We were looking up concerts in Bologna and this one caught our eye. First it was a concert by students in the Opera school. Next it was going to be held in the magnificent Palazzo Sassoli de' Vasse Pietramellara, Lastly the concert was free. The only hitch was that at show time, there may or may not be seats for us. Apparently since the concert is free, people reserve spaces and then do not show up. So the organizers release more tickets than there is room so that there are never empty seats. The name of the concert was "The Art of the Hoax" and it was a selection of songs from the Barber of Seville. We got there early so we would have seats, we loved the show and the venue was over the top beautiful.
Bologna id known for its porticos
We walked to the concert and had these delightful passageways to traverse
This is the entry way to the concert
This button looked like a door bell but it actually unlocked the gate. But there was a weight suspended by a chain.
The chain was 15 feet long and was attached to this very manual door bell
The two men at the front of the like had to investigate this for themselves
Statues abound
Another one around each corner
We are in the hall
Beautiful frescoes on the ceiling
The program
Looking back to the entrance
Such a treasure
Is there a phone in the purse or is the purse a phone?
The audience has assembled
Dressed up in their Italian finery
With a book to pass the time
Introductions, left to right: Director of the Music School, descendant of the historical owners of the Palazzo and her possible companion
Her name is etched on the door jam
The students who sang
Petramellara is the family name
This was the singer that we liked the most. He was so expressive. Videos of the other singers follow
Acting is part of the job
Singing his heart out
Having eyebrows is a big plus, this video really shows his acting
Hitting the low notes!
A wistful smile and a duet
More statues on the way out
More frescoes too
Great detail
Ride 'em god-boy
Down the stairs we go!
