In brief
Members of the exclusive Club dei 27 gather to honor Giuseppe Verdi's legacy through music and camaraderie, reflecting a unique blend of devotion and tradition.
In Parma, Italy, a group of men passionate about Giuseppe Verdi gather each year to celebrate the maestro's birthday. Last month, the club marked the occasion with the stirring rendition of "Va Pensiero," a beloved piece from Verdi's opera "Nabucco." This song has garnered such admiration that it's been considered for Italy's national anthem.Membership in the Club dei 27 is a highly exclusive affair. Men from various professional backgrounds—bakers, surgeons, and lawyers, for instance—join under the condition that a spot opens up, whether through death or retirement of a current member. This unique premise not only underscores the bond over their shared love for the composer but also the inevitable wait that comes with joining such an elite group.Established near Verdi’s birthplace, the club embraces its heritage, with members choosing a name from one of Verdi's operas upon joining. “We hope for no new requests too soon,” said Enzo Petrolini, the club's president, expressing a mix of humor and sentiment about the club's morbid entry requirements.Despite the peculiarities, the members relish their gatherings, sharing an unwavering devotion to Verdi, as articulated during the recent birthday toast where many raised their glasses to "Viva Verdi!" Continuing to honor the spirit of Verdi, the Club dei 27 symbolizes a unique tradition that combines respect for opera with the camaraderie of its members.
