In brief
The Club dei 27, an exclusive men's club in Parma, Italy, celebrates Giuseppe Verdi's birthday with performances of his beloved operas. The unique club only allows new members upon the death or retirement of current members, highlighting the deep reverence for Verdi among its ranks.
In the heart of Parma, an exceptional gathering took place last month, as members of Club dei 27 spontaneously united to honor the unforgettable Giuseppe Verdi on his birthday. Instead of the conventional “Happy Birthday,” they filled the air with the powerful strains of “Va Pensiero,” a significant chorus from Verdi’s opera “Nabucco.” This piece is so cherished that there have even been discussions about its potential as Italy's national anthem.The club members, drawn from various professions including banking, medicine, law, and even vegetable vending, share a singular devotion to the illustrious 19th-century composer. Club dei 27 is named after the various operas of Verdi, and entry is granted only upon the death or retirement of an existing member, exemplifying its exclusivity and the profound connection to Verdi's legacy.Club dei 27 is distinctly different from the infamous "27 Club," which highlights musicians lost at a young age. On the contrary, the members of Club dei 27 value life and long-standing reverence for Verdi. Amidst laughter, the club president, Enzo Petrolini, jestingly remarked about the club’s unique criteria for membership, emphasizing their hope to keep current members safe for as long as possible.At this year’s birthday toast, Petrolini raised his glass, proclaiming, “For the 211th time, happy birthday to Maestro Verdi!" The rousing cheer of “Viva Verdi” echoed through the gathering, embodying the club’s dedication to celebrating the timeless influence of one of opera's greatest composers.