|
Ah Firenze. Could there possibly be a more beautiful city on the planet? Ask any local and they’ll tell you the answer is a resounding ‘no’! Because it’s true, Florence is blessed with quite a bit more than its fair share of stunning architecture, not to mention the River Arno. But while it’s more often associated with the vast collections of Renaissance art displayed in its many galleries, museums and public spaces, the city also has a rich classical musical heritage. For those who embark on Florence and Tuscany tours looking to delve into this charming aspect of the city’s history, the sound of music is never too far away. Stroll Around the Top Classical Musical Attractions Some of the most famous musical attractions can be seen in a relatively short time due to the compact nature of the city. While not all Florence and Tuscany tours will include visits to the sites mentioned below on their itinerary, it’s easy to get out and explore them on your own – or perhaps with the help of an online guide. The National Public Library In this, the largest public library in Italy, along with a copy of every book ever published in Tuscany (more than six million of them) you’ll be able to view some of the oldest sheet music left in the world. Housed in a truly beautiful building, the impressive musical collection also comprises the songbooks and sheet music for hymns, operas and choral works from the WW1 era. Teatro Verdi With a reputation and capacity befitting its famous namesake, Teatro Verdi is an ‘Italian style’ theatre, laid out with galleries, a balcony and tiers of private boxes. Along with regular traditional opera performances, the theatre is also host to many contemporary events, including film festivals, modern musicals, ballets and piano recitals. Galleria dell’Accademia As well as the famous statue of David, by Michelangelo, the Accademia is also home to the Musical Instrument Museum – a museum within a museum, if you will. The collection comprises around 50 instruments dating from the seventeenth to the nineteenth centuries. One of the highlights is a viola made by Antonio Stradivari, who was and is considered one of the world’s finest craftsmen of musical instruments. Some of the exhibits allow you to listen to the ancient instruments through the modern-day multi-media systems. Teatro Della Pergola Lovers of opera will be in their element with the chance to attend a performance at this revered opera house, which is the oldest in Italy. For more than 350 years the theatre has staged some iconic events, including Verdi’s production of Macbeth, in 1847. With a capacity of nearly 2,000 all told, the opera house holds around 250 performances every year. Discover the Sound of Italy on Florence and Tuscany Tours For anyone with a deep love of classical music, one of the small group organised Florence and Tuscany tours can introduce you to the country’s rich and inspirational musical heritage. By visiting these, and many other sites of interest, you can gain a genuine insight into the significance music has played throughout Italy’s long and fascinating history. Author Plate Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering unforgettable tours and excursions around Italy including the best Florence and Tuscany tours. Whether you want to ride a Vintage Vespa, try the famous Chianti wine or get cooking with fresh local ingredients, Mauro's company promises excitement, adventure and above all, fun. If you're keen to experience the magic of Italy with the help of some passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, look no further than WalkAbout Florence for your next getaway.
Related Articles -
Florence, and, Tuscany, tours,
|
