A&E
While touring Italy, the Choir performed in historic venues like The Vatican and The Doma; Photo courtesy of Christopher Albino '20
Hamilton voices in Italy
By Christopher Albino ’20
March 30, 2017
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Over Spring Break, the Hamilton Choir toured and performed in different cities throughout Italy. Rome, Florence, Ravenna and Venice offered indescribable sights and experiences that my choir and I encountered while performing. It is impossible to decide which destination I preferred.
Rome presented a historical treasure trove, allowing us to visit the site of Caesar’s death during the ides of March. Rome also gave us an opportunity to sing at the Vatican where the acoustics were to die for. Amid the pictures and the miles we walked throughout the day, Rome lived up to the stories describing the golden age of the Roman Republic.
The city was full of tourists, but is also home to massive buildings that survived the passage of time such as the Coliseum, the Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. We were fortunate enough to visit the Sistine Chapel and look up to see "The Creation of Adam" by Michelangelo.
When the choir reached Florence, we were immediately captivated by the change in scenery and the atmosphere of the city. Personally, I will always remember singing with a pizza maker from Naples, while my fellow choir members and I enjoyed some of the best pizza that we have ever had in our lives. The artistry and musicianship inside the city was also a highlight of Florence.
Meanwhile, Ravenna was home to many mosaics that we saw. Many of them depicted the 12 disciples, Jesus, angels and countless other religious figures.
Our last performance in Venice brought tears to listeners' and performers' eyes alike. Adding to the challenge of impressing the audience was the looming fact that this was the last choir tour that we would take part in with choir conductor Rob Kolb. Therefore, our last concert, although we were riddled with sore throats and sickness, was something to witness. Complemented by the rich acoustics of San Marco church, our final performance echoed the quality of its predecessors and required an encore to satisfy the crowd.
The effect this tour had on much of the choir and myself was providing us with an even deeper appreciation for music.
The realization that singing has been a commonplace between those who lived in ancient Rome and Hamilton students was incredible. Being able to sing in structures such as The Vatican that were worked on by the likes of Michelangelo is immense.
The trip was truly an experience that I will never forget, and it has inspired me to take steps to soon return to Italy.