Tag Archives: abruzzo

Working My Way to Athens by Susan

Today I begin my journey to Athens and so do the guys. Even though we have different businesses, the guys bring their beautiful voices around the world, and I bring beautiful people around the world, we both conduct businesses in the same way. Our businesses require that we Tour so we are both very comfortable with traveling around the world and bringing happiness to many people.

The guys bring joy to hundreds of thousands of people worldwide each year. I too bring joy to my pilgrims but not on quite as a grand scale. Everything has its value in its own way.
Why do I say pilgrims? Because my business is pilgrimages.  I bring people to religious places around the world.
So, what does this pilgrimage have to do with the guys? Some of the places we will visit along the way are places the guys are very familiar with because they did concerts there.  One of those places is Assisi.
But let’s begin at the beginning….
This morning, Sunday, September 17th, the guys stepped on a plane in Milan, destination Zurich and the beginning of their European Tour!
This evening, Sunday September 17th I stepped on a plane at JFK airport in New York, destination Rome and the beginning of my pilgrimage.
Working My Way to Athens! Or should I say we are Working our way to Athens!
What’s so important about Athens? It’s the first time the guys will perform there, and the performance will be in the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus Amphitheater which is just below the Acropolis. A magnificent theater! I’ve seen performances there over the years, but I had to be at this performance because I know this will be the greatest of all performances that ever was presented in this theater! Why?
Because, Greece, you have never experienced Il Volo! You are about to pass through a new age of entertainment the likes of which you have never experienced before. Be prepared for your senses to be awakened! Greece prepare yourself to take a giant leap forward in your musical experience.
Many of the Greek fans have been asking and waiting for this performance for a long time. I will be meeting up with many of those fans and group administrators while I’m in Athens. I will also meet up with American fans who are there.
So, this is where my journey is leading me.  But while I’m in flight, let me tell you about a review I read about the guys. Thanks to Daniela’s translation, I can bring you part of this beautiful review.
This review was from a Blogger ~ Cristina Rampini. Cristina is the Director of the Blog. She writes about herself, “I was born a pianist and I continue as an artist! Why? Because I break the mold and start living my days and art at 360 degrees without limits, barriers and above all leaving the ‘idiots gossip’ and ‘criticism’ for its own sake. I started a new life at the age of 40 but as they say… better late than never!!
I already like this lady!
DEJAVU by Cristina Rampini 
I begin with Cristina’s description of the guys….

Piero has a lyrical range and technical precision that make him ready to take on great roles in Italian melodrama. In particular, he leaves us speechless with his interpretation of “Mamma, il vino è generous”, an aria taken from Pietro Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana. (I’m sorry for those who dispute this simply because of archaic mental prototypes).

Ignazio, or ‘the voice.’ Disarming vocal extension with a tightness even in the high notes that leaves you speechless. The star of the stage with his jokes and his irony who also, doesn’t fail to make us cry with a splendid reinterpretation of ‘Almeno tu nell’universo’ (At least you in the universe) by Mia Martini.

Gianluca is always fascinating (but since super in love also very tender) he takes us into the world of the Beatles, of the legendary Elvis Presley without leaving out precious jewels of Italian song such as ‘La cura’ by Battiato of which he does an intense and highly emotional revisitation with a voice that enchants you from the first notes also for its truly enveloping timbre.
Great music, great voices, great stage performance… a show to absolutely see.
The only sadness: very few young people in the audience, and this must make us reflect a lot on the fact that it is necessary to ‘educate’ the new generations, have the critical ability to distinguish the difference between real music, real artists and pseudo artists.

Daniela’s remarks….
And finally, a truly truthful review, which leaves nothing to chance.
The writer does not report ‘hearsay,’ she was present at the concert and was impressed in a very positive sense. 
The comments on the voices and personalities of Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca are very beautiful and spot on.
I had the impression, reading this review, that the writer did not have any restrictions or impediments to write what she saw at full speed.
I was very happy, even elated, it’s been a long time since we read such a beautiful and accurate review.
In recent days, after the concerts in Milan, there have been many positive comments and even good reviews, but this is certainly the best.
The final reflection of the article DEJAVU is very beautiful, it’s true, our young people are not used to listening to beautiful songs even by recent song writers, if they don’t have rap or urban rhythms, in short rhythms that are successful now here in Italy.
Our young people don’t listen to Il Volo at all, also due to the denigrating campaign that Il Volo has had from the press which has always defined them as “old”.
But people are tired of the new rhythms, which have also brought rudeness, vulgarity and inelegance.
Something is changing and our favorites are getting more and more support, and this makes me really happy.
To read the full review, go to Daniela’s Story News and Interviews on http://www.ilvoloflightcrw.com
My comment is more of an observation but not on the Milan concerts. The Milan concerts were phenomenal but building on Cristina Rampini’s review I need to say that the guys have made amazing strides in just a few months. This is evident in their appearance at the TIM Awards.  On Saturday, the guys performed at the Awards. Yes, they did win an award for their amazing Tutti per uno, but my comment is more about who the guys have become in just a short period of time….
As each guy walked up to the stage last night I couldn’t help but notice how happy he was. And I couldn’t help but notice that the three men who were on this stage in June were different from these three men. They already were phenomenal entertainers, but last night they became rock stars!
Did you hear the excitement when they approached the stage. The whole Arena was acknowledging them. And their performances were met with such great excitement both individually and together! No these were not Il Volo fans; these were Italians who were there for the Awards and acknowledging our guys for their phenomenal performances. The tides have changed! Amazing what a few months can do!
Onwards to Sanremo! Italy is so ready for you! Bring home another Lion!!!
This is the video of the TIM Awards.

TIM Music Awards – Click Here

This is what they were talking about when they received their awards.
Vanessa Incontrata said: The flight is from 2015 and look where they are.  So, 2 million records as well as a billion views, millions of subscribers on the YouTuber channel.
Piero tells us that they will be doing three big events here at the Arena di Verona “Tutti per uno” the “Tutti per uno” Concept for large events where every evening there will be 10 guests with us here at the Arena di Verona, so we are really happy to announce this this event.  
Gianluca tells us that next year will be a year of great celebrations because we are celebrating 15 years of our career.
Ignazio gives us gossip. He tells us that Carlo Conti will be a guest and he will sing with them for the first time. He guarantee us, “I wasn’t saying that all for one can be your philosophy. Yes, absolutely not your way of being. Look, we grew up together. Now they are quinticelli, unfortunately we are together I’m not joking, we have been together for 15 years, we really know each other better than our brothers and share our music with each other but above all with all of you.
Carlo Conti said….
This the motivation for the award: For the great success they had in the events at the Arena of Verona in which they brought all genres of music: pop, rock, opera and the great songwriting, as you demonstrated tonight. Making the public experience a real journey into music that only three great artists with talent and sensitivity like Il Volo could give.
So back to the tour….

So today I arrived in Assisi. Assisi is a beautiful city where St. Francis was born, and the people of this city dedicate their lives to him.

As I was walking around the city, I couldn’t help but remember when our guys lent their beautiful voices to this beautiful city with a magnificent concert at the Basilica of St. Francis.

 

In 2013 the guys did a concert at the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi.  It was the 28th year that the classical Christmas concert was being performed and the cast was exceptional. The Rai National Symphony Orchestra was conducted by Steven Mercurio, and the chorus of the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia, directed by Ciro Visco, performed numerous solo voices in a typical Christmas music program. Among those who performed alongside Il Volo, was actor and singer, Paul Sorvino.
This is a preview of the event.

Backstage at the concert we have a rare interview of the parents of the guys. Below are the responses by Piero’s father, Gaetano.  Gianluca’s mother Elenora. And Ignazio’s mother, Caterina.

Interview with the parents of IL VOLO – Click Here

Gaetano says they hoped Piero would be successful and that for them it was a dream to be there.
Leonora says she is very proud and very happy.
Caterina says that the success didn’t go to their heads, absolutely, that they are playful, especially her son who was holding back because they were in a very serious moment.

Below is the full concert which was produced by Rai. It was a very beautiful concert. The guys were honored and moved by the invitation to perform at this amazing Basilica. For the guys, this was a step closer to Italy accepting them.

Concert at the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi – Click Here

Back to my Tour….
Today my group left Assisi and went to Manopello stopping enroute at the beautiful city of Orvieto. After some Wine Tasting, we leave Umbria and continue to Abruzzo.
Next stop Manopello….
Now you might say Manopello, I never heard of that city. And if you looked it up on a map you would have a hard time finding it, so, why would I go there and more importantly why would the guys go there. They never did a concert there. That’s correct but Gianluca certainly made a stop there.

Manopello, particularly the municipality of Lettomanoppello, is in the Abruzzo region.
Now that I said Abruzzo let me begin with Gianluca’s reason for going there.
In an article in a local newspaper, it was stated that a young artist from Abruzzo famous all over the world has been made a Honorary Citizen of Lettomanopello.
The Abruzzo region does not waste a moment to celebrate merits and express gratitude to Gianluca. The beautiful baritone was awarded honorary citizenship of the municipality of Lettomanoppello.
During the extraordinary city council an urgent session was held by the mayor Giuseppe Esposito and the college of municipal councilors of the village of Letta, the immediate request for the conferral of honorary citizenship to Gianluca Ginoble was accepted.
The award ceremony took place inside the council chamber of the municipality of Pescara, in the presence of Dr. Luciano D’Alfonso, president of the Abruzzo region and other local authorities. Following the municipal call, in Piazza Umberto I, a festive welcome was held with an open buffet and greeting by the member of Il Volo.

Words of pride were spoken in favor of Ginoble who was classified as an artist having the simplicity and sweetness of a true gentleman.”

What remains of this umpteenth event dedicated to an important presence for the good artistic-value image of Abruzzo, the testimony provided by a representative of Pro Loco Tholos, a voluntary association for the promotion of tourism in Lettomanoppello, among other things the promoter of the evening:
“We hope that this small community of 3,000 inhabitants in the province of Pescara will always remain in his heart and that he continues to bring up the ‘Great love’ for Abruzzo and in particular for Lettomanoppello in the world.”
If the nickname of “Prince of Abruzzo” attributed to Gianluca by fans, were not enough to embody the character qualities of the artist, the municipality of Lettomanoppello thinks that from today they officially crown him as “Gentlemen of Abruzzo.”
Luciano Monticelli wrote….
GIANLUCA GINOBLE AMBASSADOR AND PRIDE OF ABRUZZO
Yesterday Gianluca Ginoble was named honorary citizen of Lettomanoppello: it is just the last of an impressive series of awards, especially at his young age. In fact, I’m sure that any Abruzzo municipality would be proud to be able to name Gianluca among its citizens, even if only as an honorary title.
I was present at the ceremony as well, and I thank Mayor Giuseppe Esposito and President Luciano D’Alfonso for the invitation. Not only that: I made the car trip from Pineto to Lettomanoppello with the Ginoble family, and in particular the father and inseparable grandfather. Two ideal car-sharing companions: we talked about music, culture and many beautiful things that our Abruzzo has and can put on the field to be appreciated in the world.
How Gianluca, ambassador of Abruzzo in the world and genuine pride of our territory, teaches us.
A COUNTRY FOR YOUTH
In December 2015 Luciano again wrote about Gianluca.
Forgive me if I come back one more time about the exceptional day yesterday, but I am pleased to publish this video, which is a wonderful testimony to the great affection of the citizens of Castilenti and the whole Val Fino City towards Gianluca Ginoble.
Luciano D’Alfonso has called him an Abruzzo Ambassador, but I would add that he is also a great example of perseverance and courage for all our young people: courage to be themselves, aim for excellence and look at the globalized world not as a threat, but as an extraordinary opportunity.
Gianluca is the living proof that when young Italians decide to put into fruition the extraordinary cultural heritage passed down from previous generations, to do it and to reinvent it for the new times, there is no one else. Even for this we thank him from the bottom of our hearts for having agreed to be a witness to the Project “Val Fino City”!
So why am I in Manopello?
This tiny hamlet in Abruzzo holds one of the greatest treasures in the Catholic Church.

Volto Santo di Manopello (Holy Face of Manoppello)
This is believed to be the veil that was placed over Jesus’ face when he was buried. Not to be confused with Veronicas Veil.
The image, according to a tradition, would be “acheropita” that is “not drawn or painted by human hand” and has the particular characteristic of being clearly visible from both sides, as with elaborate photographic techniques of digital magnification it is possible to ascertain. 
According to Professor Donato Vittore of the University of Bari, who performed an examination with ultraviolet rays in 1997, this test shows that the fibers of the Veil do not have any type of color, which is consistent with the tradition that states that this relic is neither painted nor woven with colored fibers.
The next few days we will travel to San Giovanni Rotondo where you find the body of Padre Pio. Many of you have read my book about Padre Pio. I thank you for following me and reading my Il Volo stories and my books and thank you for following me on a part of this pilgrimage. I enjoyed having you along as I was Working My Way to Athens. I will remain with the group for two more days and then on September 23rd, I go back to Rome to catch my flight to Athens.  And I enjoyed sharing my Tour with the guys Tour. It was fun traveling together.
Join me next week as I go back Through the Fields of My Mind and open the door to a new adventure!
Thank you all for all your help with the videos and translations this week.
Christmas with the Three Tenors – Porta a Porta del 17/12/2013. There are some very beautiful memories in this video.

Christmas with the Three Tenors – Click Here

If you would like to share a story with me, please email:  susan.flightcrew@yahoo.com
To read more Il Volo stories visit us at www.ilvoloflightcrw.com
Credit to the owners of videos and photos.

THE INCREDIBLE JOURNEY OF IL VOLO by Daniela

Leafing through Facebook, I came across this beautiful article posted on this blog THE DIGITAL MOON.
As I read, I thought, finally, beautiful and appropriate words, exactly what all of us Il Volo fans think.
I later discovered that the article was written by the daughter of a Volo-friend, Cinzia, whom I met at an instore for the CD signing, and whom I always meet on these occasions or at concerts.
Congratulations, Laura Schena, you really did a great job (the article is signed Cinzia, because Laura used her mother’s name)
This article was then published by many Il Volo fanpages, and now I’m translating it for all of you!

THE INCREDIBLE JOURNEY OF THE ITALIAN TRIO IL VOLO.

 THE DIGITAL MOON blog article – Click Here
The world of international music has always offered a variety of unique talents and exceptional bands, but only a few of them manage to capture the attention and hearts of the public like the Italian trio “Il Volo”.
Composed by the two Sicilians Piero Barone and Ignazio Boschetto and the Abruzzese Gianluca Ginoble, Il Volo has earned a special place in the music industry thanks to their powerful voices, emotional performances and incredible artistic talent.
Il Volo was formed in 2009 during the participation of the three members in the Italian talent show “Ti lascio una canzone”. Their amazing onstage chemistry and impressive vocals captured the attention of the audience and the judges. This led to the creation of a group that would soon conquer the whole world.
From the earliest days, Il Volo has stood out for its ability to interpret musical pieces of various genres with a mastery that goes beyond the age of its members. Their lyrical voice and pop influences come together in a unique mix, bringing new life to Italian and international music classics. Songs such as “O Sole Mio”, “Granada” and “Nessun Dorma” have found a new generation of admirers through their touching and passionate interpretations.
One of the distinctive elements of the group is the exceptional combination of their voices. Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca each bring their own unique style, but when they come together in harmony, the result is a powerful and enveloping sound that manages to move the soul of the listeners. Their live performances are often characterized by pure and passionate emotions, creating an immediate bond with the audience.
Thanks to their monstrous talent, the guys from Il Volo have managed to extend far beyond the Italian borders. They represented Italy in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2015 with the song “Grande Amore”, taking third place and gaining a large international following. Their world tours have taken them to many parts of the globe, allowing them to touch the hearts of fans from different cultures. I had the opportunity to attend several of their concerts throughout Europe such as Warsaw, Kiev and Budapest.
Despite the extraordinary success, Il Volo remained anchored in their humility and passion for music. They continue to work hard to perfect their vocal skills and hone their repertoire. Their dedication to the musical craft is reflected in their flawless performances and continued artistic growth.
In conclusion, Il Volo is much more than just a musical group; they are ambassadors of Italian music in the world. They bring with them the essence of the Italian musical tradition combined with a fresh reinterpretation.
Their unique vocal harmony and passionate performances make them a remarkable group. They are able to connect emotionally with listeners. Il Volo remains a shining example of talent, passion and dedication to the musical craft, and their impact on music history will continue to be felt for a long time to come.
Really beautiful words, Laura / Cinzia, you have expressed in an excellent way, what each of us thinks, congratulations.
And now let’s take stock of the boys’ holidays, with some photos.
I start from Gianluca, still in Abruzzo:

Piero in excellent and festive company.

IGNAZIO while test driving a Ferrari in a simulator in Marsala.

Ignazio on his motorcycle with a friend of his.

In recent days, a great singer, Toto Cutugno, has passed away here in Italy.
He was a well-known songwriter and his beautiful songs were also very successful in Eastern Europe and Russia.
In 2014 during one of his concerts in Russia, he wanted Il Volo as guests, together they sang his beautiful song LOVE IS TO LOVE THE LOVE. (AMORE E’ AMARE L’AMORE).
Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca held Toto in high esteem and he had a lot of affection for them! 

TOTO= Gianluca, Piero …
IGNAZIO= ….and Ignazio.
TOTO= So, (he points to Gianluca) 19 years old, (he points to Ignazio) 19 years old, (he points to Piero), he’s the oldest in the group, 20 years old.
They gave me this satisfaction of singing this song of mine, and then, after this song I leave them alone, because they will let you listen to their successes in America, South America, Italy, France and Germany.
This song I wrote is called: Love is to love the love (he turns to the Russian translator) translate it well, LOVE IS TO  LOVE THE LOVE.
Toto and Il Volo!!

….. and this is the image posted in the Instagram stories by Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca.
Really sad news about the passing of Toto Cutugno.
I really hope that his beautiful song will be performed during the Milan concerts as a tribute to a great singer!
And what about Laura/Cinzia’s article, really wonderful words, isn’t it?
The holidays for our favorites are coming to an end, soon, very soon we will see them again in concert.
Daniela 🤗

 

Credit to owners of all photos and videos.

 

 

ESC 2022: AN IMPORTANT EVENING by Daniela

There was a lot of expectation for Il Volo’s participation in the Eurovision 2022 semifinal, especially after the news of Gianluca’s positivity at Covid had spread, which forced him to return home immediately and leave Ignazio and Piero alone , who with the production team and technology, allowed everything to happen, with Ignazio and Piero on stage and Gianluca from home. The result was excellent, as can be seen from the video below.
Please click the photo below to play the video.

You Are My Everything video

I would say it was a beautiful performance, they really found a solution to make the performance happen, the projection of Gianluca singing from home is remarkable and thanks to the technology and the production team everything was solved.
The new version of Grande Amore is excellent, it is not only sung in English, but also in Italian and this does not distort the original song, even the musical arrangement is a little more modern, but it is not alien to the first more classical version, in short , it seems to me an excellent result.
The voices of our Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca are always excellent, all at the top !! ❤❤❤
At the end of the performance Piero and Ignazio thank the Turin public and Ignazio greets Gianluca with …………. hello Gianlu !!!!
Demonstrating, as if there were the affection that always binds these three young men and heartening Gianluca that surely he will have been heartbroken by everything that had happened.
But let’s go back to the morning of May 11, when everything was still “normal”.
Piero Ignazio and Gianluca are on their way to Turin, where there will be rehearsals for all the artists and guests of the second evening of ESC.
Unaware of what was happening to them, the three headed to the Eurovision entrance where, to access, it is mandatory to take the test.
It is certainly not the first they do and they are calm because they are negative.
In fact, Ignazio and Piero are negative, but Gianluca is POSITIVE!!!! But he is fine, he has only a slight cold, everything seems impossible but it is so, unfortunately.
We can only imagine Gianluca’s desperation, certainly before leaving Montepagano, he had taken a test and it was negative and now he is POSITIVE.
Although there was certainly a lot of desperation, Gianluca could not do anything but lock himself in isolation in a room, waiting for a car to take him back to Montepagano, while Piero and Ignazio had nothing left but to find a solution together with their staff.

While the news was making the rounds of all the fans pages, the Il Volo team and the ESC production quickly thought of a solution.
Covid, has accustomed us to connections from home and therefore, it was immediately thought of being able to make a performance with Piero and Ignazio on stage and Gianluca from home.

Great thing, ESC could still have Il Volo!

The various interviews begin, naturally there are only Ignazio and Piero.

Naturally Ignazio and Piero try to play down the situation nicely, cheerfully answering the questions, but it is certain that their thoughts go to Gianluca and his misfortune of this case. ❤
Here is the news given by the RAI1 news program.
WOMAN = News of these hours, one of the components of Il Volo tested positive for Covid, he will perform anyway, he will do it digitally, our correspondent Leonardo Metalli met the other two.
LM = I seem to notice that Gianluca is missing, what happened?
IGNAZIO = Nothing, we couldn’t take it anymore and we got rid of it …😁😁
PIERO = We kicked him out, that’s enough!😁😁
LM = The truth!
PIERO = He tested positive at Covid, so he is in isolation, but fortunately in 2022 with technology, we will be able to tread the Eurovision stage in Italy.
MAN = The only version you haven’t made of Grande Amore, a little rock, a little symphonic …
IGNAZIO = Yes, a different version from the one before, in a slightly more rock style, naturally we will miss Gianluca on stage.❤
The voice will be there, that’s for sure.
We have it here Gianluca, in the little heart.❤
PIERO = He will watch us on TV, bye Gianluca ❤

This interview is also really nice, I translate for you.

WOMAN = IL VOLO!
PIERO = I often watch this program, it’s the one with the mirror …. hello Serena (she is the host)
COVID DOES NOT STOP THE MUSIC
MAN = The news of course: there is no Gianluca and so what will this performance be like for two?
IGNAZIO = We will have more space on stage for sure😁  …. no, well, we will miss him. ❤ This morning he tested positive and, as is done in these cases, immediately in isolation and we are already working with the production to be able to do the exhibition, certainly Gianluca’s voice will not be missing. It is an anomalous situation …
MAN = Has this ever happened to you before?
IGNAZIO = Yes, once.
PIERO = Yes, in Portugal, but we went on the air anyway, he is always the problem   (Gianluca due to a heavy snowfall in Montepagano was unable to reach the others in Portugal).
We will clearly sing GRANDE AMORE. Returning to Eurovision, we wanted to do something different, we called our friend Enrico Melozzi who gave a rock key …..
MAN = He is also a friend of our program.
PIERO = Enrico,  he is a great professional. He did a good job, we are very happy, we hope to surprise our audience, we will give our best.
IGNAZIO = See you this summer on tour, I take this opportunity to promote ….
PIERO = He is the promotion expert …
IGNAZIO = We will start on June 3rd and 4th from the Verona Arena …
MAN = A little thing ….
IGNAZIO = …. then there will be Taormina, and then we will do cities like Torre del Lago, Benevento, Ferrara, Agrigento, and therefore we can’t wait to return, after two and a half years.
MAN = Last thing, you have listened to the songs in the competition, who do you like?
IGNAZIO = I like England.
MAN = What a voice, Space Man.
IGNAZIO = I’ve been following him for two years on social media. His voice control is crazy.
PIERO = I like Portugal, it’s called Saudace, really beautiful, congratulations.
MAN = Thanks guys, good luck. I get in the way, I do the third, what do you say?
We greet Gianluca and Serena.
I + P = Hi, hi everyone.

And here is the comment by Enrico Melozzi published on his Facebook page:
Tonight the song #youaremyeverything that I arranged and produced for @ilvolomusic will be presented at the Eurovision Song Contest @eurovision. An explosive rock-symphonic version, which I’m sure you’ll love. I send a big hug to my dear friend @ gianginoble11 is a big good luck to dear friends @ignazioboschetto @barone_piero for tonight’s performance.
Of course our paths will meet soon, once again.

IL VOLOYOU ARE MY EVERYTHING(GRANDE AMORE)

While Gianluca returns to Montepagano in solitary confinement, Piero and Ignazio begin rehearsals.

Radio 102.5, has a nice interview with Piero and Ignazio in Turin and to Gianluca in Montepagano, here it is.
MAN = They are connected with us, in this moment Ignazio and Pietro (he gets the name wrong) of Il Volo, good morning.
WOMAN = Good morning Ignazio, good morning Piero, hello guys, Il Volo.
IGNAZIO = We are Peter and Paul. (Ignazio tries to point out to the man that Piero’s name is wrong)
WOMAN = Piero and Ignazio, Piero and Ignazio, good morning.
MAN = Ok, are you okay?
IGNAZIO = We are in an unpublished version.
MAN = You have become a duo, but be careful, because from Argentina (as if to say from afar) he is connected with us: Gianluca Ginoble. ❤
WOMAN = Hi Gianluca !!❤
GIANLUCA = From Argentina: mucho gusto !!
MAN = Mucho gusto: Carramba what a surprise. (they recall a very successful program that united people over great distances was called “Carramba what a surprise”)
WOMAN = First question, how are you Gianluca? I see you in great shape.
GIANLUCA = And less badly, if this is Covid, welcome to Covid.
WOMAN = (she and the man begin a sentence together) We can say, excuse a moment, (she turns to her man colleague), we can say one thing: what bad luck Gianluca !!
GIANLUCA = Okay, but look, apart from that I’m sorry to see this situation, then yesterday I ran away suddenly, now I’m at home, here in Abruzzo.
Having to leave the Eurovision stage and leave the boys (Piero and Ignazio) ….
WOMAN = No, oh well ….
GIANLUCA = We didn’t miss the train, the passage (on TV) is the most important thing, but not being able to live this life experience, this strong emotion, in front of 200 million people, is really frustrating. It will strengthen me, I must tell you.
WOMAN = Yes, it will certainly strengthen you, the period is what it is, I have to tell you, but you will be there in some way.
IGNAZIO = But not on stage …
MAN = You stay wider.
IGNAZIO = We are wider.
GIANLUCA = They will be IL VO–. 😁😁 ..
MAN = Actually there are 6 letters, (IL VOLO) so 2 + 2 + 2 -2 the account returns. 😁
But it is an opportunity, let’s say in bad luck as Federica said before…..
WOMAN = Let’s say things as they are!
MAN = ….. to experience augmented reality, correct?
IGNAZIO = Absolutely.
MAN = What did you invent, Ignazio?
IGNAZIO = Later I’ll tell you what we came up with. But also the good fortune of doing Eurovision sitting from the living room, is not for everyone !!
WOMAN = Got it ???
MAN = Gianluca’s luck you mean !!
GIANLUCA = It also happened in 2012, remember?
IGNAZIO = May I?
WOMAN = Go, go, let’s put order.
IGNAZIO = Thanks to the technology of 2022 we were able to make a video and send it behind us, I must say thanks to our production that did a great job and also all of Eurovision’s production.
WOMAN = First with some teenage boys, one of them said:
“Gianluca will be in DAD tonight” (DAD means Distance Learning, used in schools and at work, during Covid)
GIANLUCA = Exactly, I’ll be in DAD.
WOMAN = You do Eurovision in DAD.
GIANLUCA = Damn, it already happened in 2012, there was a very heavy snowfall here in Abruzzo, I remember, in 2012 we were guests of the “The Voice Portugal” program, shot in Portugal in Lisbon, and the boys left without me (I remember that Piero and Ignazio, they departed from Sicily), because due to the snow, I could not leave.
So this is the second time they sing without me!
IGNAZIO = The snowfall of 2012 was also unpredictable!
WOMAN = That’s it. Listen, can you tell me how things unfolded yesterday? Have you taken the control ordinance test?
GIANLUCA = I took the test before leaving, the day before yesterday, and it was negative.
I arrive in Turin, I take the flight from Rome, I land and we do the test as soon as we arrive at the sports hall and unfortunately they tell me that I was POSITIVE.
I had to run away, immediately and go home.
MAN = But we see you well, you are fine, and therefore apart from the slightly palled eye (tired), but I think that is more for the anger than for the Covid ….
GIANLUCA = Oh yes.
Pietro (the name is still wrong), we didn’t hear you.
PIERO = I listened.
IGNAZIO = Why do you call him Pietro, understood? He is Piero.
MAN = Oh, sorry, yes Piero sorry, but is it Piero as a first name or is it Pietro?
PIERO = I am Piero by baptism.
MAN = So I was really wrong (finally got it) sorry!
PIERO = I was interested in these moments, I’m happy to show how deep our relationship is.
When the (positive) news arrived, the common thought of all three was this:
“Guys, it doesn’t matter what is happening, the important thing is to bring this step home, bring this event home.” It could have happened to each of us three, we are in a rather delicate period and therefore, in this situation, yes ok , as Ignazio says technology in 2022, but if there is no common goal, that is to carry forward our name, IL VOLO, and bring home such an important passage, music, such an important message, we could not have done it. Yes, the technicians did a great job, but the priority there is our relationship, our common goal, which is our strength.
WOMAN = Exactly, this is very true and in any case it is news and tonight everyone will be waiting to see what you have invented and in the end you always have to look at the glass half full, see the positive side of things, as far as situations are concerned, clearly not like this in the specific, which in the end, as you can see, is resolved, but like the one that the world has experienced in these two years.
Listen, by the way you will bring the new version of Grande Amore.
PIERO = Yes, we contacted our friend Enrico Melozzi, you know we are always used to hearing the classic version of Grande Amore, it’s not easy to make another version, you know it’s really difficult to do a good job ….
WOMAN = Let’s do something, Piero, let’s hear it and then comment on it together, so let’s give a preview of what will happen tonight?
PIERO = Sure, go!
WOMAN = YOU ARE MY EVERYTHING, listen here, guitars instead of violins, what came out ….. (the new version of Grande Amore starts, but in the video you can hear only the beginning )
MAN = Standing ovation for Il Volo !!
WOMAN = Guys what a bomb !!
MAN = Strong, strong. Strong this version.
PIERO = I wanted to say that it is an important day today, because it is the birthday of our manager, Michele Torpedine.
MAN = Happy Birthday, hi Michele !!
WOMAN = Michele, greetings Mik.
IGNAZIO = Despite turning 170, he looks a little less.
WOMAN = That’s right, hi Mik, can we reveal that we once pretended on TV that we were husband and wife?
PIERO = Federica says you pretended to be husband and wife on social media.
TORPEDINE = It’s true, it’s true !!
WOMAN = Okay, these were the altars (little secrets) for an episode recorded one evening a few years ago.
Guys, this new version is cool.
PIERO = Enrico Melozzi did a really great job, because when we heard his idea, the rearranged song, we were surprised, and that’s what we were looking for, I really mean it. Well done.
WOMAN = Really beautiful!
GIANLUCA = And then from a charge, especially singing it on the Eurovision stage, we can’t wait to perform and we will give our best to try to surprise and excite people.😁
PIERO = This joke is beautiful Gianluca !!😁
MAN = Yes, this joke is beautiful! Fantastic. (laughter) 😁😁😁
Anyway you will be there and it will be exciting to listen to you again tonight.
PIERO = Let’s play down …
GIANLUCA = It will be wonderful guys !!
MAN = So, counting, Gianluca, if you tested positive yesterday, now for the next 10 days you will be out of order, so how are you planning for the start of the tour?
GIANLUCA = Actually, there was also a concert in Barcelona.
WOMAN = Yes, Sunday.
MAN = Indeed.
GIANLUCA = Oh yes, we have also postponed the concert in Barcelona, then in any case the tour starts in June from the Verona Arena, 3 and 4 June there are two concerts in the Arena, then at the Ancient Theater of Taormina, we will continue in July the concerts in Europe and then we will go to Japan, September and October the US and Canada and then Australia, so it will be a busy schedule.
PIERO = Besides Verona and Taormina we will do many other concerts in Italy, Torre del Lago, Agrigento …
WOMAN = At that point Gianluca will be immunized, he will have antibodies.
MAN = Only skip Barcelona, sorry for Spanish friends, but it will recover …
PIERO = It will be rescheduled anyway …
MAN = It will be reprogrammed and, as we have heard, you will still be our flag bearers.
GIANLUCA = We will come to see you in the studio very soon.
MAN = We look forward to seeing you
GIANLUCA = Not in these 10 days, obviously.😁
WOMAN = No, later, later.
MAN = Maybe even earlier, it depends a little on the contagion, but seeing yourself like this, you are very well, in my opinion already in a couple of days you negativize yourself.
WOMAN = Otherwise let’s put Gianluca’s augmented reality here in the studio too.
MAN = Okay, thanks guys, good evening for tonight.
We are sure it will be a great return for you to the Eurovision Song Contest stage. Thanks to Il Volo!
WOMAN = Bye guys, good luck.
MAN = Bye Piero, bye Ignazio, bye Gianluca, bye thanks.

After the performance of the evening, Gianluca from home wrote to Piero and Ignazio on Twitter:

Last night you were simply spectacular. ❤

The gift of ubiquity is the new symptom.I had proof of that at Eurovision tonight!Il Volo, you have triumphed!I was there with you!

 

And now let’s enjoy the beautiful photos of the evening.

It goes without saying that the video of Il Volo, published on the ESC Facebook page, had many shares and as many comments and all of people who remembered Il Volo 7 years earlier with great affection and remembered well the missed victory and the beautiful song.
Very beautiful and affectionate comments from all over Europe and beyond. ❤
Not everyone agrees with the new English version, there are those who prefer the Italian version, but Il Volo was great not to present only an English version, but a bilingual one !!

I’ll spare you some comments from the Italian press, some really bad, but by now we’re used to it, and others more benevolent like this one taken from ZON.it:
“The unexpected of the positivity of Gianluca Ginoble, the baritone of the trio, did not prevent Il Volo from unleashing a riot of applause at the Pala Alpitur in Turin. The world-acclaimed group made Europe vibrate with a version completely new to Grande Amore.
The choice to take the stage despite the unfortunate event was courageous. Two winning weapons: on the one hand the text contaminated by English, on the other the contemporary arrangement, a symphonic rock that bears the signature of the maestro Enrico Melozzi. Vote 9.
I want to conclude this participation in ESC 2022 with two short videos, shot in the audience, while Il Volo performed on stage, this testifying to the fans’ GRANDE AMORE for IL VOLO. ❤❤❤
Daniela

 

 

Credit to owners of all photos and videos.

 

Gianluca Shares His Amazing Voice

Gianluca is very different from Piero and Ignazio. He had a calm and peaceful childhood. He didn’t have the challenges that Ignazio had or the intense classical education that Piero had. No, Gianluca lived a very simple life. Perhaps that explains why Gianluca is a romantic. With him, everything is about passion! Like his passion for Abruzzo which he takes around the world. On tour he always speaks about Abruzzo. He loves his country and, he wants others to love it too! I agree with Gianluca, Abruzzo is an amazing place. My maternal grandparents were from Abruzzo!

A young Gianluca eating a cookie A teenage Gianluca wearing a hat

Gianluca’s life began in the small town of Montepagano where he lived a simple life but, when he emerged, he began a journey that would take him around the world and through his amazing voice would leave his mark in every corner of that world.
Let’s listen to how Gianluca describes the town he grew up in:
To be precise, I grew up, in Montepagano, on a hill two hundred meters as the crow flies and ten minutes by road from the sea, and Roseto degli Abruzzi.
The accents are beautiful, the dialects are beautiful, but I can say that what I prefer is the Abruzzese? I am, very, proud to be from Abruzzo. I love everything about this region. And I like to bring Abruzzo around the world and keep it high.
I am right at the sea. I’m relaxing, I’m calm! There is a sea breeze and nothing else. It’s Thursday and I am practically alone on the beach. I’m fine, from God! I’m fine because I’m home.

Gianluca in sunglasses and a leather jacket

When Gianluca goes home to Abruzzo, he feels like he is on vacation. Montepagano is a very beautiful town. It sits at the top of a hill facing the Adriatic Sea. It is like a picture-perfect postcard!  It’s no wonder Gianluca is at peace here. Montepagano is Gianluca’s paradise.
If you ask Gianluca about this paradise and how he spent his childhood there he will tell you, “My life as a child seems so far away. I remember, very, little of my childhood! It’s like twenty years have passed but, only five have passed. I’m not like Ignazio I was born and raised in Montepagano. I was traveling only with dreams. What made me dream? Music naturally.”
And, so, we come to perhaps Gianluca’s greatest passion, Music! Or let’s say our greatest passion about Gianluca, his music!
As you know, Gianluca’s mother worked, so, he went to after-school session with the nuns. He had a teacher named Gabriella. One afternoon, while Gianluca was doing homework, he suddenly got up and started singing “Time to Say Goodbye.” The teacher was speechless. “What a voice you have, what a wonderful voice,” she told Gianluca. “But do you know Andrea Bocelli?” She could not believe how it was possible for such a small child to have such a voice and to know a singer of that kind. “Of course, I know him,” Gianluca said, “he’s my idol, my favorite singer,” Gianluca said this with a certain pride. “Only I do not have his CD yet.” “I’ll bring it to you tomorrow, I’ll gift it to you” was the teacher’s answer. “I was seven, maybe eight years old and thanks to Gabriella I was able to start listening to Andrea Bocelli as often as I wanted.”
Yes, this was Gianluca’s passion as a young boy to sing Bocelli songs. And he sang them all the time. But it was music itself that motived Gianluca.  In an interview with the “Rosetana Star” Gianluca said: “Music for me is the oxygen of my life.”
And it wasn’t just Bocelli as Gianluca will tell you. “As I grew older, I became more passionate about singing, including the great American classics, first of all Frank Sinatra.”

So, let’s turn to the Voice! Sinatra was known as the Voice. But I think Sinatra would be in awe of Gianluca. Love you Frank but Gianluca’s got this one!
Gianluca is known as the Velvet Voice!
I don’t who coined the phrase but, that is right on. Let’s use our senses to understand what that means. Take a piece of velvet and hold it in your hand. Now take your other hand and gently pass your hand across the velvet. What do you feel? You feel a smooth even surface that is crisp with no breaks in it. The sensation is so good that you automatically go back and do it again. And every time it’s the same. It’s pleasing!
Now take Gianluca’s voice, let the notes pass into your ears, what do you hear? A crisp, smooth, even voice with no breaks in it. The note barely passes into your ear and, you are going back for the next note. It’s always pleasing!
Gianluca is a lyrical baritone. He is exceptional because he can sing from the lowest to the highest note in the baritone range. Most baritones are limited in range. Gianluca’s voice is huge. He has a very rich chest resonance which creates a feeling of depth and drama in his voice.

A baritone’s voice is very romantic, very pleasing to listen to and is always inviting. Most songs are written for baritones. Gianluca starts, almost, every song. Why? In order for a song to be received well you must draw your audience into it. Gianluca’s voice draws you in in a romantic way and you hang on to every note. He can mesmerize you with songs like “Mi Mancherai” where he reaches into the depth of his being and yours. His interpretation of “Surrender” is electrifying. But, when Gianluca sings, “She’s Always a Woman”, he takes your breath away. The highs, the lows, the emotion, the expression. His voice expands like nothing I ever heard before. He has total command of the song. You walk away with your senses lifted to another level.
So, let’s turn to how Gianluca got to where he is today! To do this I need to introduce you to the Zecchino d’oro .
Why the Zecchino d’oro or perhaps you’re saying what is the Zecchino d’oro?
I was first introduced to the Zecchino d’oro last November when an article came out saying the Zecchino d’oro will be postponed due to Covid 19. The presenters of the year would be Mara Venier and Carlo Conti.
When I read this article, I immediately thought of Gianluca.  So, what is the Zecchino d’oro and what does it have to do with Gianluca?
The Zecchino d’oro is an Italian tradition. It is an event for kids, and it is dedicated to them and to all the adults who still feel like kids.
This show is presented every year between late November and the beginning of December.
In Italy there are magical days, when it starts to get cold, and children stay in their warm homes. It’s not Christmas, but the period that precedes it when the famous Zecchino d’oro TV show is broadcast. It has been broadcast every year, for decades. It was established in 1959 by Cino Tortorella who was the good presenter who introduced the children on stage, disguised as Mago Zurlì. He was so loved by all children.

Black and white photo of Cino Tortorella talking to a little girl on the show Black and white photo of the Zecchino d’oro TV show

The Zecchino d’oro is the festival of the little ones. In fact, if the Sanremo Festival is aimed at adult audiences and the songs are interpreted by adults, the Zecchino d’oro is made for children, with songs tailored for children.
The songs may seem like simple songs but, they are actually much more. Special attention is given to the songs’ texts. The themes are about tolerance and peace. And this is confirmed by the expression of the event: “In this contest, the winner is not the child who sings, but the song that is sung!”
Black and white photo fo Mariele Ventre teaching children Father Berardo Rossi, one of the founders, discovered by chance, a girl who used to teach the children of his parish and organize events. Mariele Ventre, who was 22 years old, had just graduated from the Verdi Conservatory in Milan and was on her way to a promising concert career. She said yes to Fr. Rossi’s proposal and the adventure began.
Mariele liked the name Zecchino because it refers to the gold coin in the field of miracles of Collodi’s Pinocchio and thus it was called Zecchino d’oro. She founded the Piccolo Coro two years later, an institution that she would direct passionately for thirty years, until the last day before she died on December 16, 1995. Upon her death the Piccolo Coro dell’Antoniano, was renamed Piccolo Coro for Mariele.
Zecchino d’oro, however, is not only music and entertainment, but it has also been carrying out voluntary initiatives by raising funds to build schools, hospitals, orphanages, with projects all over the world, to help the less fortunate live better lives.
In 2008, the Zecchino d’oro received an amazing recognition from UNESCO, becoming a world heritage for a culture of peace: the first TV show in the world to receive such a prestigious award.
This year the images were to be reassuring to Italy. The country had the strength to bet on good feelings and a strong idea of safeguarding children.

Topo Gigio

Though you may not know this show in America, we can relate to one of the characters, Topo Gigio, the puppet created by Maria Perego. Topo Gigio landed in America many years ago on the legendary Ed Sullivan Show. For those of you who are not old enough to remember Topo Gigio, let me say we waited every week for his appearance on the show. For us kids and the adults he became a household name. Seems hard to believe that this little mouse stole the hearts of the American people.
So where does Gianluca fit into all of this? If it wasn’t for the Piccolo Choir of Roses which was inspired by the Zecchino d’oro, Gianluca may not have been discovered.

Gianluca as a member of the Piccolo Choir of Roses

Gianluca was a member of the Piccolo Choir of Roses which is one of the local branches of this choir. The Mago Zurlì, who was the presenter of the event when Gianluca was in the Choir, was Gianluca’s father, Ercole Ginoble.
But, let me let Gianluca tell you how this all came to be….
When I sing, I don’t forget instinct.  What does that mean? As I said, I have never studied singing. I learned to “use” my voice only thanks to my musical ear. I listened to the music and, it transmits everything I know. And I especially thank the Little Choir of Roses.
When I was about eight or nine, all those who knew my voice gave me the same advice: go sing in a choir. In Roseto there was the Piccolo Choir of Roses directed by the master Susy Paola Rizzo. They sang the songs of the “Zecchino d’oro” or other famous songs with arrangements in that style, with music for children. The Mago Zurlì, that was the presenter of the event, was my father. He had been for a couple of seasons.
This is where I started. It was nice because we studied the songs throughout the winter season, not the technique of singing, the songs. It was different, because we did not study the notes and how to do them, rather we studied instinctively, following what the teacher said and what our ear heard.
Then, in the summer, we demonstrated our work in the Municipality of Roseto. We sang in the squares during the local festivals, in the lidos, in the bathing establishments, around the whole of Abruzzo, all these tiny villages.

During the performances with the choir, besides the repertoire of the Zecchino d’oro, we sang the songs of Bocelli: Misere, Il Mare Calmo Della Sera, La Voce Del SilenzIo.

Left to right: Gianluca, Ignazio and Piero in front of a Sanremo 2015 sign Gianluca, Ignazio and Piero

Of course, the greatest achievement for Gianluca and the guys was winning Sanremo! We know that it was Gianluca who convinced the guys to go to Sanremo! Or rather Gianluca convinced Piero who convinced Ignazio. And, in the end, Gianluca sums up Sanremo and the events that follow in this way!
The truth is that I was right from the beginning and, no one has ever listened to me, ever. I believed it so much that, if you notice, maybe I’m the one with the least surprised look when Carlo Conti announces the winner. Then, of those moments, one remembers little, there is great confusion, emotion. It was a dream to be able to shout, “Thank you, Italy!” from that stage. I looked at Sanremo as a child, when there was Pippo Baudo, and I was there and have won because people were on our side and it was a dream, I repeat even if I have already said. The emotion was only when my grandfather told me almost in tears: ‘Who would have told me that in my life I would see Modugno win at the Festival and then I see you win.’
On Sunday evening, when I returned to Montepagano, I found th whole village in a party, not just my grandfather: my countrymen were waiting for me from the morning to celebrate. There really was everyone, including the mayor. And then, the journalists, the local TV and a crowd of people who we could not count.
Another of the beautiful things that came after San Remo was the chance to meet the children of the Agbe, the Association of Parents of the Emopatic Children, of Pescara.
It is a reality born in 2000 from the idea of a group of parents, in fact, with children from the hemopaths treated at the Santo Spirito hospital in the city. The purpose of the association is to give support in every way to the children and families during and after the period of treatment. An initiative that, for those like me and very sensitive to the problems of health of children, and really beautiful.
The thing that honors me a lot and that, inspired by my story with Ti Lascio Una Canzone, they thought to have the children dedicate to singing, so they organize a Christmas show every year that keeps them very busy and also a lot of fun. But at Agbe they would never have thought we would meet.
Instead, after the Festival I went to see them, all young patients from 4 to 15 years, and I invited them to our concert of Il Volo Live 2015 in Chieti because I knew that Piero and Ignazio would have been happy to meet them. And, so, it was: they came, they had fun and we spent time together taking pictures and signing autographs.

Gianluca in a brown jacket looking over his shoulder Gianluca in a white long sleeve dress shirt taking a selfie photo

But Gianluca is about emotions too! And many things that happened after Sanremo were emotional for Gianluca! Like Gianluca receiving a prize for bringing Abruzzo around the world. Let’s listen to Gianluca talk about the emotion of winning this prize.
When I talk about emotions that arrived after Sanremo, I cannot forget what it meant to receive a prize like Abruzzese that gives prestige to its region in the world.
Every year on August 5th is celebrated the Day of Abruzzesi in the world, a day set up with a regional law to remember all the emigrants. On that day five ambassadors of Abruzzo are appointed in the world, that is, Abruzzesi who have come out of the regional boundaries for different reasons and give prestige to their region.
For example, they awarded a university lecturer, a cardiologist, the founder of a cultural association, an entrepreneur and a successful executive. The ceremony, which has a different location every year, was held in the Fortress of Civitalla del Tronto, a village that is a jewel of the province of Teramo, right on the border with the Marches.
I, however, am still in Abruzzo and therefore I cannot be appointed ambassador according to regional regulations, I was awarded with a beautiful statuette that replicates the warrior Capestrano, for having brought the name of my land around the world.
I cannot tell you what a feeling it is to receive from the regional Presidency the cultural symbol of my region. The original of the warrior stands in the National Archaeological Museum, more than two meters tall, of limestone, with a large disk helmet that looks like a hat. You see it for sure. And it is one of the things I’m most proud of.
In short, Sanremo was just a dream that brought us many different emotions.
Gianluca has a heart of gold! It’s always about helping others whether through his generosity or his love of his country! That’s just how Gianluca is. He has his hand in everything and reaches it out to those who need it!
But it seems I digressed!

Gianluca holding a microphone singing

So now, let me go back and sum up Gianluca’s musical career! Although Gianluca never studied music he did develop a musical ear and instinct and as a member of the Piccolo Choir of Roses and his performances around Abruzzo, he was discovered by Licia Giunco who brought Gianluca to Rome to audition for Ti Lascio Una Canzone. The rest of the story is history!
And as a result of this, Gianluca Shares His Amazing Voice with people all over the world!
Join me next week as I go back Through the Fields of My Mind and open the door to a new adventure!
If you would like to share a story with me, please email:  susan.flightcrew@yahoo.com
To read more Il Volo stories visit us at www.ilvoloflightcrw.com
*Excerpts from Il Volo, Un’avventura straordinaria, La nostra storia.

 

Credit to owners of all photos and videos.

HERE WE ARE by Daniela

A few days ago a short video was published that reports some questions (perhaps asked by the fans) to which Il Volo answered.
I believe they were made before the tribute concert at the Arena.
These are a handful of questions, but it’s nice to see how Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca react and make fun of each other!
The comment accompanying the video is:
“Here we are, with unexpected questions, sincere answers, laughter and curiosity.”
Part 1 (so it is assumed that there will be more short videos like that.)
I translate for you:
QUESTION = Can you tell me about an event that has remained close to your heart, which happened with your fans?
PIERO = NO
QUESTION = Have you ever changed or forgotten the lyrics of a song?
IGNAZIO = Do you know how many times we have forgotten the words during a concert !!
PIERO = It was a piece in French, TUS LES VISAGES DE L’AMOUR …. and I forgot the words, I didn’t remember anything.
QUESTION = Who often forgets their socks?
PIERO = Him (and points to Ignazio)
IGNAZIO = Who, I? It’s Gianluca!
GIANLUCA = Me ?? You! (points to Ignazio)
IGNAZIO = Me? You! (points to Piero) 😁😁😁
QUESTION = Favourite song?
IGNAZIO = As of today, with the project we are doing: YOUR LOVE.
QUESTION = A ritual you do before a concert?
IGNAZIO = One of the things we often do is shake hands, (he joins his hands) like this.
QUESTION = Favorite movie?
IGNAZIO = THE TRUMAN SHOW
PIERO = No! NUOVO CINEMA PARADISO.
GIANLUCA = GOOD WILL HUNTING, with Robin Williams

IL VOLO in an ad for the SMA - Seat Music Awards

This photo, published on the official page of Il Volo, informs us that on 9 September, Il Volo will be present in the Arena di Verona, at the Seat Music Awards event, an event where all the artists who have achieved their goals are awarded and certainly Il Volo. will be present for the Gold Record obtained with the sales of the 10-year CD.
Well, it is an event full of artists and music and very popular with young people, we will hear that song (usually only one) presents Il Volo.
The photo is accompanied by this comment:
“Hello #ilvololovers, we are delighted to inform you that this year we will participate in the #SeatMusicAwards at the Verona Arena and we can’t wait.
It is always a great honor for us to sing in the suggestive atmosphere of the Arena!
See you in September!”
SMA - Seat Music Awards logo
Another very nice video starring Gianluca, was published by visitRoseto.it.
It is entitled Gianluca Ginoble-Multimedia tourist guide of Roseto degli Abruzzi, and in fact, who better than Gianluca, so proud of his land, can highlight the beauties of Montepagano?
In addition, the Belvedere is very close to his home.

I translate for you:
We are certainly in one of the most beautiful places on the Adriatic coast.
I am biased, however, we are in Montepagano, in the Belvedere, the place where I grew up and looking out from here certainly helps to appreciate the true meaning of life.
Being able to look at the sea from afar and appreciate the sound of the sea waves, this wonderful sound that is like music.
I grew up on music, and as maestro Ennio Morricone said “from silence great works of art are born”.
So I invite you to be here and to look out from this wonderful place, to really be able to appreciate the good things in life, music and the sea, which have one great thing in common, are a great work of art.
Very good Gianluca and to lend you for these relaunch messages of your country, it does you honor.
The Tokyo 2020 Olympics have just ended, but we could not show you this nice video of a Mexican gymnast, Rut Castillo, performing her rhythmic gymnastics exercise with the ribbon on the well-known notes of El Triste, sung by Il Volo!!
And now let’s see what our three have posted.
In early August, they went to Milan, to Sony and then to do a photo shoot, perhaps for the new CD?
Here are the photos posted by those who took care of their appearance.

Ignazion in Milan with hairdresser

Piero in Milan with hairdresser

Gianluca in Milan with hairdresser

It’s also vacation time and let’s find out where our young men are.
Ignazio is always the one who publishes very little, his few photos are almost always published by others, he almost never publishes.
Here he is again at a wedding.

Ignazio with a male friend at a wedding

male friend at a wedding

Piero remained in his Sicily, often photographed in Taormina.

Piero at BamBar with his brother and a friend

Piero sitting on a balcony in Taormina

PIero selfie with sister, Maria Grazia

Here, Piero with his sister Mariagrazia.

PIero in a pool with his friend, Dario Mirabile, in Taormina

With his friend Dario Mirabile.
Surely the most prolific of photos and videos is undoubtedly Gianluca.
Here he is driving a luxurious convertible car, which I believe is not his?

Gianluca driving a blue convertible car

(Click on photo below to hear Gianluca singing Fly Me to the Moon)

Gian in car singing Fly Me to the Moon

Maybe the car was used for the cousin’s wedding?

Gianluca with his female cousin at her wedding reception

And then Gianluca, with his inevitable twin friends, allows himself a nice sport trip in the Tirino valley.

Gian with the Di Stefano twins

Gianluca in a boat on the river

The Tirino river valley is a beautiful green lung, rich in history, nature and culture.
It is the heart of Abruzzo.
Gianluca says: “We have to take a picture, these are indelible moments.”
That’s it Gian !!

Gianluca rinsing himself off in the Torino river

 

Beautiful places, but what an effort, in the end, a well-deserved rest!
And then, also for Gianluca, a few days in the beautiful Taormina!

 

Ganluca smiling, in whit t-shirt

It is also a good opportunity to attend the Rigoletto, the Ancient Theater, an opera directed by Placido Domingo.

Gianluca with Dave Monaco and another Rigoletto performer

Gianluca in the midst of two interpreters of Rigoletto. On the left, his friend Dave Monaco, who is also part of the Torpedine stable.

 

And so, after some effort and a lot of fun, we have reached August 15th.
Once, here in Italy, it was the only day of vacation for those who worked, today it is considered the culmination of summer: Ferragosto (literally means August grilled, that is very hot), this is the name of the feast of August 15th.
This year it is really very hot, in Sicily there was the highest temperature in Europe, almost 120 ° Faherenheit, and unfortunately there were also many fires.
There are infections of the Delta variant on the rise, but since there are so many vaccinated, the situation is under control there are no problems, for now, in hospitals.
August 15 is also the feast of the Assumption, a religious holiday, very much felt here.
So: Happy Ferragosto to all:  Daniela

 

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