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Anna in NY

With Love from Lajatico..............

We would love to hear from those of you who were able to attend the first concert at Teatro di Silenzio in Lajatico! I look forward to reading any reports about this special event! Grazie a Lei !
Ciao,
Anna

Lajatico Flag from Flags of the World Website.
http://www.fotw.net/flags/
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Beddu Turridu !!!!!!!!!!!!

Nuala · Joined: 26 Apr 2004 Posts: 2 Location: Shropshire, UK

I can't give a first hand review of the concert - however, we have a house near Lajatico which we rent out for holidays. Our visitors who were staying at the time of the concert knew nothing about it beforehand (nor did we, or we would have been there ourselves!) They are big fans of Bocelli, and were thrilled to discover that he was performing - as they put it - in their backyard. They sat by the open windows of the house, wine glasses in hand, and heard every note as the music drifted across the Tuscan countryside. Our house is high on a hill overlooking Lajatico, and they had a wonderful view of the fireworks at the end of the concert. In the visitors book, they thanked us for laying on Andrea Bocelli for the evening - our pleasure, guys....all part of the service!

Anna in NY · Posted: Fri Aug 04, 2006 9:39 am Post subject:

Dear Nuala,

What a nice story to wake up to! I must thank you for your lovely post! As I sit here with my morning cup of coffee, I realize that I have a smile on my face that will surely see me through the day.

It is truly a lovely picture you've painted for us. It's a scenario I hadn't considered, actullay. Hearing, yet not seeing the concert, with a glass of wine in hand, topped off by fireworks. Fabulous!

(John and I opened a bottle of Villa Puccini last night and enjoyed our glass of wine on the front porch during a power failure.....with only the music of the crickets to serenade us. I would much rather have been at Lajatico ! LOL ) lmao

You must be sure to book your ticket for next year, as Teatro di Silenzio is meant to be an annual event at Lajatico! As the summer draws to a close, you've a sweet anticipation to look forward to for next summer!

Again, Thank you for taking the time to share this with us.
Many Thanks!
Anna
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Beddu Turridu !!!!!!!!!!!!

Sally · Posted: Fri Aug 04, 2006 1:53 pm Post subject:

I was pleased to read Nuala's post and I can imagine how lovely it was to sit on her balcony, listening to Andrea's music and see the fireworks. I was lucky enough to visit Nuala's villa last year. Clive and I used to sit on the balcony in the mornings, eating our breakfast in the sunshine. We could see Lajatico in the distance, rising out of the morning mist like a lovely ship on a milky ocean. That was wonderful enough, but to have Bocelli as well - that must have been simply heavenly.
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"Where are we REALLY going? Always home."

Anna in NY · Posted: Thu Aug 10, 2006 8:32 am Post subject:

Lajatico Program

Good Morning, Everyone!
When I told Rosie D that many people had been asking me about the program for Teatro di Silenzio, she generously sent this to share. Enjoy!
Grazie mille, Cara Rosie !
Baci,
Anna

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Beddu Turridu !!!!!!!!!!!!

rosied · Joined: 16 Oct 2004 Posts: 127

I have been looking for Teatro del Silenzio concert reports, too and have loved reading the different impressions given in the ones posted so far. But, do we ever get enough of anything to do with Andrea??? We always want more!
Even though I experienced this event myself, I have been waiting for others, who are more qualified, with more writing/reporting abilities to post their impressions, thinking that what I have to say would be of little or no interest to anyone, but me. So please be patient with me, because I really cannot speak intelligently about the technicalities of the music, etc…….what I write comes only from my heart….. a heart that knows what it loves to “hear”………………...
The voice of Andrea Bocelli…..

After no little reflection, I will try to tell you what it was like to be among the 5,000 or so very lucky people who experienced this emotionally charged event….all the while giving us the feeling that we are attending a“ Saturday nite concert in the park….” as the sun disappeared and a cool breeze blew across the open fields around us.

But first…….
It is my feeling that some recognition should be given to the good people of Lajatico. We spent 5 days in this lovely little village, exploring all the places we’ve heard about….and when we left, we left as friends not strangers. A promise to return, amid many hugs and kisses.
I would love to tell Andrea of the warm and welcoming reception we received from everyone there….I think it would make him very proud of his people.

To our two Italian angels in the office….. we will never forget them and the personal attention they gave us. It seemed we always needed some help, and they always found a way to accommodate us…they made us feel like VIPs!!

To all the
“ guys” in the bar…whose happy greeting every morning always started our day with a smile and enthusiasm for the day’s events…they sent us on our way with a great cup of coffee and a warm pastry.

To new friends we made….who shared their stories and knowledge of Andrea’s home and guided us through all the neighboring towns….one more picturesque than the other…Volterra, Sienna, Montereggioni, Montecatini…to name only a few..

Of course, to Edi and Alberto Bocelli, who greeted us with those famous Bocelli
smiles and friendly words of welcome.

And to all the other friendly faces that greeted us with an enthusiastic “Buongiorno or Buonasera”….the grocer, the banker….the “ladies club” that met in the bar every morning to share the latest news and those wonderful pastries. In the evening as the men of the village gathered to play cards, the children played chase and rode their bikes….la piazza came to life with a sound of the laughter and love of these charming people. Ohhh! Shades of my childhood….as I called to mind pictures of similar happenings outside my father’s grocery store on warm summer nights. Is this a custom Italians brought with them when they came to America?? This way they have of just “letting it all hang out” as we Americans like to say? I don’t know……but. I know I LIKE IT!!

We made the decision to stay in an apartment in Lajatico instead of an “air conditioned” hotel in Volterra because we wanted to experience Lajatico and its people…and it turned out to be the right decision. We made memories to take home with us and relive again and again. For example, going to mass in the church where the Bocelli family attend mass and where Andrea sang as a boy and where he was married.

Right about here, you are probably thinking I will NEVER get to the ALL important CONCERT …..I apologize for being “too wordy”.

Naturally, the concert is the highlight of our Lajatico experience.
As evidenced by the great pictures on Bo.de…..spectacular is not a grand enough word to describe what it was really like TO BE THERE.
We sat in what was to be the first row, until they added a row of seats in front of us.
That was okay, because we were almost dead center right in front of Andrea and from where we sat, we could see backstage and the aisle where Andrea entered and exited.
We saw him wait for the right moment to begin, and we saw Veronica hurry to meet him when he walked back. She is “Johnny on the spot” for sure. She is so attentive to Andrea, anticipating his every move, so as to be there when she’s needed. She’s a gem!

The great fiberglass head, so impressive, placed in a pond behind the stage, changing colors before our eyes…..brilliant marine blue, aqua and then purple….as they say…”Candy” for the eyes. On the pillars surrounding the back…..moving alabaster “statues” in silk, blowing in the wind…another “WOW”….Coral members, MANY of them, all dressed in flowing white robes wearing painted faces. Every single detail artistically presented with the rolling hills of the famous Tuscan landscape all around us, big, bold and beautiful beyond the telling.

All of a sudden, we hear the instantly recognizable sound of Andrea’s voice with “big emotion” speaking the words he wrote to his father….”Caro babbo”:….sweet, touching words of love and gratitude that set the stage for his entrance and the promise of an evening of emotional highs that would stay with us for a very long time……forever!!

Finally the moment has come….he stands before us dressed in casual black attire, looking more handsome than anyone has a right to. He begins to sing….first, the Brindisi from Cavalleria rusticana and his face takes on the look of a choirboy, calm, innocent with a kind of reverence for the music…effortless some have said, but we know better, as he pours his heart and soul into his songs. Then we know why we are here…why some of us have traveled ½ way around the world to this little dot on the map to support and share the fulfillment of his dream. Andrea, you have stolen our hearts with your beautiful voice and “winning ways”…God loves you for who you are and what you do…..and so do we ALL.
I’ve been to a few concerts in my time and I have NEVER heard his voice more perfectly beautiful, powerful and emotional. Every song with a WOW ending….high notes that seemed to go on FOREVER. On one song, and I get so wrapped up in the hypnotic sound of his voice that I really don’t remember which one, he heaved a great sigh at the end and issued a big “WHEW”…..I think he even “wowed” himself!! The audience could have eaten him up…..with a spoon!

Its very difficult for me to accept the opinions of those who say Andrea’s voice lacks strength. It seems to get stronger and more beautiful as time goes by, and as it increases in power, does not lose its sweetness, which is the unique quality that sets it apart from ALL others. Pray God, he NEVER sacrifices this sweetness in order to gain power. His voice is strong enough to sing without a mike, and he has promised he will sing “au naturale” next year….Bravo Andrea!

From the very first song, he had us in the palm of his hand. There were a few new songs but basicly the same ones we love ….Funiculi funicula, Granada, E lucevan le stelle…I absolutely love this song, and he poured every ounce of his emotions into this one and the tears flowed like wine here. Then Nessun Dorma and Mamma. Was there even ONE that didn’t “ring my chimes”….Wellll…Nooooo! He pulled out all the stops. And as if that wasn’t enough…after the break he came out dressed in ALL WHITE!.

Well, if the term “a vision” can be used to describe a man…..call him a vision! A gasp arose from the audience, and he just stood there a moment. I couldn’t stop myself….out popped my “Hello, Gorgeous!” After all, someone HAD to say it, no?? I think he knew he was lookin’ goooood and he could feel the love coming at him.

Duets with Paola Sanguinetti were perfectly executed…the ones that move most of us to tears…the ones we never get tired of hearing. Just a few words about Paola, whom I know is one of Andrea’s favorites. This was my first time seeing her and her voice is truly beautiful and so is she. I would enjoy seeing her perform with Andrea again sometime.
I don’t know anything about the baritone, Montresor. He was a worthy addition to the program, a very beautiful, big voice, although in truth..I prefer the tenor voice and specifically Andrea’s…beeeeg surprise, no? And I should be embarrassed to say it, but when Andrea is on the stage, I only see and hear him.

Someone who spoke with Andrea a couple of hours before the concert told me that he was VERY nervous about this concert. We know he is ALWAYS “stage afraid”, but this evening was very special to him for many personal reasons. He must sing his best before his own people and make his village proud of him….and maybe he felt the awesome responsibility for the success of the event weighing heavily upon his shoulders.
But as usual, Andrea never disappoints…he gave l000% and success was once again his..

The program ended with the usual Con te Partiro, and a recording of Because we believe and at times Andrea sang along with the recording. While the sound of Andrea’s voice filled the night, a spectacular display of fireworks lit up the night sky, and tons of silver confetti fell all around us, giving the effect of a thousand dancing lights…their brilliance rivaled only by Andrea’s radiant smile. He was obviously sooo happy with the audience’s reception of this spectacular event ….and I was sooo happy FOR him! Everyone stood up, cheering and yelling ….my face was wet with tears of joy….AND sadness that this special night was coming to an end..
Andrea has always spoken so lovingly of his “little village” and with this project has said that he wanted to return to his roots. There is a saying….”you can’t go home again”….but maybe for Andrea this is not true, because on this night of nights, the world famous superstar that stood before us was once again the sweet country boy of old. On this special night, in this special place……..Andrea Bocelli came home.

I wish I could have understood his thank you speech spoken in Italian. I almost yelled at him again..this time “Please, Andrea…speak a few words in English”. I’m sure the other English speaking fans who didn’t speak Italian would have loved knowing what he said, too.

The next day, we paid a farewell visit to the site, and we could see this area slowly returning to its original peaceful landscape, as the workers pulled up the wooden floors, dismantled all the electronic equipment and knocked down the stage, where only hours before there was such hustle and bustle and excitement. Truly an amazing transformation.
The good news is that Andrea has contracted for four more of these concerts under the stars…and if this is so…even in the sweltering Italian heat of July…God willing, I will probably be there again. Say….. could this become a habit that is hard to break???

Barbara W. · Joined: 24 Mar 2006 Posts: 18 Location: Massachusetts

rosied,

What a great way to start my day. Mucho grazie for your wonderful report on your visit to Lajatico and your evening with Andrea. You really captured the essence of Andrea and shared it with us all.

Grazie, grazie, grazie
Barbara W.

Tina · Moderator Joined: 01 Mar 2003 Posts: 275 Location: England

Mille grazie Rosie!! What a great report, and what a fantastic night! I will do my utmost to be there next year!! So, any pictures coming Rosie????? LOL!
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La tua voce e come un dolce dolores nel mio cuore! Non c'e nessuno migliore di te!!

Anna in NY · Posted: Wed Aug 16, 2006 9:49 am Post subject:

Dearest Rose,

My dear friend, THANK YOU for taking the time to compose this fantastic report. I feel as though I've experienced Andrea's concert and the town of Lajatico through your eyes. What a joyous journey you've had!

I have always loved the moment when Andrea first comes out onstage. No matter the venue, it is when we see Andrea make his appearance at the beginning of a concert that I clearly remember most. Andrea must have felt great coming out to sing in the landscape of Lajatico, out in God's nature, in his own element, among his own people. I wish I could have been sitting there next to you!

The world has a multitude of fabulous concert halls, Opera houses and theatres where audiences can and do enjoy their favorite performers. I know that I'm so looking forward to seeing Andrea in September at Avery Fisher Hall. That being said, I must say that the thought of hearing Andrea sing amidst the backdrop of the Tuscan Countryside is the scenario that appeals to me most, more than any stage. Thank you for confirming what I imagined the evening to be.

The icing on the cake, for me,however, was your description of the town of Lajatico and your interaction with the friends and acquaintences you've made there. The flavor of the area, complete with a sense of the hospitality of those who live their lives there, gives us a glimpse into what has helped mold the person who is Andrea Bocelli.

How blessed you are to have experienced this. Once more, my sincere thanks!

Sempre,
Anna computer

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Beddu Turridu !!!!!!!!!!!!

ArnoneL · Joined: 13 Jun 2006 Posts: 5 Location: South Carolina

Rose,

Your report was magnificent!! Thank you so much for taking the time to write such details. Unlike some others, I probably won't get to experience one of these concerts, but your description made me feel as if I were right there sitting next to you. Thank you, thank you!!

Lynn

kathanne · Joined: 04 Apr 2006 Posts: 50 Location: Frodsham

I don't usually thank those who make me cry but I'll make an exception this time!! Thank you Rose for this wonderful report. As the others have said you conveyed the atmosphere so well I almost felt as if I was there with you. We all knew that it was going to be a very emotional occasion and it must be quite daunting trying to put this into words but you have done a fantastic job. I am typing with tears still running down my cheeks. I wonder what I would have been like if I had actually been there? Written truly from the heart. You have a real talent Rose. Thanks again.

woodsie · Joined: 21 Nov 2003 Posts: 67 Location: New England

Thank you so much, Rosie! What a beautiful report you gave us!!! I felt like I was there! Wouldn't I love to go.
Maybe someday.
What could be better than seeing and hearing Andrea in his home town.
That area sounds really beautiful and the townspeople sound so nice.
I can remember the townspeople in this town (which has lots of Italian people) coming out in the neighborhoods in the evening. My mother-in-law was Italian and what a great lady she was. So kind.
I kind of got off topic. bouncy

Thank you again for the report, Rosie. Tears here too.
Love, -----woodsie-----

jean · Joined: 03 Mar 2003 Posts: 85

Cara Smitten Rosie!

Oh, my, how very beautiful your thoughts and remembrances on Andrea's Theater of Silence concert!!! I echo the others in that it seems as if I were there with you - embracing the remarkable evening with Our Fantastic Tenor! I am so HAPPY that you gave him your famous "Hello, Gorgeous!" I know it must put him at ease and give him a smile inside and out! A special touch from one of his most loving and kind admirers!

I can imagine also the "vision" as he walked out in the white linen suit! The breathtaking looks and the heavenly voice! He has it all ... and I LOVED your comment on his "winning ways"! In total agreement,!

Also thank you too for describing your encounters with the local people from Andrea's hometown! Their cordial welcoming of visitors! I am certain they are so proud of their community! This interaction of his village friends and family with the worldwide travelers must have been very gratifying and heartwarming for Andrea! He has told of his love for his village, Tuscany and Italy. He is the ultimate representative for his country!

Veronica is a lovely woman! (And a lucky one I might add!) Andrea is fortunate to have a companion who is on his side and shows it! A nice love story!

The theater itself seems to be so unique and beautiful blending in with the Tuscan landscape. The pictures on Bo.de - it looked just like one of those Renassaince (sp) Master paintings (such as Da Vinci) - the background in the Mona Lisa! Oh, and I had wondered how the "face" and pond looked in person! Again such a beautiful touch - a very powerful visual.

What a wonderful journey and adventure, Cara Rosie! Thank you for sharing this moment in time with us (and me!) !!! You are an ANGEL!

Hugs and love forever, from Jeanie
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The simplest action far surpasses the grandest intention.

Sally · Posted: Wed Aug 16, 2006 2:35 pm Post subject:

Thanks for the marvellous report, Rosie. You have a beautiful, descriptive turn of phrase and reading about your evening really was a close second best to actually being there. How pleased and proud Andrea's family must have been to see thousands of people so enjoying an evening in their own little town - because of their Andrea. And how lucky is he to have such a wonderful gift! Thank you again!
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"Where are we REALLY going? Always home."

pauline · Joined: 02 Mar 2003 Posts: 166 Location: Cornwall England

Dear Rosie, thank you so much for your beautiful report. I enjoyed every bit of it, the village, it's people and our lovely Andrea. You made me feel that I was there with you and yes it made me cry as well. Bless you Rosie and will be seeing you in NY in September as I will be spending a month with my dear Sarah and we will be flying to NY to spend a few days for sight seeing and round it off perfectly with Andrea's concert. This is my second visit to stay with Sarah, the best holiday I ever had, I love America and it's so friendly people, the only trouble is I don't want to come home afterwards.
Pauline kiss

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pauline stracey