As you all know, on 31 August and 1 September the two Il Volo television concerts were held in Agrigento and will be broadcast, the first at Christmas on Canale 5 and the second broadcast by the PBS television network.
As I had already announced to you, a friend had sent the request to participate via fan club and obtained the confirmation letter, so she left Canada for Sicily.
Thus began Judith’s journey (not without problems), and when I asked her to write her impressions of the two evening and this was her response:
“I’ll do my best to take some photos and make notes on anything that might interest you. I tend to get lost in my own musical world, but at least one is a show in English. I’ll be able to understand.”
“I take a flight from Chicago to Munich and then to Palermo, then a train or car as close as possible to my hotel in San Leone (near Agrigento) and then I try to get to the concerts. I have a friend who will take me to the concerts from my hotel.”
Already on the plane Judith wrote me beautiful words that are the story of many of us, words that come from the heart and that you absolutely must read. ❤️
“I have no idea what time it is. Outside the plane window it is dark and inside most are asleep and the lights are low. Thinking about it, it’s incredible what some of us, actually many of us, do for an Il Volo concert or to support what we have come to know and love in these few years of Il Volo. Many of us fly all night through strange airports and cities, strange towns and train stations, strange streets and trust strange taxi drivers to take us to strange hotels, whose language we don’t speak, all to enjoy those two hours of music, fun, passion and friends. Some can afford it and some can’t, but those moments of joy listening to the voices of the “kids” make us dream listening to their beautiful voices that take us elsewhere, somewhere deep in our hearts and dreams. My eyes are closed, lost in those moments of beauty. For me, all the frustrations and uncertainty of unknown long-distance destinations absolutely fill my heart when the lights go down, the music starts and Gianluca, Piero and Ignazio take the stage!”
It wasn’t easy for Judith, who arrived in San Leone (a hamlet of Agrigento on the sea) in the evening, in the dark and immediately realized that her accommodation was far from everything, not only from the Valley of the Temples where the concerts were held, but also from the beautiful walk by the sea of San Leone, and from all the shops and restaurants and she hadn’t eaten anything yet and the hunger was making itself felt.
After eating a couple of Sicilian cannoli which Judith found really good, she managed to sleep at night and wait for the first concert on August 31st, the Christmas-themed one which will be broadcast by Canale 5 at Christmas.
“Judith with her friends, ready for the concert, so much elegance.”
August 31st Christmas concert for Canale 5
Last night was very strange. It was a difficult location, but the stage was set up beautifully. What a fantastic location. I can’t tell you much about the show, we and the fan club group were sitting on the far right. Where we couldn’t see the stage, we couldn’t see the orchestra. All were tall, built on a high platform, here are a couple of photos so you can understand better.
There were guards patrolling everywhere to make sure we didn’t take out our cell phones or cameras, and they were diligent every time I took out my phone to take a photo.
The people in the fan clubs weren’t sitting in a good position and the stage sets were built so high with the barrier around it and from where we were sitting, there wasn’t a good view of the whole thing.
We couldn’t see the orchestra or the two big Christmas trees.
A very confusing night for everyone, there weren’t many people, maybe 800. I don’t know and since there was such a small entrance when they finally opened the small door to let us in (it was closed until 7:45 and it was very hot), for getting 800 people in took a long time. To get to the stage the road was really narrow. There was a shuttle that you could pay for to travel a little distance, if you wore high heels you were straight away in trouble. The road (plus a wide path) was made up of rocks of all sizes, nothing asphalted and it was very, very difficult and, of course, holding each other’s arms to be able to walk, and, after a long walk up the hill, when we arrived, there were so many barriers of cameras and lighting crews that it was not possible to see a lot around. We managed to move in the rows more up, but from the photos you can see that we were under the stage and under everyone. But we were in the corner of the stage where the boys were performing, thank goodness!
The boys weren’t wearing Christmas clothes, they were dressed in dark suits, perhaps black, with some sequins on the jackets, very elegant. No one person had winter clothes, there was a lot of elegance, but no winter clothes, one lady had a fur hat. There were two large trees, as you can see from the photos, and may have had other decorations too, but we couldn’t see them. And it was a Christmas show in theory it was filmed outdoors. It was an interesting location for the Christmas show because you could see it was a hot, warm night and the wind was blowing, but people were still in sleeves and how they would rig that Christmas show is beyond me, some people still wore sleeveless t-shirts and tops.
The concert started on time and the guys, as always, were at the top. They were professional as always, they were friendly, they communicated, they told jokes, they sang their songs better than anyone ever could. Of course the songs were mostly Christmas themed. The orchestra was good, the little known songs were great and the first half or more of the show was very good. There were a lot of standing ovations, a lot of applause and a lot of appreciation for their music.
At a certain point between one song and another there began to be huge gaps and the boys were waiting, walking back and forth, then Ignazio said something that I didn’t understand, and he went to the back of the stage, Gianluca told him I went behind to talk to him. Finally they returned to the front and said to the master: Master, as if we were ready, let’s go.
Everything after that was calmer, the music was wonderful as always.
Come to think of it, some of these gaps in the music may have been due to the TV show’s film crew blocking everything.
I learned a little lesson and I don’t think I’ll ever go to a TV-produced concert again. Too many things can go wrong and it’s not about the music. It’s about the show. I think Morricone’s concert in Verona was the best production I have ever seen. It was very well produced, organized, very well planned, excellent music, singing dancers, everything. It was the best on every level.
The guys were fantastic and their voices were exceptional: Gianluca singing “Music of the Night” was a spectacle!
I think as I watch Gianluca more and more, he’s a passionate old soul. He is so kind he is so empathetic and supportive. I actually watched him a lot last night because I could only see them and nothing else in the corner of the stage, and he constantly watches Piero and Ignazio for their reactions when things aren’t going well, he seems to protect them and care about their mood. He supports them.
I remember that at the beginning of the meeting and greetings with them, Gianluca held my hand because I was nervous and he smiled. He listens, watches and cares deeply. I know that every time I approach him in the meet and greet he looks me in the eyes calmly as if he sees me and he does this with everyone. He’s a good man. ❤️
September 1 concert for PBS
I’m sorry for my limited photos, but both PBS and the Italian TV crew were relentless and aggressive in preventing us from filming. I’m sorry I couldn’t capture more.
I wanted to tell you that I think tonight’s concert was fantastic, exceptional. For me there wasn’t enough English, only when filming the PBS parts. However, their voices, their arrangements, their passion, the delivery and their energy were amazing.
Ignazio sang “Memories”, the favorite representation of his vocal range, and everyone seemed to enjoy it.
Gianluca showed his, again a powerful, rich voice, singing “Music of the Night” from Phantom of the Opera, as well as an Elvis Presley favorite that I can’t remember right now.
I would like to have the titles of the songs or their program to help you understand better, but I don’t have this information, sorry.
In truth, the musical choices were a combination of a little bit of pop, but a little bit of opera, a little bit of their Belcanto. In every song they sang, they gave everything. For the Italian press to belittle them is simply unfathomable. They did an English version of their latest song and I’d say overall the night was … unlike the highly organised, highly successful and musically stunning first night. They also introduced new songs that I had never heard before, but they were very positive and definitely a crowd pleaser. I definitely want to listen to the new songs again, definitely! 🥰
Piero Ignazio and Gianluca wore dark suits, but the jackets had no glitter.
People were still elegant but with more colors and less formal and women had abandoned their heels, given the early evening. 😣 The Christmas trees and Christmas decorations were obviously no longer there. 😉
The concert started on time and the energy and anticipation was palpable throughout the audience. Once again the songs were a mix of bel canto, pop opera and classical, with songs from their previous concerts.
However, the introduction of the new songs was electric. Their choices were exceptional and for many moments during the show there was not a cough or a sound except for each magnificent voice that filled the sky and the stars. That night was magical. After every song the audience went crazy, but no one got up and I don’t know why. During the concert, the songs were projected onto a screen at the end of each row of seats and during some English-language presentations for PBS, the words were written on the screen (like the teleprompter).
A funny moment, Gianluca was reading the script on screen for the PBS audience and came across an English word that he couldn’t pronounce. He kept trying to say it.
The word was “transcend.” Nobody helped him and in the end I shouted the word and Gianluca repeated it correctly.
After I gave Gianluca the correct pronunciation, Piero shouted: “Who are you?”
Ignazio said: “But it’s her!” (he didn’t remember my name).
Piero replied: “But who are you? I can’t see anything with this light.”
Ignazio: “Canada” (they know me as the redhead from Canada), and my friend shouted: “Giuditta!”
The kids recognized me because the lights were now on me!!
It was a very fun time.
Another strange thing, later, towards the end of the show, one of the PBS film crew members came to my row and seemed to be pointing the camera at me and recording, I don’t know why. That remains to be seen, I guess. Maybe I’ll be at the cinema soon!
The first evening I had two women next to me, two women from Sweden, the second evening two women from Japan.
When the three guys weren’t announcing their songs or speaking to the PBS audience, they were constantly interacting with the audience, in Italian, of course, which was great. There was a lot of laughter, a lot of applause, a lot of feeling part of the Il Volo family.
All three boys were kind and playful that night, and it was one of their best concerts. It didn’t last long. The concert ended at 11.00 pm, it surprised me.
Just when we thought it was all over, the boys came back on stage and sang Masterpiece in English, a first for me and their fans!!! ❤️
The staff let us out around 11, although it wasn’t over for PBS or the film crew who may have had to repeat some songs because they called back the guys and the orchestra that remained after we all left.
Thank you, Judith, for the nice review of your participation in the two concerts. You were very thorough and your photos are beautiful, considering that you were certainly not in a good position and that the security was inflexible.
I’ve been to the Valley of the Temples and reading your words made me feel like I was there with you.
The setting was certainly unique and fantastic and I hope that the television representation lives up to this Christmas event.
I also think that the crews were different for the two events and perhaps for this reason the second concert went better. We will see the final results on TV.
Thanks again for your writing, Judith!!🥰
Now you of Flight Crew must know that these two concerts had a lot of problems from the usual Italian press. Many articles have reported misrepresented or exaggerated news, but I will talk about this in detail in the next post.🤬
Meanwhile, I conclude this nice review with some beautiful photos taken by some people present at the concerts.
This is the distance between Copenhagen, Denmark, and Verona, Italy. One day my husband said: “Why don’t we take the car and drive instead of flying? Use the opportunity to convert a concert tour into a holiday?” Yes, why not? That’s how we ended up driving some 3500 kilometers through no less than 5 countries (Denmark, Germany, Austria, Italy and Switzerland + a ferry crossing) taking in the sights of some of Europe’s most beautiful mountain and lake districts – just in order to participate in one of this year’s out-of-the-ordinary “Tutti per Uno”,Canale 5 Verona concerts with IL VOLO. Namely, on May the 11th. Not at all a bad idea though, I can report. 😊
And what can I say? Being my second time at this event – hence well acquainted with the special concept of these concerts coupled with the most beautiful weather – the concert fulfilled all my expectations and hopes and became yet a fantastic IL VOLO experience in all aspects. This year I did, however, arrive fully prepared bringing along a full length woolen winter-coat, several sweaters, boots, a tiny umbrella and – for the purpose only purchased huge backpacker rain-cover! Only to find Verona bathed in sunshine with some 26 C (79 F) day temperature and not a cloud in the sky! A bit of a laughing stock maybe but rather that than once again being unexpectedly caught in heavy rains for more than four hrs.
IL VOLO brings the world together.
My husband and I had arranged to meet up with Daniela (our Daniela) and her husband for a bite to eat before the concert – unfortunately, family matters and unexpected troubles in finding a suitable parking space altered the plans in the last minute. However, meeting up with fellow fans has become a vital and fun part of participating in these concerts, hence after a quick feast at one of the many touristic restaurants offering breathtaking views of the Arena di Verona as a backdrop, my husband and I rushed into this unique venue well before concert start enabling us to spend time greeting, selfie-taking and mingling a bit with fans acquaintances from all over the world. Among others we met for the first time Martina Gerlach-Buntz from Germany and her friend Isolde as well as had a pleasant reunion with Jolanta Szczepanik from Poland and her friend Mariola that I had the pleasure of spending some extra time with last year. Luckily, at the very last minute Daniela and her husband made it to the Arena and it was time for big re-union hugs and kisses. Catching up would have to wait to the next day where we agreed on doing an outing together.
Beppe, Danela and Kirsten, Steen
Isolde, Germay – Kirsten – Martina, Germany and Jolanta, Poland. + Kirsten – Mariola and Jolanta, Poland
Just being inside Arena di Verona is a fantastic experience in itself. This more than 2,000 year old architectural pearl brings you in awe… And huge it is. Several times during the evening I took myself in letting the eyes wander around this unique setting pinching my arm. Especially when it gets dark it becomes truly amazing. Sitting in the warm spring night with a pitch black starlit sky above watching the moon move while listening to the voices of IL VOLO – nothing really compares – and I wish that you all may have such an opportunity once in your lives. We had been extremely lucky managing to obtain first row seats on the floor this time – and albeit situated far to the left it appeared actually to be a rather good choice. The reason being that the very wide stage is built out with little extension platforms in each corner frequently used by the guys bringing them up-close-and-almost-personal to you at times. Further, the big projection screens are likewise placed here. Of course a center seat is always great, but one has to realize that from there you will always have to gaze across the orchestra pit which, however, at IL VOLO concerts is never used, but still leaving a considerable gap between the first row and the stage. On top this evening we had a further benefit by these seats as it appeared that several of the IL VOLO team and family members were actually seated just next to the platform giving us glimpses of i.e. Michel Torpedine, Gianluca’s father and brother as well a Ignazio’s pretty fiancée Michelle and hence all the activity that surprisingly took place in this corner during the show. Later we learned that Piero’s singing coach was also to be found in this area.
And then it all began.
At 21:00 hrs. sharp the orchestra started up with strophes from the well-known “Also sprach Zarathustra” by Strauss – and shortly after Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca entered the stage from the center stairs and a roar arose in the Arena.
Finally, here they were – probably just as excited as the some 15,000 people in the audience – and immediately starting out singing the pompous score from the film “The Gladiators” setting us all in the right mood right away as well as proving that indeed they do still master, love and perform songs of the more classical genre. I have never heard them sing this song before, but it was strong, voluminous and perfect for the opening of a grand evening. Bravo! A few more songs from their well-known repertoire followed before the guys greeted the audience and Canale 5 viewers – and the show was on the go.
Following the Sanremo performances I had wondered a bit as to how they would present themselves in respect to appearance now having moved towards a somewhat younger music genre – but I could immediately relax as in front of us we had three guys all modestly dressed in black tuxes from top-to-toe and looking their very normal handsome selves. No fancy haute couture outfits or odd hair styles… just a slight indication of their individual personalities hence with Piero in a very elegant and well fit tux with a string of black sequins on the lapels topped with a black flower. Ignazio wore a very classic tux with no frills while Gianluca sported a bolero-like short jacket over a transparent black tee and some sparkling sequin clad boots. They looked stunning! Being a huge Canale 5 production no corners had been cut – and on the stage we found a 54-piece symphony orchestra and some 40-persons ditto choir – all under the direction of the great maestro Marcello Rota. I wondered what had happened to Gianpiero Grani though – I didn’t spot him anywhere? The stage was colorfully lit up and decorated in bright yellow and red while all performances were accompanied by either video shows matching the themes or blinking light shows – all fine and suitable for a grandiose show without taking the focus too much from the guys. Luckily, we were spared half-naked ballet dancers splashing in pools… – you know what I mean. Personally, I prefer as simple a stage setting and lightshow as possible in order to fully enjoy the guys and their facials and antics while performing, but I do understand that for a TV show of this caliber you need that something extra.
The score from “The Gladiatores”
“Grande Amore”, the start
“Grande Amore”, continued
“La Vita”
Guest stars – a win-win situation.
At these shows no programs are available hence making it quite difficult for at least foreigners to figure out who the guest singers were as well as the names of the songs performed. As Daniela was seated a few rows behind me and I didn’t take notes, I had no-one near to ask and hence cannot fill you in on this. However, by now you have all probably watched and read so much about these shows that you have been able to acquaint yourselves with same to a certain degree. As a foreigner – and not the least not speaking nor understanding any Italian at all – I must likewise confess that the guest performances were those of least interest to me personally. That being said no doubt that the locals in the audience were more than happy to see and re-hear very beloved Italian artists and being able to sing along on the popular tunes from bygone days. Two Italian ladies seated next to me were indeed almost in ecstasy at times and stood up constantly swinging and swaying and apparently knowing each and every lyric. Therefore, it shall neither be forgotten that these TV shows are made for an Italian audience and hence it is only to be anticipated that foreigners shall not be enjoying the guest performances and skits in the same way. Personally, only two names were known to me, namely Gianna Nanini and Irama – both guest stars from last year’s shows and hence recognizable (last year they were total strangers to me as well). No bells rang in connection with anyone else. I couldn’t avoid paying attention to especially Gianna Nanini though as not only was she the first guest star of the evening, but she was likewise granted a rather long stage time as first she sang a duet with each of the guys, then one together with all three only to return later in the show to have a solo entirely on her own. I must confess that her voice is not exactly my cup of tea nor her genre, but I have learned that she has been backing and standing up for the guys from their early days and hence is a very good personal friend. Therefore maybe a form of gratitude and thank you?
Surprisingly Irama was, however, only few minutes on stage joining the guys in “Saturno e Venere” from their joined venture on the guys’ newest “Ad Astra” album. They seemed to enjoy the company of each other very much. Of the other guest stars I paid special attention to the classic soprano Nina Solodovnikova who duetted with Piero in the aria “Libiom de Lieti Calici”. It is always a pleasure to watch Piero sing with a pro opera singer – no difference this time. And it is so sweet when he attempts a few dance steps with them. Piero’s smile was, however, even broader following a presentation of “Non Piangere Liu” from Turandot by Puccini together with five pro opera singers. No doubt he enjoyed this performance thoroughly himself as he couldn’t avoid showing his happiness following the very last strophe loosening his otherwise very concentrated face up into a giant wall-to-wall smile. Actor Beppe Fionello was likewise totally unknown to me and I didn’t understand a word of his speech delivered from the far end of the Arena apart from the word “Morricone”. This lead, however, to the guys entering the audience to the tune of “Here’s to You” and a very sweet moment in which both Piero and Gianluca found their moms and gave them a loving hug and kiss. This is so special for IL VOLO – I don’t believe I have ever experienced any other artists unfolding such a love and affection in front of a live audience – it is truly sweet and goes right to heart. Following Beppe joined the guys on stage and continued his long speech. He caught my attention at the end though when apparently he was asking the guys to present themselves à la James Bond (007). It was hilarious and I loved their little performances – Gianluca standing out with a very sexy voice followed by a smog blink and smile. Later I have learned that Beppe was speaking of films and recited numerous legendary film quotes. As said, none of the other guest artists caught my particular attention hence I am not going to review these further. This leads me, however, to emphasize the fact that the guest concept does indeed work very well for foreigners as well and should be regarded as a “value added bonus”. Not only does it let us experience the guys in new genres and unexpected connections while at the same time we get a full normal IL VOLO concert due to the extended duration of the show from 2 to 3½ hrs. Hence it is a true “win-win situation” for everyone!
“Volare”, Ignazio leads
“Volare”, Gianluca leads
“Volare” – the audience
The red thread.
To link the show together was popular TV-hostess Frederica Panicucci from Canale 5, who was the hostess of the two shows last year but, apparently, this year only present on our night. To put emphasis on the timeline for various tunes to follow she brought various props on stage such as an outdated tape cassette player, an old-fashioned transportable CD-player and not the least a huge jukebox. Among others she used the jukebox to introduce the ever so popular Bel Canto song “Volare”. Being a lady of years it was a bit strange to realize that our three guys were far from born or in mind when my friends and I spent our evenings at the local Milkbar listening to the jukebox as the most natural thing – still I loved Ignazio’s comment that the jukebox was bygone days “Spotify-box”. That guy has humor. 😊
Tutti per uno – or is it Uno per tutti?
Apart from all the guest performances the guys did likewise present a long row of solos. Gianluca pampered us among others with an energetic version of the Elton John legendary tune “Rocket Man”, which he took to the audience, as well as the Beatles’ song “Eleanor Rigby” – a rather unusual choice with sad lyrics about loneliness but yet probably rather meaningful to especially Gianluca who embraces the more philosophical and dramatic universes. Ignazio was performing several to me unknown tunes but I enjoyed among others “La Notte” – by the Italian-Belgian singer/songwriter Salvatore Adamo – and not the least the good old Stevie Wonder tune “Higher Ground” that had me almost get up dancing with its groovy rhythm. I don’t recall any of Piero’s solos in particular as I found his duets with the invited opera guest singers of more interest – but no doubt he is now a master of this genre on an equal level and, once again, I found him as “the winner takes it all” when it comes to standing ovations. He was massively applauded each time he was singing his classical repertoire – alone or in duets.
“Rocketman”, Gianluca solo
“I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing”, Ignazio solo
“Eleanor Rigby”, Gianluca solo
Emotions.
The evening was also filled with many emotional moments… At a certain point Ignazio brought out a piece of paper and read out loud a letter he had written to his beloved deceased father. It was difficult to keep the tears back learning the content. He is so obviously still hurt and missing his dad immensely and oh boy, to bring that forth and share his vulnerability with the audience – and the entire world – shows a very courageous young man. He is to be commended. During the entire evening I did likewise witness from my choice seat that each and every one of the guys took time to sneak over to their families and friends in the corner for a hug or quick chat. I would have thought that any spare minute off stage would have been used to catch the breath or a drink of water before re-entering but apparently not IL VOLO. First I noticed Ignazio sprint up to his girlfriend to embrace and kiss her and sit next to her holding hands. Next was Piero, who apparently had invited his singing coach and with whom he sat down for a bit seriously chatting. Gianluca passed by twice to say hello to his father and not the least give his brother a huge hug and sit next to him for a bit. What can I say… these guys are awesome. I have debated forth and back with myself whether or not to mention the most emotional moment of the evening though as it was so personal… but yes, I have to share with you when I spotted Gianluca in tears on stage. It all happened right in front of us when he was setting course towards the stage extension by our seats singing “Capolavoro”. He was urging the audience to sing along when suddenly he stopped, closed his eyes and lowered his head… what was happening? First I thought he was about to fall ill or something, but then I detected him licking salty tears off his lips… OMG. Then I realized that obviously he had been overwhelmed by all the love and affection sent to him and his colleagues from the huge audience not being able to hold back his emotions. I believe it being happy tears. He got hold of himself in split seconds and continued singing through the tears – and shortly afterwards he returned to the front with a forceful jump and a smile once again urging the audience to sing along. The moment touched me strongly though and went straight to heart. I wanted to rush to the stage and hug him. I shall never forget this as it so clearly shows us that we are not just watching three robots on stage but rather three human beings of flesh and blood with genuine feelings and emotions – just like the rest of us. And as for Gianluca I can only applaud him for the courage to be himself on stage as well – sharing his sensitivity with his fans – what a fine young man!
Gianluca getting emotional, start
Gilanluca emotional, end
And then it was all over.
Everything good comes to an end – also IL VOLO concerts. Hence with one of the new “Ad Astra” tunes: “Framenti di Universo” – accompanied by big canon salutes of white confetti – the evening was concluded in an appropriate and festive manner. Left for the guys was only to bid everyone goodnight, and with their signature stage departure signal: “1-2-3 and a little jump by Ignazio” out and away they were. I must admit that I miss the Danish custom of bringing the artists back to stage one or several times by means of clapping, stamping and long standing ovations generally leading to one or more extra songs. It felt a bit “empty” just in one split second to go from flying high on their music to total silence, bright lights and everyone leaving the site. I would have appreciated to show them my appreciation and love in a more concrete way, but evidently this is not the way it is done here. Daniela and I did, however, have yet a very nice little extra experience as before leaving the Arena we succeeded in shaking hands and share a few words with Ercole Ginoble, Gianluca’s father. It was indeed great meeting him face to face in real life and not just on Facebook. Albeit way past midnight the night was still warm and inviting with the town square full of people and activities, so having waved goodbye to Daniela and her husband we gathered with other fans at one of the lively cafes for a nightcap to slowly land on our feet again and realize that our IL VOLO concert was in past tense now. A most anticipated event and a lovely evening had come to an end.
Gianluca waving good-bye
All 3 saying goodnight and out
I hope you have enjoyed following in my footsteps and send my warmest greetings. Love, Kirsten.
PS: All photos and videos are shot by me and my husband and hence are our private ones except the photo with Daniela her husband, me and my husband (from Daniela) and the one of me, Mariola and Jolanta (from Jolanta).
When Il Volo is in Mexico it is a jubilation, a party for everyone.
Every person has their own way of showing affection towards their favorites, and the Mexican people certainly do not lack a voice.
There is really a lot of enthusiasm and participation, as demonstrated by the sound check that you can see in these short videos.
Il Volo is the guest of honor at the final of FICH2023, the Festival Internacional Chihuahua. The event took place in Plaza De Angel in Chihuahua, a beautiful, completely free concert.
Here is the song list:
And here’s what the Festival Internacional Chihuahua published.
Majestic closing of the Festival Internacional Chihuahua and the FICUU with a concert by Il Volo.
Over 20 thousand people applauded the performance of the Italian trio who delighted the audience in Plaza de Angel.
From midday the followers of the famous group met in the square to reach the best sites and admire their idols, managing to exceed the figure of 20 thousand attendees at the event.
The musicians of the Orquesta Filarmónica del Estado de Chihuahua arrived on stage at 8.30 pm where, directed by maestro César Velázquez Hernández, they would accompany “Il Volo” in his interpretations.
The chords of “Ecstasy of Gold” were played when Gianluca Ginoble, Ignazio Boschetto and Piero Barone, members of the internationally renowned group, appeared on stage showing off their great vocal talent.
In front of the excited cries of the audience, at 9.40pm the music of mariachis resounded as they took to the stage singing the well-known theme song by José Alfredo Jimenez “Ella” followed by “Si ci dejan”, both melodies interpreted in perfect Spanish by the singers.
The concert closed with his greatest success “Grande Amore”, in front of a unison ovation from the audience who applauded such a wonderful interpretation standing up. Thanks Chihuahua, see you next year!
There are many videos, but I have chosen some which, although not very clear, make us hear the beautiful and numerous songs in Spanish that were performed.
The moment in which a fan expecting a baby asks to read the letter in which the sex of the unborn child will be discovered… a little girl!!
Truly a beautiful event, furthermore it is certainly a positive recharge for Ignazio, Gianluca and Piero to have had the affection of so many people again and it confirms that their songs and their way of singing are really liked.
Before leaving for Mexico, Il Volo was also the protagonist of a private event in Taormina.
Do you remember a year ago, Il Volo in Japan had a performance at the Kiyomizu Temple behind closed doors. Now that event is a film and will be shown in 15 Japanese cinemas in January. 🥰
Dates for 4 concerts in Japan have also been published.
April 25 NAGOYA April 28 OSAKA April 30 TOKYO May 2 SAPPORO
Ignazio has started broadcasting FlokiBar live again on Twitch bosky_tv. In the first live broadcast the topic concerned commenting on videos sent by “new singers” and Bruno Farinelli, drummer of Il Volo, was also present. 😁
Then there was the publication of “explosive” news given by three journalists, namely that IL VOLO will be present at Sanremo 2024 as competitors…….oh my God!! 😱
I honestly think it’s good news, but also very fearful, first of all I hope that the votes take quality into account and that there aren’t the usual prejudices about our young men, who will surely now be able to respond properly, they’re no longer kids of the past, they are mature men and have certainly thought carefully about their possible participation, but I must tell you that the news is not official yet, so let’s see what happens. 🤔
Here is the video that gives the news of Il Volo’s participation in Sanremo.
LATEST NEWS, the new IL Volo per Natale EP was released today, Friday 3 November.
Our three loved ones dressed in red are beautiful. ❤️❤️❤️
There are only 4 songs:
HAPPY XMAS (War is over)
AMAZING GRACE
O TANNENBAUM
FELIZ NAVIDAD
We will listen to these 4 Christmas songs with joy, and at a continuous pace! 🥰
……and let’s not forget that Piero, to rest a little, will participate in the New York Marathon on Sunday 5 November. Seems he will have the number 38750.
We wish Piero GOOD LUCK!!💪👍 😘
What do I have to say?
So much beautiful and new news, there isn’t a moment’s pause as there is immediately something new and I’m sure that our men will have more surprises coming!!
Little by little, Il Volo has reached the last 3 concerts of the European tour.
There were great satisfactions and everything on tour went well.
9 October, Hungary: BUDAPEST
A nice surprise from Gianluca during the soundcheck in Budapest, he sang and played SIGN OF THE TIMES, very good!! 😍
From the concert:
ECSTASY OF GOLD
HALLELUJAH
HERE’S TO YOU
There was a guest, the Hungarian singer, Gabi Tóth with whom they sang the beautiful song: CANZONE PER TE. Beautiful quartet, congratulations to all four. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
GABI published this video on her Facebook page, with this comment:
Il Volo had a fantastic concert last night and I am grateful to have been able to sing this wonderful song with them, with just one rehearsal and without speaking the same language, but we understood each other in the language of music! Thanks for the opportunity, Roland Horvat. (her manager)
This was published by KONCERTPROMO.HU
Il Volo hosted a fantastic evening in Budapest! 🎉
Budapest, October 10, 2023. It was a magical evening on October 9, when the trio of IL VOLO, Piero Barone, Ignazio Boschetto and Gianluca Ginoble performed at the Budapest Sportarena. The evening was opened by the energetic performance of the talented Vavra Bence, where the excitement and anticipation of the audience could be felt from the very beginning. The tension reached its peak when the long-awaited moment finally arrived and IL VOLO took the stage. The world-famous trio, which conquered the Hungarian audience for the first time in 2019, once again proved that it rightfully belongs among the greatest. As Piero Barone, a member of IL VOLO, said in his interview to Index: “We are very happy to have come to Hungary again, and we are sure that the audience will enjoy the evening.”
At the end of the evening, Roland Horváth, director of Koncert Promo, enthusiastically declared: “IL VOLO concerts are always special, but this evening was exceptional. Their music, their voice, their splendor is unique. We are sure that the audience had a unique experience during the concert.” The production, the organizers and the artists concluded the evening satisfied. Budapest will surely remember this special concert for a long time and we hope we won’t have to wait long for the trio’s return!
**IL VOLO’s concert was an evening that music lovers should not miss. Thank you for being with us and being a part of this unforgettable musical experience!**
October 10: Czech Republic: PRAGUE
Our young men always send photographs of the cities where they will have concerts, “tourists by day, singers by night”.
But sometimes, walking around the streets of the old part of the city of PRAGUE, you can have special encounters that make your heart happy, and this is how mum Eleonora and dad Ercole reached their son, to the joy of a happy Gianluca! 😍😍
The concert was held in the beautiful and modern O2 Arena.
O SOLE MIO
VOLARE
GRANDE AMORE
Also in Prague CANZONE PER TE was sung with a good singer from the Czech Republic: Tereza Maskova. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Tereza posted this on her Facebook page.
I’m realizing this really happened. 🙈❤️ My childhood dream has come true. 🙏
I’ve been smiling from ear to ear since the morning and remember yesterday’s concert @ilvolomusic I’m watching videos and I still can’t believe it. 😍 I wonder, but was I really next to them? Did I really sing with them? Well, for sure yes. 😁❤️
Thank you so much for this experience it was an honor. ❤️
02 ARENA Prague, published this comment:
The musical group Il Volo presented its long-awaited debut in Prague! We will long remember this wonderful evening full of Italian passion and extraordinary musical experience!
How did you like the concert?✨
This instead was published by IREPORT.CZ Musica and Style Magazine, which I translated for you.
Il Volo created a magical atmosphere in the O2 arena, the trio was accompanied by Tereza Mašková.
Il Volo visited the Czech Republic for the first time. The trio, who represented Italy at Eurovision 2015, amazed Prague not only with their singing talent, but also with their spirit. The singers accompanied by the orchestra were not afraid to communicate regularly with the audience, both in English and in their native Italian. At each concert of the Il Volo tour, a selected song is accompanied by a local artist.
For the Prague show they chose Tereza Mašková, who has been a fan of theirs for a long time. Together they sang the song CANZONE PER TE. Celine Dion’s My Heart Will Go On, Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah and Sinatra’s My Way were also performed. The fans rewarded the trio with a standing ovation and incessant applause for the beautiful evening.
Among many concerts and great successes with the public and affection, we are slowly moving towards the last scheduled concert, as the concert in Tel Aviv, as you know, has been postponed for now. 😞🙏
And so here we are at the last European concert.
October 12, LITHUANIA: Kaunas
IL MONDO
MY WAY
CARUSO
MISERERE
A nice summary of some songs.
Standing Ovation 👏🏻
In this photo you can see Gianluca, Piero and Ignazio with the journalist Ramunas Zilnys who published the photo with these words:
“It’s nice to meet the Il Volo guys in person after an 8-year break. Beautiful concert in Kaunas tonight / Nice to see Il Volo again (we met at Eurovision 8 years ago). Great concert in Kaunas.”
While Il Volo on its Facebook page thanks all the fans for the love they had during the European concerts, Barbara Vitali publishes this photo which highlights the flights carried out by Il Volo for this tour, remarkable!!
And we are right at the end of the European tour. I would say that Piero, Gianluca and Ignazio can be happy with how this tour went, because the affection of their fans has been reconfirmed.
And now??? What will they do??
Maybe they should rest a little……but no, there is already some news that will make us happy, on October 29th they will be in Mexico for the closing of the Festival Internacional Chihuahua.
And that’s all for now but, as you may have understood, we’ll talk to you soon:
The European tour continues with great success for IL Volo. Ignazio, Piero and Gianluca can be satisfied with the recognition for the large and affectionate public that follows them and acclaims them wherever they go.
6 October: LUXEMBOURG
ECSTASY OF GOLD
MY WAY
E LUCEAN LE STELLE , Piero
CAN’T HELP FALLING IN LOVE , Gianluca
NELLA FANTASIA
Beautiful series of photos edited as videos and with Il Mondo background.
Once the beautiful concert is over, they immediately head to Belgium where another concert awaits them in Brussels
7 October Belgium, Brussels
The concert will be held in the beautiful location FOREST NATIONAL.
IL MONDO
GRANADA
LIBIAM NE LIETI CALICI + O SOLE MIO + VOLARE
NESSUN DORMA
CARUSO
SE
HALLELUJAH
ALL BY MYSELF Ignazio
GRANDE AMORE (bis)
A beautiful letter written by fans and published by Gianluca.
Here’s what GRACIA LIVE, concert organizer, wrote.
🎤Unforgettable weekend with Il Volo at the Rockhal in Luxembourg 🇱🇺 and Forest National – Vorst Nationaal in Brussels! 🇧🇪
From powerful vocals to mesmerising harmonies, Piero Barone, Ignazio Boschetto & Gianluca Ginoble truly captivated every soul in the audience. ️ ️🎵 💙
My friend Albertine Waworuntu was present at the Brussels concert, she sent me this comment.
Good morning Daniela. Am now on my way back home. Last night I was with Marie-Jeanne Jans, from Belgium, enjoying the concert of Il Volo. Wow!!! We had a beautiful night with Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca. Ignazio has a new look, without beard. He looks like a boy. You can see his dimples on his cheek and he lost weight. A slim handsome Ignazio. I guess that the tickets were 90% sold. Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca, they experienced how their fans love them. I can’t tell how beautiful it is to see them on stage. I think you know that.❤
Surely you are all aware of the sad and tense moment that the people of Israel and Palestine are experiencing, to whom our thoughts and prayers fly. 🙏😱😢.
Il Volo was supposed to have a concert in Tel Aviv on October 14th and, due to this sad moment, at first the concert was cancelled, then it was postponed to April 2024.
How sad to end with such bad news. We raise prayers for all the people involved. 🙏🙏
Daniela 😢
Credit to owners of all photos and videos.
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