And here I am with an update on the various events Il Volo participated in.
Let’s start with September 10th, when Fiorella Mannoia’s concert, held on June 3rd at the Baths of Caracalla, was broadcast on RAI1. I’ve already told you about this concert and attached the videos filmed at that moment, but now that it’s been broadcast on TV, I’m reposting the video of Fiorella and Il Volo’s moment.
On September 12th and 13th, the TIM MUSIC AWARDS took place live from the Verona Arena, where various awards are presented to outstanding singers.
On the evening of September 12th, Il Volo was also present, performing Cohen’s beautiful “Hallelujah” and then accepting the award for their “LIVE” worldwide tours. The event was broadcast live on RAI1.
The event was hosted by Carlo Conti and Vanessa Incontrada, and I’ll translate their words for you.
VANESSA= They’re always touring the world.
CONTI= They’re the most famous Italian trio, having captivated audiences on every continent for over 15 years, and tonight they’re giving us a song that’s primarily a hymn to peace.
By the way, I’m seeing a drone flying, transmitting images; those are the only drones we like to see (he’s referring to the incursion of five Russian drones into Polish territory, which were immediately shot down – applause).
And tonight their song is dedicated precisely to peace.
VANESSA = Exactly.
CONTI = And for you, it’s a chance to turn on all the lights on your phones.
VANESSA = Let’s all turn on the lights, more, more.
CONTI = A sign of peace, so that all the countries of the world can experience evenings like these, of music, joy, serenity, but above all, peace. With us, with Hallelujah:
VANESSA + CONTI = Il Volo!! (the song begins)
(The lyrics at the end of the song.)
CONTI = Il Volo.
VANESSA = At the TIM Music Awards, these three friends, amazing artists.
GIANLUCA = A round of applause also to Maestro Edmondo Savio and the orchestra of musicians, thanks to you too.
VANESSA = (hugs in greeting) Hi Ignazio, how are you?
CONTI = Thank you for this beautiful moment you gave us.
PIERO = Thank you.
CONTI = Here’s the award for you.
PIERO = How lovely!
VANESSA = (to Gianluca, to whom she gives the award) Hi, handsome boy!
GIANLUCA = (in Spanish) How are you, dear?
CONTI = (hands the award to Ignazio) Here you go for your tour.
I+G+P = Thank you, thank you.
VANESSA = So, you did a tour in the United States, some dates in Europe, and special concerts in Italy, right?
IGNAZIO = Yes, absolutely. Today was a bit of a demonstration of how music can be a bridge between different cultures, different ways of thinking, and the best thing about a tour is being able to meet different people, meet our fans, and still give people a feeling through music.
PIERO = This is a special evening because this is the first award Ignazio has received after becoming a dad. (applause)
VANESSA = It’s true! I didn’t want to pry into your private life, but… (as if to say he wanted to respect your privacy, but it’s great news)
CONTI = And you (Piero and Gianluca) are like uncles!!
CONTI = This fall, you’ll be starting your live concert tour in Latin America, then all of Europe, but most importantly, in December, you’ll be back in Italian arenas, back home.
VANESSA = Exactly!
PIERO = We’ll be back on tour in Italy, so we’re waiting for you, and thank you for the support and love you show us every day. Thank you!
VANESSA = Thank you, thank you for coming.
CONTI = And for this very important moment, thank you!
IGNAZIO = Love and respect each other, that’s all, thank you.
VANESSA+CONTI = Il Volo!!
G+I+P = Thank you, bye everyone!
What can I say? I don’t know if any of you had the chance to see the entire event, but 38 singers performed, receiving various awards, many rappers beloved by young people, often “over-the-top” figures heavily tattooed and sometimes scantily clad, and women performing in lingerie. In short, Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca always bring a touch of elegance and refinement in addition to their talent. With their song, they highlighted something precious: PEACE, and their voices rose majestically above a sea of “summer hits” that often disappear.
Once again, Il Volo stood out and was appreciated!
On September 13th, the 19th edition of GRACE FOR THE WORLD, conceived by Andrea Bocelli and Pharrell Williams, took place in St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican. The event was broadcast live on RETE4.
Among the various artists, Il Volo was also present (in addition to Bocelli, the only Italians).
It was a spectacular evening with St. Peter’s Square as a magnificent backdrop and a series of drones in the sky creating beautiful patterns.
During the evening, beautiful words of brotherhood and peace, testimonials and artists from all over the world, a magnificent choir and orchestra, and a truly unique atmosphere.
Piero Ignazio and Gianluca performed towards the end of the event with a splendid MAGNIFICAT, which we had already heard at the Jubilee of Youth, a truly solemn moment!
I also wanted to point out that before all the events I’ve just listed, Il Volo had two private events, one apparently in Greece and one in Milan.
We learned about the second one through a publication by the Franciacorta Orchestra, which follows Il Volo. They published this post, of which I’m translating a portion.
“An evening that will remain etched in our hearts ✨
Last night we had the honor and pleasure of participating in a truly unique private event, hosted in the prestigious setting of Superstudio Events in Milan. A special, elegant, and refined occasion that allowed us to experience and share unforgettable moments.
On stage, joining us, were the talented Il Volo, who conveyed authentic emotions with their music and extraordinary voices. The magical encounter between an orchestra and three internationally renowned artists created a vibrant atmosphere, combining tradition, style, and contemporary energy.”
The update is over for now. It’s been a very intense few days of television, where we saw Ignazio, Piero, and Gianluca in top form. Now they’re back at the end of September for the memorial in honor of Pavarotti.
See you soon: Daniela 🤗
…and may there be peace throughout the world….🕊️❤️
We were all waiting for the news of the birth confirmation. Gabriele was born on September 4th, and mom Michelle and dad Ignazio are incredibly happy.
No photos of the little one will be published. Furthermore, in Italy there is a law that prohibits publishing photos of children, and if they do, their faces must be blurred.
But the important thing is that Gabriele and his parents are doing well, so we are all happy for them and send a huge WELCOME to little Gabriele and many congratulations to mom and dad. ❤️💙❤️
I’m taking this post as an opportunity to recap what’s happened so far in August.
On August 24th, Il Volo was a guest on Giovanni Zarrella Show, where they performed “CAPOLAVORO.” Here’s the video.
In this video, in addition to the song, you can see a short interview with Il Volo and Giovanni Zarrella. Unfortunately, I don’t understand German, but I can translate Piero, Ignazio, and Gianluca’s answers, which are in Italian.
(The question follows in German; I assume he’s asking Il Volo about their upcoming tour)
PIERO = Yes, we’re coming to Germany in November, we’ll be doing six concerts: Berlin, Munich, Munich…there are six, Leipzig…(he also asks Ignazio for help, but they don’t remember all of them)
GIANLUCA = We’ll be performing all over Germany. We’re very happy because our Italian culture, our music, is conquering not only Italians but the whole world, and it’s truly wonderful to be able to follow in the footsteps of our idols like Bocelli, Pavarotti, and so many others. We’re very happy and proud of the support our fans are giving us.
GIOVANNI = (question in German)
IGNAZIO = For us, music has no limits, music has no barriers. Ultimately, our goal is to continue this musical genre, lyrical pop. We cannot forget the songs that have been part of Italian culture like “Il Mondo” or operas like “Nessun Dorma” and as he (Gianluca) said, maintaining the Italian tradition and following in the footsteps of greats like Bocelli, Pavarotti, this is the goal.
PIERO = I can also take this moment to thank you for what you do, for inviting us, every time we come to Germany and we come to your place, we come back to a friend’s place and officially invite you to one of our concerts. You decide which concert, we want to see you.
GIOVANNI = answers in German.
IGNAZIO = (in German but I think I understand) We love you Giovanni!
GIOVANNI = (he speaks in German)
PIERO = Look, this year we’re celebrating our almost 17 years together with a world tour and seeing the audience that has grown with us over these 17 years. What we thank our audience for is their loyalty. They’ve been following us for so many years and that’s why we do so many concerts. Without them, neither we nor you could work, so we are forever grateful to our audience.
GIOVANNI = (he speaks in German)
GIANLUCA = If you want, it would be great to sing with you one day (Giovanni is a singer as well as a presenter)
GIOVANNI = (Shakes hands as if promising and says goodbye to Il Volo)
Short video for questions during the show, backstage.
In this photo Il Volo with Ricchi e Poveri, a duo of famous Italian singers and Giovanni Zarrella.
Gianluca and Piero backstage before the performance.
Videos and photos taken during the Youth Jubilee by a foreign interviewer are still being published and are worth seeing for the beautiful messages they convey.
PIERO = To all digital missionaries and Catholic influencers I send a big hug and a great message of hope.
QUESTION = What do you think of digital missionaries, Catholic influencers?
IGNAZIO = (The interviewer is Spanish) I’ll tell you in Spanish.
(I don’t know Spanish but since it’s similar to Italian I think I can figure out what’s going on.)
I think it’s good when a good message is spread, and thanks to digital technology it can reach more people, but the most important thing is that it’s a good message.
I think it’s also very important for all young people who are approaching God, who are seeking God, and for them to discover the thoughts of other people, their experiences, and those who have come to faith.
MAN = Thank you!
IGNAZIO = You’re welcome!
And then, in August, come images of relaxation, vacations, and family.
Gianluca sends beautiful images from the Dolomites (high, distinctive mountains in northern Italy).
Ignazio remained close to his Michelle. He published beautiful photos of him and Michelle during the final stages of her pregnancy.
Piero remained in his native Sicily. During his vacation in Agrigento, there was a concert by Fiorella Mannoia, the talented singer who often performed with Il Volo. Piero went to see her concert; this article, which I’m partially translating for you, talks about Piero’s presence in the audience on the evening of the concert.
Piero Barone at Fiorella Mannoia’s concert: the tenor from Il Volo entertained the audience.
Piero Barone was among the VIP guests at Fiorella Mannoia’s concert last night at the Live Arena in Agrigento. The Il Volo singer, in top form, smiling, and open to everyone, met the Roman singer in the dressing room. From the stage, she then said: “A third of Volo came to see me this evening,” she said, smiling. “Piero, where are you…” she exclaimed from the stage. “I admire you so much, you’re wonderful!” The audience broke into a thunderous applause.
Before the show, Piero Barone also spoke to the audience, greeting some disabled guests sitting in the front row and allowing several photos to be taken.
Finally, he paused for a photo with Daniela Ciminnisi and Maria Secondo of the Solide Ali Association in Cammarata, which for years has been transporting cancer patients to various hospitals on the island and also provides wigs to women who lose their hair after undergoing chemotherapy.
On August 30th, in Abruzzo, specifically in L’Aquila (the capital of Abruzzo), the Perdonanza Celestiniana is celebrated from August 23rd to 30th.
The final day concluded with a beautiful open-air concert held in front of the beautiful Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio.
In 2019, Il Volo performed a beautiful concert, and we talked about it here:
Unfortunately, there’s no video of his entire performance, but his performance, though brief, was memorable, and the newspapers raved about it.
Bravo, Gianluca!
Gianluca commented on his presence:
“I’m proud to be from Abruzzo. Maestro Leonardo De Amicis and I have known each other since 2009, along with Piero and Ignazio (he’s the evening’s conductor and a friend since the days of Ti Lascio una Canzone, where he used to prepare the kids for the evenings).
Forgiveness is truly important to me, and I hold the spirituality of forgiveness dear.”
In Italy we will soon see our favorites on television; on Wednesday, September 10, RAI1 will broadcast Fiorella Mannoia’s concert, recorded last year at the Baths of Caracalla. Il Volo also performed a couple of songs with her.
And on September 12th and 13th, RAI1 will broadcast the TIM AWARDS evening live from the Verona Arena, and Il Volo will be among the many singers performing.
I can’t wait to see them again!
So we’ll be back soon, commenting on the performances of our beloved boys.
But, while the concert was broadcast on Canale 5 on Monday 2nd June, where were our guys????
The secret was revealed by a video posted on Instagram by Fiorello Rosario, Beppe’s brother, the Fiorello that you all know well.
Fiorello was live streaming with Biggio, an Italian television actor, each in their own room, live, Fiorello was following Sinner’s tennis match while the TV behind Biggio was showing the Il Volo concert.
Fiorello was a bit bored and wanted to end the live broadcast when he saw that Piero Barone was also among the comments and so he invited him to join them.
Piero was calm on a sofa and was following Sinner’s match, but also the Il Volo concert on Canale 5.
Laughing and joking, Fiorello asks Piero where the other two members of Il Volo are and Piero replies that he is in the hotel and also Ignazio is there in the next room, while Gianluca is in Abruzzo. Fiorello asks Piero to knock on Ignazio’s room who unaware comes to open and is live, at the same time Gianluca also appears live from Abruzzo. A comical and very natural situation is born with Fiorello and Biggio in live streaming with Il Volo. 😂😂😂
Fiorello and Biggio saw that Piero was online and wanted him to connect with them.
BIGGIO= Oh, yes, it was just postponed.
FIORELLO= But it would have been nice.
BIGGIO= Tag him (Piero)
Piero connects with them, he is relaxing in a room.
FIORELLO= Here he is!!!
PIERO= Wait, I’m looking at Sinner, I have one eye here and one eye there (he means he is watching Sinner’s tennis match on the computer, but on TV he is following the Il Volo concert.)
FIORELLO= What are you looking at?
PIERO= I’m looking at Sinner.
BIGGIO= But why don’t you look at yourself?
PIERO= I’m looking at myself in the mirror (the TV is reflected in the mirror)
FIORELLO= Who’s there now? Who’s the blonde? (Fiorello sees the TV behind Piero and Biggio)
PIERO= Vanessa Incontrada.
FIORELLO= And does she sing?
PIERO= Yes, but not now, we’re doing the gag.
FIORELLO= Spoiler first …
PIERO= Now she pretends not to know who Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca are.
BIGGIO= Ah, classic!
PIERO= Right after…. I don’t remember what the lineup is.
FIORELLO= Don’t you remember the lineup?
PIERO= No.
FIORELLO= Listen, do you live alone? Don’t you live with them? (Gian and Igna, laughter) Wait, wait, Ignazio got married, right?
PIERO= Yes, now he’s going to be a dad!
FIORELLO= Ginoble instead?
PIERO= No, he’s engaged.
FIORELLO= And you?
PIERO= I’m single.
FIORELLO= You’re single!
BIGGIO= You’re a “bird of the woods”
PIERO= Yes! So I can’t yet…..
BIGGIO= He says it with a smile, so it’s a slightly mischievous smile (meaning that maybe he could be hiding something) eh eh
FIORELLO= You’re as they say “Bird of the woods”. (that has no ties)
PIERO= For now!
FIORELLO= Wait, I’ll pause for a moment, you turn up the volume (at the Il Volo concert) and as soon as they sing you (to Piero) sing along with the TV, it’s an experiment guys….
BIGGIO= We’re making Instagram history again (in the sense that they’re making a nice, completely natural live video).
FIORELLO= Turn up the volume!!
BIGGIO= It’s at maximum!
PIERO= Wait because Vanessa is saying that Ignazio is going to be a father, I can’t sing….
FIORELLO= But now the moment comes…. What magic guys, because there the only one recorded is Barone, (he means in the concert, because Piero is live with Fiorello) and the other two (Igna and Gian) are live (laughter). 😂
BIGGIO= They don’t sing anymore!
FIORELLO= Where are you from in Sicily exactly?
PIERO= Naro, Agrigento, do you know?
FIORELLO= Agrigendo, because you speak like that (meaning with the letter D instead of T, typical of the Sicilian dialect).
PIERO= They didn’t teach us the T when we were little. (says a couple of words with the D instead of the T)
FIORELLO= We Sicilians speak in a strange way.
BIGGIO= Well, like all the regions.
FIORELLO= I was born in Catania, I lived in Augusta province of Syracuse and my parents are from the province of Messina (all Sicilian cities), I am a bastard from all of eastern Sicily.
BIGGIO= He (Piero) is watching Sinner, he doesn’t care about anything!
PIERO= No, I was listening, what is the score? 4 to 3, you know what they say in Bergamo? (a city near Brescia) “scotolone” (I don’t know what it means).
FIORELLO= This is a training match for Sinner (to say that he has an easy opponent). The next one could be a bit more annoying because today Bublik (tennis player) played well.
BIGGIO= Here they are singing (in the concert).
FIORELLO= Go! Silence! (Ignazio is singing Grande Amore) Go Piero!
PIERO= (Starts singing his part until the highest point) I won’t sing it to you or they’ll kick me out! 🥰
FIORELLO= Guys I have to tell you something, do you know who’s watching us? Ginoble and he wrote “fetosi” (Sicilian word that means disgusting). 😂😂
BIGGIO= But let him go up (means to connect), we do the whole Il Volo!!
FIORELLO= Ginoble, Ginoble, make the request please (to enter the chat with them). I saw Candela, I saw Candela. (Candela is a journalist who writes for a gossip weekly.)
BIGGIO= Candela, go with the article eh.
FIORELLO= Go with the article, otherwise I’ll copy your news Candela, I’ll publish your news and say that it’s mine! 😁 But do you know that someone copied the scoop from Candela?
BIGGIO= Really?? But which one?
FIORELLO= They copied but I don’t remember what it was.
Wait, let’s see if I catch Ginoble, if I catch Ginoble guys it’s done!! (he means if he manages to get Gianluca to join the chat).
BIGGIO= Wow, then there’s only one more thing missing.
FIORELLO= Oh but Ignazio’s recently married and is expecting a baby. He’ll be who knows where!
PIERO= No, he’s here in the hotel! In the next room.
FIORELLO= Are you in the hotel?
BIGGIO= But where are you, where are you?
PIERO= Today….in a hotel.
BIGGIO= Yes but where? What city in the world?
FIORELLO= Ginoble do something, knock on Piero’s room and go into Piero’s room.
PIERO= No, no, because Ginoble isn’t in the hotel with us, there’s only Ignazio.
BIGGIO= What are you guys doing?
PIERO= So, I arrived today from Barcelona.
FIORELLO= Wow, so you want to split up, you’re left with two of you….and you want to get rid of one….😁
PIERO= No, no, no, I’m going to Ignazio’s room, let’s see what he does?
BIGGIO= Go, go, go!
PIERO= (he gets up from the sofa) Wait, I’ll at least put on my pants….
FIORELLO= No, in your underwear!! 😂
BIGGIO= No, without, in your underwear!!!😂
PIERO= No what? In my underwear?😁
BIGGIO= But then Candela, what will she write if you go in pants? Instead, if you go in your underwear, the article will come out tomorrow. 😁
PIERO= Wait, I’ll put on my shoes too.
FIORELLO= I mean, guys, where, but where do you have live broadcasts like this? We were dead….(meaning that the chat was boring then Piero arrived and now Gian and Igna are arriving too)
PIERO= Where is the hotel key? Damn me for contacting you.
FIORELLO= We were dead, at least I was dead (meaning bored) then we got a hold of it by watching television, we saw Barone live, we called him…..
PIERO= Wait, I have to do something first.
FIORELLO= Go!
BIGGIO= What do you have to do?
PIERO= What is the reception service usually? 9 I think?
BIGGIO= What do you have to do with the reception?
PIERO= Ignazio’s room, I can’t knock on another one, I know it’s next door but I don’t know which one. (in the meantime he has activated the internal telephone of the hotel) “Hi, can I ask you which room is Boschetto?”
FIORELLO= But where is Ginoble, where is Ginoble? (he is always following the live chat)
BIGGIO= Wait Piero is asking for Ignazio’s room. What room is it?
PIERO= 3 and something? (the live image of Gianluca appears)
BIGGIO= Here is Ginoble!!
GIANLUCA= Fetosi!!! (It’s a Sicilian dialect word that can have many interpretations, in this case I would say: rascals).
PIERO= I’m going to him thanks!
GIANLUCA= Fetosi!
FIORELLO= We’re competing with Canale 5.
GIANLUCA= But really, here we’re taking away five thousand viewers from Canale 5.
PIERO= Wait, wait, I have Ignazio’s room.
FIORELLO= Ginoble what were you doing? You’re too disheveled.
GIANLUCA= Hey, wait (he fixes his hair a bit).
BIGGIO= Let’s have an acoustic session!
FIORELLO= I read in SUPERGUIDA TV (a weekly newspaper) article ready this evening!
PIERO= One minute. (he signals for silence as he knocks on Ignazio’s door)
GIANLUCA= Why don’t we finally have a jam session….
BIGGIO= Wait guys, he’s knocking on Ignazio’s room!
FIORELLO= Attention, stop, stop.
PIERO= (he knocks on the door) Room service! 😂
FIORELLO= Room service …..you show him your cell phone so he can see all four of us.
PIERO= If he answers naked though…..😂
BIGGIO= Better, better! 🤣
PIERO= …….I take full responsibility! 😁
FIORELLO= Accepted.
PIERO= (he knocks again and a surprised Ignazio in a t-shirt and boxers opens the door)
FIORELLO= (everyone continues to laugh) You’re live, guys! Think about it, this is real television, on Channel 5 you’re live….😁
PIERO= Stop, stop guys! (he frames Ignazio’s camera). He (Ignazio) is watching Sinner and he’s not watching TUTTI PER UNO, he has the TV off.
BIGGIO= Him too! (he means that Ignazio is also watching Sinner), no come on, guys!
PIERO= Yes, and he has the TV off.
GIANLUCA= Now Pier Silvio (Administrator of Mediaset-Canale 5) is calling us here guys!
FIORELLO= Yes because we are competing. Ignazio, best wishes!
IGNAZIO= Thanks, damn you (then he says in Sicilian) but don’t you have other things to do??
GIANLUCA= Ignazio speaks in Italian.
BIGGIO= No guys, I wouldn’t understand otherwise!
IGNAZIO= But why Italian?
GIANLUCA= Because otherwise he doesn’t understand (Fiorello, Piero and Ignazio are Sicilian but Gianluca now understands the Sicilian dialect well).
IGNAZIO= Oh, sorry!!
FIORELLO= So, we’re doing a live broadcast, because Ignazio doesn’t know. It was a normal live broadcast, me and Biggio alone, we were commenting on Sinner, at a certain point we see Barone who was watching us and….but how, he’s live on Canale 5, it’s not possible…. and then we called him, he immediately connected. Ginoble, who had a woman in the room, left her there and joined us!! 🤣😂
IGNAZIO= Ah!!! 😁
FIORELLO= Do you understand, because he (Gian) doesn’t say anything to you, do you see that he has worked hair?? 😂🤣
IGNAZIO= Yes. 😁
GIANLUCA= Look, I’m at home, I’m at home.
BIGGIO= Why aren’t you with them at the hotel?
GIANLUCA= I’ll arrive tomorrow.
IGNAZIO= Because he always minds his own business! 😁
GIANLUCA= Because they are from Sicily, it’s further from Rome (the next day they have to meet in Rome and Gianluca arrives the same day because there’s not much distance from Montepagano to Rome, so he sleeps at home).
FIORELLO= Are you going to Sicily now?
BIGGIO= What for?
IGNAZIO= He (Piero) is going to Sicily, his brother is getting married.
FIORELLO= Who, Ginoble’s brother?
PIERO= No, my brother.
FIORELLO= Who spoke?
PIERO= My brother is getting married, I have to be a best man, I’m a best man for my sister-in-law…😁
FIORELLO= Let’s not say where he’s getting married because then all the people will come there. 😁
PIERO= Right, good! 😉
IGNAZIO= In Sambuco (Sicily)
GIANLUCA= (to Fiorello) You make fun of my hair but you cut your hair! (he says it in Abruzzo dialect).
FIORELLO= Look at my hair!!
GIANLUCA= What hair you have!
IGNAZIO= Anyway, I was watching Sinner and if you don’t mind, I’ll continue watching Sinner.
FIORELLO= Wait, it’s four all in the third set.
IGNAZIO= Four all in the third set!
FIORELLO= Wait. Biggio, put on Channel 5, let’s see what they’re doing there live.
BIGGIO= But it’s Channel 5, there’s advertising.
GIANLUCA= Advertising. Now let’s pay tribute to Franco Battiato.
FIORELLO= Come on, come on.
BIGGIO= Go, beautiful!
FIORELLO= Silence, I’m pausing, go! (he thinks Il Volo sings in chat)
GIANLUCA= No, no, on TV (in the concert), soon.
BIGGIO= Oh soon.
FIORELLO= With which song?
GIANLUCA= “TI VENGO A CERCARE”
FIORELLO= Make me a piece here, slowly.
I+P+G= And I come to look for you…… (They start singing the chorus but then stop)
BIGGIO= They don’t know the words. 😁
GIANLUCA= (he says a few lines of the song then asks Fiorello to continue).
FIORELLO= (he follows the music and says this) I don’t know the words and I have to invent them….
PIERO= Only he knows them (in concert it was a solo by Gianluca)
P+I= (Piero and Ignazio intervene singing a very famous song by Battiato and then Gianluca and Fiorello join in with Biggio singing).
FIORELLO= We are better than Channel 5. Anyway look at Ginoble’s culture, so many books.
GINOBLE= No, these are just… I’m doing it on purpose, you understand? (he jokes)
BIGGIO= Is it furniture?
GIANLUCA= Yes, they are furniture, they are fake, there is nothing there.
FIORELLO= So Ginoble, you are in Rome.
GIANLUCA= No, I am in Abruzzo in Roseto degli Abruzzi.
FIORELLO= Guys, I don’t want to take up any more of your time, but this live broadcast with you has been truly fantastic, while you are live on Channel 5, that is, recorded on Channel 5, you are live here!
PIERO= Don’t talk bullshit, we are live (he jokes because everyone knows that the concert is recorded).
FIORELLO= It’s true, we are the ones registered (he plays along)
PIERO= There’s still advertising (on TV at the concert)
GIANLUCA= There’s advertising and we went backstage to call Fiorello!
FIORELLO= We are the ones registered here.
IGNAZIO= Yes, but we would like to greet you in our own way.
FIORELLO= What??
I+P= The two of them start singing and Gianluca joins in right away and they start singing TIRICHITOLLA, a slightly mischievous Sicilian song that they always perform when Fiorello is there! 😁
FIORELLO= So, long live delirium, long live Il Volo!!!! Bye guys thanks (he sends a kiss), awesome! 🤣
FIORELLO= No guys, but they are out of their minds, how is it possible crazy things!! 😂😂😂
These guys are truly incredible, Fiorello is engaging, Biggio has been his “sidekick” for a long time but credit to Piero, Gianluca and Ignazio who kindly participated in the live chat without it being prepared, delightful to see them like three ordinary guys in their private moments, disheveled, dressed just enough, but always adorable.
In the end Piero and Ignazio were in Rome because the next day Il Volo was participating as a guest at the Fiorella Mannoia concert from the Baths of Caracalla. Gianluca, living in Abruzzo, doesn’t have a long way to reach Rome and so he was at home and would have arrived the next day.
So, I immediately propose the complete video of the very beautiful moment of Fiorella Mannoia and Il Volo.
What can I say, Fiorella was one of the first Italian female singers of a certain importance to duet with Il Volo. I remember that just after Sanremo 2015 in an interview the guys were asked why they didn’t duet with Italian female singers and they replied that there was a sort of snobbery on the part of Italian female singers.
Perhaps this was always due to the haughty image that journalists had painted of Il Volo.
Now I realize that all the singers have really gotten to know the character of our guys and I note with pleasure that with everyone there is a sort of nice camaraderie that really pleases me. 🥰
I had told you that many newspapers had written articles about the concerts in Mantua, one in particular seemed really well written and with a lot of nice and deserved praise for our guys, it was published by TUTTO NOTIZIE, I’ll translate it for you.
IL VOLO, WHY THE TRIO DRIVES ITALIANS CRAZY: THE REASON BEYOND MUSIC
Il Volo – Tutti per uno: a grand finale of emotion and Italian pride, but why does this wonderful musical trio drive everyone crazy? There are reasons that go beyond music.
Magic has returned to fill the screens of Canale 5 with the third and final episode of Il Volo – Tutti per uno – Viaggio nel tempo, aired on Monday 2 June 2025. A highly anticipated event, which saw the trio formed by Piero Barone, Ignazio Boschetto and Gianluca Ginoble conclude in grand style a season that has managed to combine tradition, emotion and entertainment. The setting chosen for the epilogue could not have been more evocative: Palazzo Te in Mantua, one of the jewels of the Italian Renaissance, which was the backdrop to an evening designed to celebrate music and culture in all its forms.
Alongside them, once again, a female presence capable of enchanting and entertaining: Vanessa Incontrada. Her fresh and engaging hosting added vivacity to a show already full of intense moments and surprising collaborations. The strength of Tutti per uno lies precisely in this: in the ability to mix the cards, to make accessible and fascinating even what is usually perceived as “niche music”. And when duets, stories and tributes to the great Italian musical tradition alternate on stage, the result can only be a success.
Il Volo, why does everyone like the musical trio? It drives Italians crazy.
The audience, at home and in the stalls, responded with enthusiasm. It’s not just a question of ratings: it’s a question of shared emotion. In an often fragmented and fast-paced television landscape, Il Volo manages to bring attention back to a way of putting on a show that doesn’t compromise on quality. Every note, every dialogue, every tribute to our musical history becomes an occasion for pride and belonging. But what makes Il Volo so loved by Italians? The answer must be sought in their uniqueness, in the strength of a project that has managed to remain coherent over time, while evolving intelligently.
The trio, formed in 2009, has chosen from the beginning to go against the grain. In an era dominated by pop, trap and increasingly standardized international rhythms, Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca have decided to focus everything on the lyrical-classical repertoire. A genre that, for many, seemed destined for a niche audience. Instead, they have brought it back to the center of the scene, they have made it accessible, modern, exciting.
One of the secrets of their success is precisely this: the ability to enhance tradition without being anachronistic. Their interpretations of songs like ‘O Sole Mio, Grande Amore, Volare, or international classics like My Way and Nessun Dorma, have become a symbol of an Italy that does not forget its roots, but expresses them with strength and pride in the world. Their vocal talent is indisputable. You don’t need great musical knowledge to recognize the excellence of their performances. Even those who are not particularly passionate about the genre are struck by the power, precision, and emotion they can convey with their voice. And this is a rare gift.
Young people who speak to different generations
There is another fundamental element: the ability to speak to different generations. Adults find in their concerts the melodies that have accompanied important moments in their lives. Young people, on the other hand, discover, or rediscover, a part of Italian music that is often undervalued, but which thanks to Il Volo comes back to life. Families follow them because they represent a “clean”, elegant, quality proposal, capable of uniting rather than dividing.
Il Volo has thus become a transversal phenomenon, a point of reference for those who seek something more in music than a simple hit on the charts. Their path has not always been easy, but the coherence and humility with which they have faced it has rewarded them. In a world of entertainment that often consumes talent quickly, they have managed to build a solid, international career, without ever giving up their own identity. Perhaps this is precisely what makes them so beloved. The trio has become, over the years, a symbol of Italian excellence, a bridge between past and present, between tradition and innovation.
This is why the love that Italians feel for them goes beyond music. In fact, they have become a true symbol not only of Italianness and tradition, but also of a desire to return to the ‘pure’ and the ‘simple’. We saw it, after all, also this year at the Sanremo Festival. It would seem, in fact, that Italians want to rediscover the traditional music that has made the history of the country. A return, therefore, also to the singer-songwriters that have made Italy one of the first in the world for intelligence of lyrics and emotional musicality.
Well, what can I say, I felt really proud reading this, I think that finally many journalists are really noticing our jewels.
Now I’m waiting for some nice reviews from the vocal coaches and that I will surely propose to you.
I hope you also enjoyed knowing what was said in the live chat with Fiorello, of course you know how to catch the funny side of the whole situation.
Soon our guys will be in Mallorca, so soon they will be back on stage.
For now I say goodbye with a nice video that our RoseMarie sent me, thank you!!
We all watched intently as each concert was performed live on May 1st and 3rd. So many people were Live Streaming. It didn’t take long before the entire concert was on YouTube.
Mediasetinfinity, Canale 5 in Italy
Then we waited for the concerts on Mediasetinfinity. Of course, there were many people streaming which was good because most people don’t have Italian cable.
Many of you immediately noticed a difference from the live concert to the televised program. People were saying but it was raining and now it’s not. That’s because when it was edited, the two concerts came together and then were split into two programs. They did a great job of editing. They gave us two absolutely amazing programs. Two nights of sheer pleasure! Double the Pleasure!
Let’s move on to the venue ~ the Arena di Verona.
The introduction of the first concert makes us aware of where we are in this vast world. We are small among the treasures of the world that span time and eternity! It’s always amazing to see the Arena di Verona from above. It gives you a sense of time immortal.
The Verona Arena is a Roman amphitheater built in 30 AD. It is one of the best-preserved ancient structures of its kind. In ancient times, the arena’s capacity was nearly 30,000 people. Concerts and operas demand a lot of stage space so for performances today the space has decreased. The maximum capacity today is approximately 22,000.
The voices that rise from this amazing Arena resound throughout the city and pass well into our lives by the videos and programs produced within its walls.
There has never been a moment that the guys were on this stage that we didn’t feel the enormity of their voices. This Arena was meant to be a place where performers like Il Volo could show us their amazing worth, their amazing voices.
There is a gradual crescendo as their voices rise from the stage to the walls of antiquity and encircle the Arena spinning high into the night sky; forever captured in time and space!
Il Volo forever!
On to the Stage
The stage is totally awesome. It’s like watching two concerts. There is so much going on behind the guys that I think they even stop to look once in a while. Lights have become a big part of their production.
The motions in the background produces unbelievably beautiful scenery. It is constantly changing. Using backgrounds that are in motion elevates the experience by creating movement towards and away from the entertainer. It is the means by which the audience is drawn into the production. It adds dimension and life to the presentation.
Of course, the audience also participates in this background production when they join in with the lights of their cell phones. Think of how impressive it is to see a sea of lights before you while singing. A treat for the guys!
The Orchestra
When Marcello Rota walks on the stage the production is ready.
Marcello Rota is an Italian conductor. Some of the famous Orchestras he has conducted are the Asti Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana, the Orchestra Sinfonica Siciliana, the orchestra of the Munich Staatsoper, the Berlin Philharmonic, the National Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the Moscow Philharmonic, the Buenos Aires Philharmonic, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.
Besides Il Volo, he has collaborated with Andrea Bocelli on his numerous world tours.
On September 27, 1997, on the occasion of the 23rd National Eucharistic Congress, Rota participated in the mega-concert at the Caab in Bologna, with Bocelli and several other artists including Bob Dylan. They performed in the presence of Pope John Paul II.
His lyric repertoire includes over 40 titles, notably by Rossini, Bellini, Donizetti, Verdi and Puccini.
Now that’s a repertoire that our guys know well!
The TV Concerts
In both concerts, the guys opened with Granada. The perfect song to open with. Granada adds to the majesty of this amazing arena because it is a song that spans time. It always pleases and the way our guys sing it is amazing. Above all, it was the perfect place to present their new version of this amazing song. They reintroduced us to their three amazing and, so we found out, very different voices. Classical, Soul and Pop!
After singing Grande Amore, the guys introduced their first guests.
The Pooh is an Italian band that came together in 1966 in Bologna. When Il Volo started out, they were the first group to invite them to sing in concert. They are very close friends, and our guys love them and appreciate all of their encouragement over the years. The guys sang a medley of Pooh songs. Tanta Voglia di Lei, Pensiero, Chi Fermerà La Musica, and Uomini Soli.
After the performance, Pooh gave this advice to the guys:
We have never followed trends, don’t do this either and you will always be personal.
My advice instead is this, there are three of you, alone you represent 30%, instead together you represent 3000%, this is the strength of the group, remember this.
I believe that the Pooh’s real success was a little talent and a lot of passion, the same talent and the same passion that I see in your eyes and in your career, and this is a good sign for you.
Beautiful advice from beautiful people. They certainly know Il Volo!
Next we meet the beautiful Frederica Panicucci who will be the presenter of the concert.
Federica explains that during the evening Il Volo will show unpublished moments with solos and duets they never performed before. It will be their way of showing their different personalities.
Yes Federica is right, that night was different because we’ve heard these voices before but not in the way we heard them that night. The guys introduced us to their personal feelings about their music.
A great example of this is in Ignazio’s words before both concerts:
In the first concert Ignazio said, “I’ve always loved great female voices….”
And in the second concert he said, “I will try to take a trip to the most beautiful female songs in the world tonight.
When Ignazio said this, he brought me back to his childhood. If you recall in Ignazio’s story he talks about meeting Lilliana Adreanò, his singing teacher, for the first time. She asked Ignazio what kinds of songs he likes to sing and Ignazio replies, “You know, Liliana, I like to sing Giorgia’s songs.” Lilliana said: “Strange for a kid to sing this kind of song.”
So, it seems Ignazio still enjoys singing these (female) songs. And why wouldn’t he? He is the only one of the three that can sing that kind of song because they are songs that require a strong voice that is very clear, crisp and very lyrical and a lot of passion must be put into each song! I think I just described Ignazio’s voice! Let me add and, “very soulful!”
We meet the real Gianluca in his rock mode and he introduces us to his feelings for Elvis, Sinatra, Dylan and the Beatles.
Piero brings us his perfect operatic voice. Whimsical and joyful. He has a great love and sincerity for this music. Opera is in his soul. He opens up that soul to us in these concerts with arias we have never heard before.
Amid a thousand points of light that sparkled like stars in the night sky, our guys were the brightest stars on the stage. They showed not just their love for one another’s music but their love and appreciation for the music of the other performers.
During their solos, the other two guys sit on the side stage and listen. In these moments, we see the admiration these men have for one another. Truly amazing!
This was a nice way of presenting each of them.
I remember Piero saying, in his story, that when he did a solo he couldn’t wait for it to end when Ignazio and Gianluca would return. He has to love this new arrangement.
These concerts were different. They show a beautiful evolution from where the guys were to where they are now. Their new direction! Their future!
This new arrangement is thrilling because there is a lot of feeling in the music. The songs they have sung from the beginning have always had feeling but in a different way.
Here we feel each man’s thoughts, ideas and mindset. In the soul of each man there is a longing to bring you their music unlike you’ve ever heard it before. It is the movement within their souls when they sing. They were restless to release these feelings and make you feel what they feel. They bring a feeling of sheer bliss to each note in each song. Think about expressing your feelings for someone you love. Put that to music and you have each guy’s mindset.
Of course, they have not departed from their Bel Canto.
What is a concert without Nessun Dorma.
Or, Surrender and O Sole Mio
Now let’s listen to some of the beautiful solos that we have never heard before.
Let’s start with Piero singing Viva il Vino Spumeggiante (Long Live the Sparkling Wine) the beautiful aria from Cavalleria Rusticana. This is one of my favorite operas and every time Piero sings one of the arias, he brings joy to my heart. His voice is so ready for La Scala.
Gianluca choses Bob Dylans song Knockin’ on Heavens Door to express a feeling of loss and grief. It is a very poignant song, and we can feel Gianluca’s heart in it. A very beautiful delivery!
Ignazio sings a Loredana Bertè medley. From the pop of Sei Bellissimo (You are Beautiful) to the very reggae of È Luna Bussò (The Moon Knocked) Ignazio is singing out his soul.
Reggae is a music style that was strongly influenced by American jazz and rhythm and blues. Like Loredana, Ignazio was inspired by jazz and rhythm and blues. Both Loredana and Ignazio were fans of Pino Daniele. In fact, Loredana sang with Pino Daniele. No wonder this was a choice for Ignazio. Loredana is the sister of Mia Martina who Ignazio dedicates Almeno tu Nell’universo to. This is truly the soul of Ignazio!
Ignazio with Fiorella Mannoia accompanied by Danilo Rea on piano sing the very sophiscated pop song Una Ragione di Più (One more reason)
Gianluca and Irama sing the very beautiful La Cura (the Cure) which was written by Italian songwriter Battiato. He wrote the song for his lady when he discovered she had a serious illness. Gianluca and Irama sing this song from depths of their hearts.
Piero and Aida Garifullina sing Libiamo ne, i lieti calici from La Traviata. This is an absolutely delightful and whimsical delivery. Notice how comfortable Piero is on stage with this amazing soprano! The voices blend beautifully!
It’s time for a great comedian, Giorgio Panariello.
Giorgio tells us the plot of the film Nuovo Cinema Paradiso by Giuseppe Tornatore.
This is followed by the guys singing Se.
After they sing, Panariello returns to have some fun with the guys!
Panariello tries to convince the boys that being three is not good and proposes himself as the fourth element for Il Volo.
He challenges the guys to sing Nessun Dorma with him to see if he wins the role of the fourth Il Volo. He repeats VINCERÒ and in the highest moment, he doesn’t sing he says, “I will win….a draw is enough for me”.
Of course, Ignazio get hysterical!
The guys and Panariello sing an Italian song Il Pullover and now we can truly witness four amazing entertainers who can sing and joke together.
I am a longtime fan of Panariello and I am happy he was included in this concert!
When Panariello leaves, he says “But we are friends……(it’s true they are)….don’t call me anymore in your concerts!”
Panariello is a very funny man with a very dry sense of humor that makes you laugh out loud!
Over the last few years, the guys have been singing Hallelujah. Before they begin the song, Ignazio explains how the guys feel about this song.
Ignazio:Now is a very emotional moment for us, we have decided to sing this next song to reach all the people who have suffered in these years, to all the people who continue to suffer, and to all those people who unfortunately today, we, they watch from up there. Let’s hope that our song, our thoughts, can reach them up there.
There are no words! One magical moment and people respond by lighting up their hearts through the lights on their cell phones.
This song goes deep and touches everyone’s heart. No need to change voices here, you can feel the guy’s voices in this song.
Let’s go back to some duets!
The guys mix it up with Antonello Venditti. They sing Che Fantastica Storia è La Vita (What a Fantastic Story Life is). They can sing anything with anybody!
Back to two amazing songs L’Amore si move and Musica Che Resta. These are two songs that I love and they never sing in New York. Are you listening guys?
Federica returns to the stage for her next round of questions. She immediately asks Gianluca what gift Piero would like to receive on his birthday. Gianluca replies, “a nice tennis racket,” of course, Ignazio jokingly says that he would have given him “a watering can for the flower on his jacket!”
Next, Federica asks Ignazio what superpower Gianluca would like to have and Ignazio replies “the power to lengthen his legs.”
She then asks Piero to tell some funny story of Ignazio and Piero replies, “In Vienna Ignazio greeted the public saying….‘Good evening Berlin.’ ”
Federica compliments the boys on the tour they just finished and a video of beautiful images starts. Federica asks what is the best memory.
Gianluca:Seeing people’s faces is oxygen for us and a privilege. We are young and we are living the life we have always wanted to live, and it is amazing how this music overcomes the barrier of language, and reaches all ages, and we are proud to be able to give these emotions to all of you.
At this point they do a tribute to Italian singer-songwriter: Sergio Endrigo.
This is just a part of the tribute. You can see the complete tribute in the full video of the concert below.
A few solos before I close.
Piero singing Voglio Vivere Così reminds me of Sunday mornings at my grandparents’ house. After church my grandparent would put on all their favorite operas and we would listen to them while we had breakfast. My grandparents loved opera and Neapolitan Songs! They would have loved Il Volo!
Magnificent! I feel Pavaroti in Piero’s voice!
I talked about Ignazio’s tribute to Mia Martina. Now I present it because we all need that moment when Ignazio brings down the house. Oh, excuse me he does that in every solo! God bless his amazing voice!
Gianluca presents a Beatles medley. Gianluca is becoming very comfortable in this new direction! His fondness for 50’s, 60’s and 70’s music seems to be his niche as he is moving forward!
Orietta Berti is a pop and folk singer whose popularity began is the 1960’s. She is revered in the entertainment industry as is evident when she steps on the stage and Ignazio bows and praises her. In 2021 Fedez, Achille Lauro and Orietta Berti published a hit song Mille. In a duet with Ignazio Orietta sings Quando L’amore Diventa Poesia.
I can think of no better way to end these concerts than with an icon in the music industry. The guys were honored to sing with Orietta.
So how do I end this story? I’m finished but it is not over. Two new collaborations came out of these concerts. The guys will sing in concert with Pooh and it seems they are anxious to have Aida Garifullina back in concert. Aida wrote in her story today, “Thank you! There is more to come.” I’m sure with the success of these two concerts there will be more concerts like these in the future!
And where did we leave the guys? With their new Classical, Soul and Pop sounds we will follow them to the ends of the earth in any direction they choose. We always knew that they were phenomenal individuals. We knew they had heart, and we always knew they gave their all but now we know that they can Double the Pleasure of their performances with their individually and personal feelings and lead us to Double the Pleasure in every concert!
As always, I use Daniela’s translations because they are the best. Daniela has posted the first translation of the concerts and the translation of the second concert program will be posted soon.
Thank you to Alessandra for compiling the Playlist for me! After the playlist you will find the second concert program.
First concert playlist…. – Granada – Grande Amore – Medley of Pooh’s songs: Tanta voglia di lei, Pensiero, Chi fermerà la musica, Uomini soli – Almeno tu nell’universo (Ignazio) – Suspicious Minds (Gianluca) – Viva il vino spumeggiante aria da Cavalleria Rusticana (Piero) – Nessun dorma – Meravigliosa creatura (Piero e Gianna Nannini) – Surrender/O’ sole mio – When the party’s over (Ignazio e Francesca Michielin) – Io che non vivo – Shallow (Gianluca e Annalisa) – My way -La cura (Gianluca e Irama) – Ovunque sarai (Il Volo e Irama) – Libiamo ne, i lieti calici da La Traviata (Piero e Aida Garifullina) – Se telefonando – E lucevan le stelle da Tosca (Piero) – Se – Hallelujia – Voglio vivere così (Piero) – My heart will go on (Ignazio) – Girotondo intorno al mondo – What a wonderful world (Gianluca) – Piove – Knocking on heaven’s door (Gianluca) – Les pecheurs de perles (Piero e Gianfranco Montresor) – My immortal (Ignazio) – Here’s to you
Second concert playlist….
– Granada – Il mondo – Medley of Venditti’s songs: Alta marea (with Gianluca), Amici mai (with Ignazio), Ricordati di me (with Piero), Che fantastica storia è la vita (all together) – Sei bellissima/E la luna bussò (Ignazio) – Crazy little thing called love (Gianluca) – La mia canzone al vento (Piero) – Una ragione di più (Ignazio with Fiorella Mannoia and Danilo Rea at the piano) – Un amore così grande – Geordie (Gianluca with Madame) – A chi mi dice – Can’t help falling in love with you (Gianuca) – Miserere (Piero with Mario Biondi) – You make me feel like natural woman (Ignazio with Mario Biondi) – Ancora – L’amore si muove/Musica che resta – Addio alla madre da Cavalleria Rusticana (Piero) – Nel blù dipinto di blù – E poi (Ignazio) – Angel (Gianluca with Aida Garifullina) – Una poesia anche per te (Ignazio) – Quando l’amore diventa poesia (Ignazio with Orietta Berti -No puede ser (Piero) – Medley of Beatles’ songs: The long and winding road/Yesterday/Hey Jude – I will always love you (Ignazio) – Caruso
Now for your listening pleasure The Second Program of the Concert…
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.
My plan this week was to talk about the opening of the World Tour. It turns out it’s that and so much more. Over the past week many things have happened that need to be mentioned here. All that’s important in the lives of these three young men, Family, Country & Music, are up front and present in my story today.
We know that the Holy Father, Pope Francis has great love and respect for these young men. He sees them as an example of how young people should live their lives. They have respect for their families and for life in general. Always putting family first. And always trying to please everyone!
So, I will start my story today with an event at the Vatican which the guys will, at the request of Pope Francis, participate in! The World Meeting of Families ~ The Festival of Families
Family
If there is one thing I can tell you for certain about these young men it is that they truly love His Holiness, Pope Francis. And I can tell you for certain that the Holy Father truly loves them. They have shared many wonderful moments together, but none greater than singing the Ave Maria Mater Misericordiae at World Youth Day in Panama in 2019.
This event is entitled “The Beauty of the Family.” The Press Office explained, “rather than giving speeches and theories on families, people will give voice to witness. The choice of presenters, artists and those who will speak is designed to promote their experience as Christian families. For this reason, the presentation is entrusted to Amadeus and his wife Giovanna Civitillo. As for the artistic presence, the young artists ‘Il Volo’ together with some of their relatives, will participate by recounting their own family experience and proposing some musical pieces.”
The Holy Father recognized that the families of Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca made many sacrifices so that these young men could go out into the world and present their beautiful Bel Canto.
In the beginning the boys were 15 and 16 years old and so it was necessary for a member of their family to travel with them. These families found themselves in a very difficult situation having to choose which parent would travel and which would stay home with the other children. These were very difficult times for them, and they made great sacrifices to do this. While they were with their sons, they left the other children behind. And when the boys were old enough to travel on their own another sacrifice had to be made; not seeing their sons for long periods of time.
The parents of Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca realized that the gift that each of these boys was given was a gift from God and through the presence of God in their lives they were able to deal with the situation and share their amazing sons with the world.
This truly is what this conference is about. Families sharing their love and supporting each other. The result of their story is these families gave to the world three truly amazing men who appreciate the value of family and put their families first above all else in life.
Congratulations to the families of Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca!
Country
Piero, Ignazio and Gianluca had the honor of singing the Mameli, the National Anthem of Italy, on June 2nd Republic Day before Sergio Mattarella the President of the Republic of Italy.
Also, in the Grandstand was Pietro Grasso former President of the Senate. He was very pleased to see the guys again. You will recall Mr. Grasso was the man who sang every song along with the guys when they did their Christmas Concert for the Senate in December 2014.
Mr. Grasso left the Senate to become the Acting President of Italy when Giorgio Napolitano resigned as President. He was the president from January 4, 2015, to February 3, 2015 when Sergio Mattarella the present President was sworn in.
For these young men, singing the National Anthem was a very proud moment in their lives because they are proud to be Italian and they are proud to be Ambassadors representing their country through song around the world
Music
Anyone who knows Il Volo knows one of their signature songs is “Caruso.”
Lucio Dalla was the composer of “Caruso” (1986), a song dedicated to the last days of Italian opera tenor Enrico Caruso. The song, dedicated to the tenor became an Italian national anthem abroad. It was the identifying song for the world of Dalla’s entire career. Nine million copies were sold. It was reinterpreted by among others Luciano Pavarotti and Andrea Bocelli. And most recently and most importantly it was reinterpreted by our guys, Il Volo and it became one of those songs we look forward to hearing in their concerts.
A Concert tribute to Lucio Dalla was held at the Verona Arena on June 3rd with many stars singing Dalla songs, including Il Volo. This thrilling event was prerecorded at the Arena di Verona on June 2nd and presented on Raiuno on June 3rd. The presenters of the evening were Carlo Conti and Fiorella Mannoia.
The Concert in tribute to Lucio Dalla at the Verona Arena was a great party in the name of the music of one of the most loved songwriters of all time.
The World Tour Begins
Go out into the world and share the voice God gave you!
The new World Tour is about the old and the new and the two years in-between. It’s the best picture of what the guys have been doing these last two years when they were separated from us.
The big thing, they worked on new songs. Thus ~ Il Volo Sings Morricone!
They came on Instagram and Facebook and sang for us! One memorable moment from those songs is included in this concert.
They expanded their own horizons! Read what I have to say about Piero.
And they chose a set list that is very different from the past. All very beautiful songs. Something for everyone’s taste. Different…
The Ecstasy of Gold ~ Nessun Dorma ~ Un Amore Cosi Grande ~ Se Telefonando ~ Se ~ Your Love ~ Your Song ~ All By Myself ~ La Donna è Mobile ~ No Puede Ser ~ E Lucevan le Stelle ~ Hallelujah ~ My Way ~ Here’s to You ~ Delilah ~ Can’t help Falling in Love ~ Musica che Resta ~ L’amore si Muove ~ Nel Blu Dipinto di Blu ~ O Sole Mio/ Surrender ~ Granada ~ Libiamo Ne’ Lieti Calici ~ Caruso ~ Io Che Non Vivo Senza Te ~ Il Mondo ~ Grande Amore
There is so much to say about the production, but I will save that for another day. Instead, I will talk about the songs and the guys!
A good place to start is with the duets….
The duets in this concert were phenomenal! I will start with the duet between Ignazio and Gianluca. It is their prayer for those who were not as lucky as we were.
It’s very appropriate that Gianluca and Ignazio chose to present a prayer in this concert. Recognizing all that was, all that is and all that still remains, it is in the end, an expression of hope. The song Ignazio and Gianluca chose was the song Ignazio sang to us during COVID. You will recall each of the guys sang a prayer for us. Piero sang the “Ave Maria,” Ignazio sang “Hallelujah,” and Gianluca sang “You Raise Me up.” I remember this was at the high point in the pandemic and we were all very sad and very sensitive and they calmed our fears with their beautiful voices. We were all touched by this, and I wrote a column for each guy and his song.
This is what Ignazio had to say about the song they chose….
When we had to decide what to sing … We sang many songs together but this year we wanted something very special. So, one day I called Gianluca, and I said, ‘Why don’t we sing a prayer?’ We are living through a period of … I say it in Gianluca’s way… Bad time… We all have been through a very bad time and … We decided to sing a very significant song, it was in the pandemic, and it still is today. Let’s pretend it is a prayer, a prayer for everything that is happening and that has happened in the past months and unfortunately continues to happen. Let’s think about Covid…. now in Ukraine and Russia…. So, we want to address this prayer to those who are not making it, to those who are suffering, to those who are not as fortunate as us…
Their rendition of Hallelujah was very touching and very expressive. Ignazio articulates very well, and he has such beautiful diction, his words just flow on the air. Ignazio’s beautiful voice expresses the beauty of this song which leads us to a supreme experience. It brought me to tears. A truly beautiful delivery by both our tenor and baritone.
Next, I want to talk about the duet between Piero and Ignazio ~ “La Donna è Mobile.”
How did Piero feel about this duet…? Piero said when Ignazio proposed they do this duet, he replied that he was crazy, but then they tried to do it by themselves and they had fun, so they called the management and proposed singing this duet from Rigoletto.
This is a song everyone knows. For me, in this concert, it brought back memories of Ignazio’s childhood. You will recall in their book, Un’avventura Straordinaria, Ignazio said….
I always liked to sing, to be ‘in the middle’ of the music. And more and more passionately I began to understand how to use Nina’s famous pianola. I learned how to start the musical bases and flipping through them I discovered ‘La Donna è Mobile.’
In short, I began to like it so much that I sang with that base, inventing words. Now the exact words that I invented, I do not remember, but for sure my song was about Luciano Pavarotti. Why? Because as a child I always saw him on television and he always had a huge handkerchief in his hand, so I invented a text with Pavarotti and his handkerchief.
And so, I sang on the air of ‘La Donna è Mobile’not knowing what was on the horizon and what we would have to deal with in those years.
Was Ignazio thinking of his childhood, his first performance when they chose this song?
Beyond my memories of Ignazio’s childhood, I have to say their presentation was absolutely phenomenal! The tenor and the spinto tenor showed their true colors! They could have been singing on the stage of the MET! True opera singers in their delivery and expression! Absolutely phenomenal! Yes, Ignazio you do sing opera!
While I’m talking about Piero, I want to give you some of my thoughts about our spinto tenor. Piero’s voice which always was amazing, always was powerful, and his presentation which always produced phenomenal climaxes in the concerts, has now become such a vibrant sound in our ears! His voice has expanded so much in the last two years. Over this period, Piero has had the opportunity to spend unlimited time on his opera lessons. This is something that is not possible in his normal schedule. The intense opera lessons of the last two years have paid off with Piero standing at the door of the MET! The intensity of his voice sends shivers up and down my spine! A truly amazing voice that has become even more powerful than it was! Phenomenal! Bravo Piero!
My Way is the one song of the duets that has been presented before. And now as then it is amazing! Gianluca’s love of Frank Sinatra is something that brings joy to him and grace to their concerts. I know that Gianluca aspires to be like Sinatra, but I have to honestly say, if Sinatra was alive, he would aspire to be like Gianluca. Sinatra was and still is greatly loved and admired by his fans but Sinatra although a baritone like Gianluca could never achieve what Gianluca has achieved. Yes, he had great fame and was admired worldwide but he didn’t have the range that Gianluca has. Sinatra could not sing the full range of a baritone like Gianluca does. Gianluca, you have it all wrapped up.
Let’s turn to the solos….
Before he begins his solo, Ignazio tells us about his solo….
We meet again year after year, and I wonder what I am doing this year because what I tried to do in recent years was too ambitious. I sing what some men have never sung but at least if I make a fool of myself this year it is over a very famous person, a great artist who I hope sooner or later to have the honor of singing with. This is taken from the album of Celine Dion. ~ ‘All By Myself’
Before beginning his song, “Can’t Help Falling in Love with You” Gianluca spoke about his choice of this solo and why he chose it….
Tonight, I will sing a song that was part of my adolescence of my musical inspiration. I grew up with many singers starting from Andrea Bocelli, definitely a great one! All the Great Americans Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin and the greatest of all Elvis Presley. I have been singing this song for years I have also grown a little with her because tonight I want to dedicate it to a person who is here (pointing to Elenora Venturini Storaro in the audience) and I will sing it for her.
Before beginning his solo, No puede ser, Piero said….
I am accompanied by a great musician. I always watched his videos and tonight I invited him to accompany me ~ Maestro Andrea Grinelli
A beautiful interpretation Piero! This aria is about a man’s love for a woman who everyone says is wicked but he doesn’t believe it. Piero’s expression shows his trust for the woman he loves and that he believes that she is good! Magnificent!
So where do we go from here?
Before they sang, Ignazio takes a moment to thank the fans….
I have to thank the fans, not only for their great affection, but also because coming to these concerts doesn’t just mean spending money on tickets, but for many people, also spending on travel and hotel expenses …. and therefore, we thank you for always being with us and we dedicate to you: ‘Un Amore Cosi Grande’
After the song Piero says some beautiful words as to why he gets excited when he sings this song. It’s about being Sicilian and who he is….
Piero:To pursue his dream as a director, Toto leaves his homeland. He is forced to leave his homeland. Every time I leave for a tour, fortunately I am a privileged guy, when we leave our homes, our cities, we leave them for good things, for what we are doing tonight, but there is always that….
Ignazio: Melancholy ….
Gianluca: That basic nostalgia ….
Piero: That incurable nostalgia and therefore I cried a lot, (watching that movie) because I see myself in that child. When I sing this song, those who know me well, see me quite moved by it.
And we end with a song you are all familiar with in Italian and English….
This is just a small part of the concert. I couldn’t fit all 27 songs into this article but over the next few weeks and as we continue the concerts, I will include all of them.
The importance of today’s story was to show you that the guys love what they do but they don’t forget who they are and where they came from. For them it’s about Family, Country & Music not always in that order. It’s called stepping up to the plate and that is something they do well!
Join me next week as I go back Through the Fields of My Mind and open the door to a new adventure!
Daniela, Ale and Stefi at the Concert! Wish I was with them.
Today I want to thank three ladies who help me with photos and translations: Daniela, Ale and Stefi. I also want to thank my proof readers. Thanks for catching the errors! Pat in English and Daniela in Italian
If you would like to share a story with me, please email: susan.flightcrew@yahoo.com
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Credits to the owners of photos and videos.
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