, like the time I tried to take one photograph in Carlisle Cathedral without paying!
We were also told in no uncertain terms that there would be no autographs at the M&G. I quietly asked Piero if he would sign a card for a friend who is in hospital. She should have been at the concert, but not only couldn’t make it, but is likely to remain in hospital for several months.
I really am very grateful to Piero for going that extra mile, it is much appreciated. Then I managed to drop my pen on the floor, was bending down to retrieve it, Ignazio beat me to it. Gian made me laugh as I was wearing one of my Il Volo t-shirts and hoodie. “Nice outfit.” were his words, with a big grin on his face.
As for the concert itself. I enjoyed it very much, although it would have been better if we could have had the seats I had tried to book the first time around. I especially the enjoyed soundcheck. Not only the singing, but to see how it all came together. Loved all the songs except Opera, it isn’t one I cared for at the time of release, but one out of so many isn’t a crime.
There were some songs I wish they had sung, and this is one of the things that gives me the pip. Why do I get the feeling the London concert was shorter than those that followed. I can’t remember the exact times, but I think it was about an hour before the break, and half an hour after. I was expecting at least two hours.
Because the theatre is so small, the boys stayed on the stage, and didn’t wander among the audience as they seem to do for most concerts. One lady went to the stage to give her flowers, the staff tried to stop her, but Gian was having none of that. Chris was a bit alarmed that he might fall off the stage.
I would definitely go again, but I would prefer a slightly larger venue, and as far away from London as possible. Having said that, I did enjoy Les Mis the night before, and if we could have done a third night I would have liked to see Phantom as well. I doubt I would go to the M&G again as it really was a great deal of money, but I would love to go to the soundcheck again. I thought that was really good value for the £20 or so the fan club costs me each year.
Thank you so very much for sharing your emotions and observations with us. I enjoyed reading it. And I am glad that you had an fantasticc evening albeit a few flaws.
I agree with you that it was odd – and unexpected – that the London concert had a shorter length than the normal IL VOLO concerts that run some 2 hrs. non-stop. I have never experienced an intermission at any of their concerts – not even in the long Canale 5 Verona ones (when it really is needed…), but maybe there are some firm rules connected to the venue of Theatre Royale as indeed the concert seemed shortened by the 20 minutes of same.
Somehow I do agree to the rule of not allowing photo shooting and video-taping during an oficial concert. Yes, I know, it is double moral as, of course, I am very happy for the footage I have taken at the Italian concerts myself – but looking at it professionally it should not be allowed as the next day you can practically watch the entire concert on YouTube. Hence, people do really not need to bother with attending the concerts themselves and therefore taking “the bread and butter” out of their living. As the ticket sales and the official CD/download sales are vital parts of an artist’s salary. Further, seeing/hearing the concerts through a camera is in a way likewise respectless to the artists not giving them your full attention but rather be concerned with the techniques of the camera and right photo angels etc. I don’t know if you can follow me – but to be honest I think it should be forbidden at all concerts. I believe that it is likewise forbidden to use cameras at most theatres here in Copenhagen, Denmark, where I live, so I am not surprised of this rule in London. Likewise, I believe that not letting people in the audience get up close and personal with the guys are entirely out of security reasons. Just a singe lunitic among the audience and….
Anyhow, thank again for your lovely story. Love – Kirsten
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DA4ZjQrx_Ge/?igsh=MW1pZXJ4eWZ0bjcxOQ==
Hier gibt es ein kurzes, sehr schönes Solo dazu von Gianluca.
Danke Ina, dieses Stück von Gianluca ist wirklich wunderschön, während er scheinbar ein Bad nimmt!
Thanks Ina, this piece performed by Gianluca is really beautiful while he seems to be taking a bath!
Kirsten – I agree with your comments on not taking photos & videos at concerts – this is very disrespectful to the Performing Artist & is not sophisticated – but in saying that if the full Concert is filmed professionally & viewed on YouTube for fans who can not physically attend for various reasons – then the Artists will not be robbed – I think there are strict copyright rules to abide by so people should be careful – Theatres & Arenas are responsible for the welfare of the Performing Artists & should enforce no cameras & no videos – thank you Kirsten for your thoughtful comments I enjoyed reading them.
Roz, I’m so glad you saw and heard them in concert and you are over the moon!!
How nice that you also brought a friend!
So Gianluca has won your heart, I would say that as well as being good, he is very charming and kind, but ultimately all three are.
Now I understand why I can’t find entire videos, why it’s not allowed, I hadn’t thought about it, here it’s possible to make videos so I didn’t have a problem. How strange that you tell me that they took a break, it was certainly imposed by the theater, because Il Volo NEVER takes breaks even in Verona as the concerts last much longer. Thank you for writing your beautiful experience!
So happy they finally made it back to London and you got there, Roz–and even went for the full monty!😉
I promised to write an article on the first concert of the autumn tour – Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, London. It took place last Sunday, October 6th, and I was completely blown away.
HOOKED
I had come across Il Volo a few years back on Facebook: they performed Il Mondo to a German audience and they were just teenage boys. I remember I posted the whole clip and wrote something on my page like “Happy Monday. Cheer yourself up” because the joy of these three very young men had captured something in me. And yet I forgot about them – for a few busy years anyway. Then, earlier this year (2024), I (who was never ill) suffered a second heart attack. Commanded (again!) to rest, I scrolled through FB memories, listened again to Il Mondo, and wondered what had become of these boys-with-men’s-voices? Then, oh my goodness, I discovered the goldmine that is YouTube with Il Volo performances and interviews and funny moments spanning 15 years.
Hooked! I was completely hooked. And then beyond excited to see that extra date added to the start of the European tour – London, UK. I reckoned I deserved a treat for surviving despite everything, and I booked two tickets in the royal circle of the Theatre Royal in Drury Lane. I booked flights from Glasgow. I bought the albums and brushed up my Italian to understand properly their amazing lyrics. I played Ad Astra from beginning to end until I knew every note and nuance. It is my favourite album. In it, I hear the struggles and the triumphs, the joy or Felicità that they have in singing, the love that holds them together despite everything.
LONDON, 2024
And finally, here I was. I’m outside one of the oldest theatres in London, built in 1812. It retains its splendid features, the ornate plasterwork, the great glass lights, the private boxes above the stage. Our seats were in the first tier at the left side as you look from the stage. I could just be visible in one of the audience shots. I wondered about the venue – so tiny compared to Verona and others – but when the curtain came up in this old and beautiful theatre, it felt exactly right.
People from all over the world had queued to see them arrive at the theatre. If Il Volo had reservations about performing in London, they were greeted by an enthusiastic sellout. This headline from La Reppublica: Il Volo conquista anche Londra: “Questa città era una sfida, siamo stati accolti col tutto esaurito (Trans: Il Volo also conquers London: “This city was a challenge, we were welcomed with a full house”)
I tried to list all the songs that I remember Il Volo sang but I was too intent on the performance to take notes during it. The emphasis was perhaps tending towards an English-speaking audience with songs from Elvis, Sinatra and Queen, but I was so happy that they kept in the beautiful Bel Canto classics like Un Amore Così Grande and O Sole Mio because I had never heard them sung live. As I said, my favourites are from Ad Astra and it was wonderful to hear the powerful Opera, the magical Capolavoro and to watch the interplay of these amazing voices at the same time as hearing them. Next time, I hope to hear more. I love their new work.
VERY SPECIAL MOMENTS
What were the special London moments? Ignazio’s warm welcome and pleasure at being in London. He told us it had been Barbara’s favourite city. Gianluca’s apologising for his American accent and promising to practise his British one (really, you sound fantastic, Gian – what a linguist!). Ignazio teasing Gianluca about his sparkly boots and Gian teasing Igna about his very Italian accent when he said: “It’s my first concert with the ring”. Piero laughing at them both. And Piero’s smile at the end of each solo, as though he can’t believe he has actually brought it off!
They were in excellent voice, of course, and their solos were truly beautiful – my favourites: Memory by Ignazio, Amor, Vida de Mi Vida by Piero and Music of the Night by Gianluca. This seemed especially to reverberate around the traditional theatre with its boxes and balconies, its hidden corners: very like the Paris Opéra which is the setting for Phantom.
They told us a little about themselves. Piero talked about their 15 year journey together, starting as young boys who didn’t know one another. Gianluca described how he gets lost in the music, how important it is to live creatively in the moment. And Ignazio spoke about losing Barbara Vitali as he introduced Hallelujah. The audience had been told strictly no phones, photos or videos but we put on our flashlights when he asked us to, as a tribute to her. And we sneaked a photo or two. But I just wanted to listen – Hallelujah is another favourite, beautifully sung. You have to hope that their very real grief at Barbara’s death is receding just a little.
One of the UK’s most famous pop singers from the 50s till now, Cliff Richard (Sir Cliff), was in the audience. He was greeted from the stage by Gianluca, and as we craned over the balconies to try and see him, Ignazio told us to be careful and not to take a dive.
The audience was lit up between songs; it seemed Il Volo really wanted to see us and to know this audience who sang and clapped and shouted their names and “Bravi!” to show them how much we loved them. There were standing ovations and I suspect more than a few tears. (Caruso got to me!) We Brits are not so cold after all.
MEETING AND GREETING
After the show, I nervously headed for the Meet and Greet. They took a little while to arrive, and while I was waiting, I wondered what on earth I could say to them. In the end, I walked towards them smiling (probably like a crazy woman) and I just said “Thank you. That was a great show”. Those three pairs of wonderful eyes looked at me, and someone (which one was it?) said, ” I’m glad you liked it”. But I wanted to say, ” You have cheered some of my darkest days and brought me music that makes sense of life.”
WHY THIS CONCERT?
When I think about how determined I was to see Il Volo after knowing about their music for such a short time, I realise it was the warmth expressed for and from their audiences that really drew me. Yes, they are consummate entertainers, beautiful to hear and to look at, but it is this warmth that draws people to them all over the world, I believe. At the very end of the night, as they finally left the stage, Gianluca promised they would come back next year. If they do, I’ll be there.
Danke für diesen sehr schönen Artikel
Bitte schön, Ina!
Jill thank you so very much indeed for a great articcle letting us join you all the way. I enjoyed reading it very much.
And how funny – exactly the video of the 3 teenage boys performing “Il Mondo” in Germany (and stating they were the sons of “The 3 Tenors” ) – is the one that caught my attention the very first tim as well. And likewise few years back only. Their voices captivated me immediately and I had to listen to it over and over – getting me more and more puzzled as to whom they really were – and to have verified whether it was all fake or genuine. So I asked my FB-friends – none of my Danish friends had the slightest idea – but my American ones enlightened me, which led me to surf the internet further. And alas within 24 hrs. they had turned 10 yeaars older and were all wearing a beard. But I had fallen – fallen in love – and I have been HOOKED ever since.
I can follow you in all of your observations and feeelings – only I differ as to my personal preferences as to their repertoire. Unfortunately, I am still struggling with the “AD ADSTRA ALBUM” – especially the ones like “Opera” and “Ad Astra” – while I shall never tire of the former “MORRICONE ALBUM”. Luckily though we are all different and it is difficult to satisfy all of us – but with their truly broad repertoire representing practically all genres they can please us all at their concerts mixing it all together in one big pot. That’s what makes them so unique!
Thanks for sharing – and all the best. Kirsten, Denmark
I’m so glad you enjoyed my story. I’m like you ‐ missed a whole chunk of Il Volo growing up, but it’s been fun catching up, for sure. And yes, we like different kinds of their music but can agree on their immense warmth and talent!
Take care,
J
Thank you for a great article about everything. One of these days I will see them live in USA . I hope they come to Pittsburgh because we have beautiful venues for them. Elton,John,Andrea bocelli ,Neil diamond , the group Chicago , oh so many. But I would love to see Il volo in concert . I’m so jealous but I watch highlights Thank you again
Linda Hramika
Pittsburgh pa USA
You’re so welcome Linda. I do hope you get to see them one day soon
J
Jill, what a lovely review you sent us, thank you so much!!
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the concert and I have to tell you that what happened to you of looking for any of their news or videos on YouTube, happened to all of us, including me.
The experience in an ancient theater is certainly different than in an arena, but the intimacy of the place must have thrilled our kids who were hesitant of London’s affection. It was nice that Cliff Richards was there and it was touching that they remembered Barbara!
You are absolutely right to say that in addition to being good performers they exude a great love towards their fans who enthusiastically reciprocate with equal warmth and it is a magnificent thing to see. Last but not least, you are not the first to admit their company and their unconscious contribution during sick days. And now get ready for the next concert!
Hi Daniela,
I’m glad you enjoyed the article.Yes, I think there was something special about being in this small venue, although it’s been criticised in some ways. I would love to see another live performance by Il Volo and perhaps meet some of you one day.
Meantime, it’s great to read all of the insights and articles on here. Thank you to everyone involved in putting it together.
J
Jill, I forgot to tell you that I’m happy that you like the songs on AD ASTRA, I found the whole CD beautiful from the first day I listened to it and I assure you that Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca were really very happy and also afraid to present it. I like those songs and appreciate them even more knowing that they were hard work for our young people and show that they are not just good performers, there is more!
There isn’t a weak song on the whole album. And I love the lyrics.
J
Wohooo here we go again – a new row of fantastic concerts re-lived through the eyes of Daniela, Pat and fans commenting here. So grateful for all your efforts Daniela for keeping us right up-to-date and more.
I enjoyed reading the article from “Republica” but was surprised – again – to learn that the guys seem somehow a bit afraid of performing in the UK and not the least in London. Yes, there are loads of cultural offers in London – but yet again probably not anything near to New York with Broadway, The Lincoln Center and the Madison Square Garden just around the corner where they are not reluctant to take in the stage of the famous “Radio City Music Hall”. I am convinced that they could have filled the Royale Theatre in London for at least 3 consecutive concerts. Hopefully, the warm welcome and great sucessful of this concert will urge them to make plans for new ones next year.
Yes, it is so true that the guys plan their set-list to the audience of the night – and I was right in my prediction that outside Italy they would once again include several of the traditional Italian Bel Canto songs. However, I really had the USA/Canada and South America in mind in this respect, as being an Italian ex-pat in Europe doesn’t necessarily make you hunger for these tunes in the same way being able to reach “home” in a few hoours only . So, maybe, I would have saved this repertoire till next year going abroad and have given the European fans more of their international core repertoire in stead reaching out to a larger crowd of the native British people? Anyhow, as usual a fine and varied repertoire that everyone can love and appreciate, Only I feel sad that the concert was shortened by some 20 min. – used for an intermission – hence not giving full value for the money in respect to all the Italian concerts. I wonder why this was the case?
I am always happy when the guys work on new songs – and, of course, I was delighted to learn that the very lovely Simon & Garfunkel tune “Sound of silence” had been added to their repertoire. A song that has always been a favorite of mine – and perfect for duetting. Having only heard the above sniplets of their version I may be all wrong – but it really doesn’t go to heart…. More exactly I don’t think it is fit for their voices with especially Ignazio being all too forceful, raw and almost screaming at times. In this sniplet the timbre of Piero’s voice seems too straight-on too … I know it is impossible, but in the sniplet from Bratisslava it does even sound as Ignazia is off pitch… Yes, I know I am harsh, but loving the soft and very intimate sound of the voices of Simon and Garfunkel, this new version breaks the spell of this tune in some odd way… Hopefully, I shall be proven all wrong and end up loving the IL VOLO version too.
Have a wonderful Sunday. Greetings from Kirsten, Denmark
Sadly, it’s almost unheard of in the UK to have an uninterrupted concert of any kind. I’m sure most concert goers would prefer a straight through performance but that old demon ‘money’ flexes her demon fingers…. a few extra £’s in the coffers are more important than an uninterrupted performance….
Ich gebe dir recht, Kirsten. Ich finde auch, dass Sounds of Silence von Ignazio und Piero nicht passend zum Lied gesungen wurde. Es hätte besser als Solo zu Gianluca gepasst.
Genau Ina – Gianluca shafft es diese Lied die korrekte Stimmung zu geben mit sein sanfter Stimme. Hätte Ignazio aber nur auch sanft gesungen (dass kann er ja auch) und nur eine unterliegende stille Stimme dazugebracht hätte es warsheinlich auch etwas anderes gelautet. EsI IST ein wonderschönes Lied die unsere Jugendzeit gehört und deswegen schwierig zu ändern ist…. aber lass uns sehen, vielleicht werden IL VOLO es ein wenig zupassen in der Zukunft? PS: Ich habe deine Video mit Gianluca gehört – top – aber ich glaube dass er nur für sich selbst singen und dass es kein part von Ihren gemeinsamme Präsentation ist?
Viele Grüsse – Kirsten
Exactly Ina – Gianluca manages to give this song the right mood with his gentle voice. But if Ignazio had sung gently (he can do that too) and added a quiet underlying voice, it would probably have sounded different. It is a wonderful song that belongs to our youth and is therefore difficult to change… but let’s see, maybe IL VOLO will adapt it a little in the future? PS: I heard your video with Gianluca – great – but I think he is just singing for himself and that it is not part of their joint presentation?
Best wishes – Kirsten
Ina and Kirsten, I firmly believe that Il Volo could sing it serenely in the manner of Simon & Garfunkel, but the best thing was to demonstrate that they could also do something else without “ruining” a song. 😉
Je ne suis pas d’accord…j’ai adoré The sound of Silence et j’ai aimé particulièrement la voix d’Ignazio…j’avais des frissons… mais je comprends qu’on ne puisse pas avoir tous les même goûts…merci beaucoup pour ton article Kirsten!
Moi aussi, j’ai beaucoup aimé cette chanson. Super!
I got goosebumps when they sang sounds of silence by Simon and Garfunkel . I love Gianluca singing music of the night too. He is our new phantom and Piero can sing love story,opera, and all of his arias
Love them all!!!
I agree with you. Music of the Night is superb. And, as we say here, I think Gianluca could sing the telephone directory and it would be amazing 👏 🤩
hello Ginette. Bien sûr, nous avons tous des goûts et des préférences différents en matière de musique, et c’est pourquoi il est amusant et intéressant d’en discuter et de les partager ici. Ne serait-ce pas ennuyeux si nous étions d’accord sur tout ? Bonne chance – Kirsten
Hello Ginette. Of course we do all have different tastes and preferences when it comes to music – and that is likewise why it is fun and interesting to discuss and share it here. wouldn’t it. be boring if we agreed on everything? All the best – Kirsten
Justement Ginette, Il Volo a donné sa marque dans cette chanson, se différenciant de ce qu’on a l’habitude d’entendre, ils ont pris un risque. J’aimerais vraiment entendre la chanson en entier, car les vidéos ne vous donnent que de brefs instants. J’aime beaucoup voir l’interaction de leurs regards en chantant et les petits clins d’œil entre eux trois, fantastique !
Exactly Ginette, Il Volo gave their mark in this song, differentiating themselves from what we are used to hearing, they took a risk. I would really like to hear the whole song, because the videos only give you brief moments. I really like seeing the interaction of their looks while singing it and the little nods between the three of them, fantastic!
Thank you Kirsten for your compliments.
It seems impossible but it’s exactly like that, Piero Ignazio and Gianluca were really afraid of returning to London, 7 years apart is a long time, furthermore London is not an easy market, but now I believe that the enthusiasm of the three is through the roof, the beginning with London it was fantastic, the warmth of the audience gave them a great boost and everything is going great. It seems really strange to me that they shortened the English concert and above all that they took a break, you know well that they NEVER do one, so it must be a rule imposed by the venue.
Regarding SOUND OF SILENCE I have to tell you that I agree that Il Volo made a different version from that of Simon & Garfunkel and I’ll explain why. Il Volo is always very criticized especially here in Italy because it sings other people’s songs, in short they say that their success is easy because they sing “covers” (songs that are already very successful). Now THE SOUND OF SILENCE is a great song with beautiful lyrics and it would have been too easy to sing it the same way as Simon & Garfunkel. Il Volo certainly didn’t choose the easy path, I have the first version in my heart, but I believe that Il Volo’s version is also an excellent version and it is “their version”. I don’t know if I can explain myself.
Now I’ll tell you something, during the concert in Budapest they sang LIBIAM NE LIETI CALICI, in the comments under the recorded video there was one who said these words:
“As usual they sing other people’s songs, braggarts”
There are no words due to certain ignorance and it was aimed at a lyrical song, imagine what they can say about a pop song.
I agree with you . They can sing anything they want and how they want to too just like Gianluca sand the music of the night. I told JC Reactions to listen to it and he said incredible . We can’t leave Piero out and he can sing anything he wants like love story capolavoro and anything else
Forgot about Ignazio. I love when he jams on guitar and sings Celine and Whitney songs
Daniela – you are an amazingly loyal soul to Piero – Ignazio & Gianluca – I had to say something in support of you – all Performing Artists reach out & sing other Artists songs – that is a huge compliment to the original Artist – some people have narrow minds – much love.
You know, Hramika I listened to JC’s review and I really liked it, too bad the video wasn’t complete. JC said that if Il Volo comes to Mexico he will do everything to go and listen to Il Volo because individually they have beautiful voices and being able to listen to all three of them together is the best!
Thanks Daniela for your response. Yes, I believe that the shortened length with an intermission must be rules of this particular venue as indeed not the way we do normally experience the guys.
And yes, it is unbelievable that the guys should have been afraid of returning to London – somehow they really don’t understand themselves what fantastic artists they are and that they are huge, huge international stars that,, of course, can fill the concert halls anywhere in the world including London. They are just too humble… – so glad they got this good experience to convince them that they cannot return fast enough. The Brits love them!
As to their version of “Sound of Silence” I am still having a lukewarm feeling… I did just re-hear the cllip from Bratislava and I still don’t think much of it, sorry. I fully agree that when singing covers it is vital for the performers to take ownership of it – i.e. make it theirs – and not just copying it. And normally Il Volo do succeed so very well doing so. I mean Gianluca singing Elvis is no copy but yet keeping the soul of the song. When it comes to the “Sound of Silence” I do, however, find that the original soul isn’t there. It is so difficult to ecplain – but having been a dancer yourself you might understand me better if I transfer the situation to the dance floor. As a ballroom dancer one of the elements to be evaluated/judged in a competition is whether or not the CHARACTER of a dance is present. I.e. if you dance a Passo Double or Tango you should be able to feel the toreandor, the bull and the red carpet in the first one and the dark smoky atmosphere of a small French nightclub and two people playing up to each other in the latter – no matter what song is played, who dances or what orchedtra is playing. If this character of a dance isn’t visible or immediately felt, you will not get top points. And this is how I feel about the guys’ performance of the “Sound of Silence” – I cannot find the character or the soul that Simon and Garfunkel created. I don’t want the guys to sing it as a copy – just to keep the character of same. I cannot lie and I won’t softsoap the guys – so I must say that I prefer the original version albeit I love Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca to the moon and back. This is just not their best. I do look forward to hearing the song in its full length and live on my own though – as this sniplet might not be up to its technical best or the guys are just having a bad day. And they might decide to refine their version as they go along. Anyhow, it is not important – they sing so many other songs that I truly love and appreciate in exactly THEIR STYLE.
Take care and love from Kirsten
Carolorlandocao, it would be great to meet at a concert. I’m planning on going to as many as I can. I live outside of Cleveland Ohio. The last time the guys came to USA I went to 6.
Rose M. I’m so envious, green-eyed and jealous (any more like adjectives, as well) that you got to SOOO many of their concerts! 😥😥
I’ve been to two, eleven years apart, and, at 92 years and counting, I doubt I’ll even make one more. But, reading all the comments of their fans, I can imagine being at each one.
I’d also love to meet Carol O. and many more who have “liked” my comments over the years. MAYBE?????
Hugs, Dol. 💕💕💕
Dolores I would also like to meet and I think everyone here appreciated your comments.
I must also say that the beauty of this site is precisely the fact that everyone can have their own ideas, their own tastes while respecting everyone, fantastic!
Ja, auch ich schätze den respektvollen Umgang in den Beiträgen
I love reading all the different views about the boys, their concerts and their songs. Thank you Daniela and Pat for putting together these posts! It’s interesting which albums or songs different fans like best, and yet we love all three singers and their concerts equally. They are the best, and they offer us truly a variety of music. I happen to love “Opera” and “Ad Astra” from their newest album, but agree with Kirsten about that album in general. My all-time favorite album is “Notte Magica” and then “Morricone”. I love the bel canto classics. I started following them in 2016 and each year try to get to one or more concerts. Your reports help shorten the time until they’ll be in the USA. Thank you again.
Thank you Maija for these ideas of yours. I also like the positive exchange of opinions, for better or for worse. I believe that Piero, Gianluca and Ignazio may have different opinions but that they always try to find a meeting point and perhaps this is also what makes them so special. Their repertoire is so vast that they can please everyone and we like this!!
You’re most welcome, Maija! 😊
Yes I agree
Thank you, Daniela and Pat, so much for the recap of the start of their European tour. I am exhausted just trying to keep up with the schedule. Il Volo continues to shine and bring their very best to every concert. I cannot wait until the come to North America. It is great that the repertoire includes Ad Astra selections, the favorites that got them started, and some new selections recognizable by everyone.
Thanks Eileen, we all struggle to keep up with Il Volo because every two days there is a new concert and therefore it is impossible to stay too long. It’s incredible how the three of them manage to find the strength to do everything, also because every time there are trips to different places, different orchestras, even different songs. How they do it I don’t know!
Yes, their repertoire is truly vast and in this way they manage to please everyone!
To Daniela & Pat – thank you so much for the fantastic write-up – videos & pics – we appreciate it so much from Australia & New Zealand as being ‘down under’ – we don’t have the benefit of seeing these gorgeous Artists as frequently as the US & Europe – your editorial was outstanding very newsy & I was amazed at Sir Cliff being in the audience & Gianluca with his impeccable manners introducing Sir Cliff to the audience in the Ancient Theatre Drury Lane London – how wonderful!! – our boys are extremely polite – well mannered & humble – we can’t help but love them in all that they do – they deserve our respect – I loved all of the comments made by loyal fans – fascinating – Daniela & Pat – I am repeating myself like an idiot – but I love & appreciate all that you girls do – you lift our souls – till next time.
Ich freue mich hier Leute aus der ganzen Welt zu treffen . Ich schließe mich dem Dank an. Wie immer wunderbar verfasste Texte
Ina, it’s the most beautiful thing that Il Volo allows us to do, meeting other people from all over the world, beyond different cultures, different religions, different political ideas, fantastic!!🥰
Morgen geht es los nach Berlin. Dsd Konzert ist am Donnerstag. Ich freue mich sehr. IL Volo kommt im November 2025 wieder nach Deutschland und auch nach München. Und heute habe ich mir schon die Karte gekauft. 😀😀😀
Jude, I was very happy to know that Sir Cliff was in the audience and I have never had any doubts about the education and humility of Il Volo, it’s impossible not to love them and in the next post you will see and read other “nice things” that happened during the concerts . Thanks always for the compliments, even if you repeat yourself, we don’t get offended…😂
Thanks Daniela!!
I’ll be in Berlin too 🙂👍🎼
Travelling to see them live is a must.
Been to concerts in Italy so many times and to UK in 2016 + 2017, now Germany.
Ps. I live in Denmark 🇩🇰
Ich freue mich sehr, dass sie im November 2025 wieder nach Deutschland und auch Wien kommen. An morgen gibt es schon Karten
Marianne, what great news, as soon as Kirsten reads your comment she will be happy to have another supporter in Denmark.😉
Daniela, thank you. Kirsten and I have been talking for some time ago on Messenger, so we know eachother. I’ve been doing some promoting about IL VOLO for several years, writing here and there to music people in my country, to make someone to invite these 3 fabulous men to Denmark, no luck so far, unfortunately. The Berlin concert will be my number 12 … my first in Arena di Verona in 2015. Greetings from Marianne 😊
Hi Marianne
Jeg ønsker dig en fantastisk koncert i morgen i Berlin. Bare dejligt du har muligheden. Selv ville jeg også meget gerne være der – men mere end to årlige Il Volo rejser tillader budgettet ikke rigtigt, så jeg må pænt vente og se, hvad deres 2025 program byder på. Nyd det til fulde
De varmeste hilsener – Kirsten🇩🇰
Hi Marianne. I wish you s fantastic concert in Berlin tomorrow morning. Just so great that you have the opportunity. I would have loved to be present myself too – but more than two annual Il Volo trips our budget will not allow for. So I shall have to be patient and see what opportunities their 2025 program will be offering. Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!
Warmest greetings – Kirsten🇩🇰
Thanks Kirsten ☺️
Thank you so much for the stories and videos that you so generously share with us! Appreciate your hard work. Love always to Ignazio,Piero and Gianluca! ❤️❤️❤️
Forever repeating myself saying thanks to you both for another informative article, love everyone’s comments but I love the new album and I don’t care what they sing, I love it all and love the boys and that doesn’t mean that I don’t respect other opinions, everyone has different tastes, I guess I am just easy to please when it comes to the boys, they can do no wrong in my eyes.
It’s always my pleasure to help Daniela bring these IL VOLO happenings to everyone! I’m so glad you enjoy everything, Beverley! 😊
I hope this post appears here. The last few I sent just disappeared… and I have no idea why 🙁
Anyway, thanks again to Daniel and Pat for all the work they put into this site and the guys. I have completed my first Il Volo concert in Prague, from the front row and including the sound check 🙂 I will describe the details and impressions in the article dedicated to this concert.
Now I would like to mention just one thing: Simon & Garfunkel “Sound of silent”. A much talked about song, indeed. I have to say for myself that I know almost all of S&G’s songs, because those two are among my favorite singers. So I can compare. Actually I can’t because it’s not possible. There is the same music and the same lyrics. But that’s all. In the presentation of the song itself, they are two very different versions, and from the bottom of my heart I declare that I love both versions. And Ignazio’s voice fits the Il Volo version really well (for me, if he sang softer, it wouldn’t sound so nice. It’s the contrast that gives it depth). In addition, the guys left out the penultimate stanza in their interpretation, which I quite understand and I don’t miss it at all. In any case, I was very pleased with this selection (in Prague, they performed another song performed by Gianluca).
Great post! Love them and everything they sing . Did you see Gianluca sing music of the night from phantom of the opera? I loved his version and to Piero and Ignazio hallelujah and sound of silence.♥️
Yes, even in Prague, Gianluca sang Fantom and also the solo Bridge over troubled Watter. Both absolutely gorgeous! I have a lot of impressions, videos and photos 🙂
I didn’t notice that the automatic translator changed my word. Of course I’m talking about “The Sound of Silence” 🙂