Members of the Malverne High School Select Choir recently returned from a weeklong musical and cultural tour of Italy, where they performed in historic venues while exploring some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. The trip took place June 29 through July 6.
The students visited the village of Montecatini, including a scenic funicular ride to the mountaintop, and toured Pisa and Vatican City on foot. They also explored the Colosseum and the Roman Forum during guided visits.
The tour also featured an intensive musical experience. The Malverne Select Choir joined nine other choral ensembles from across the United States to form the 175-member Trotta Festival Choir. Under the direction of composer and conductor Dr. Michael Trotta, the students spent several days rehearsing together before their performances.
The trip concluded with two performances in Rome. The Trotta Festival Choir sang Mass at the Pantheon before performing later that evening at the Basilica di San Crisogono during a gala concert. The Malverne Select Choir also performed two selections on its own before joining the full festival choir for 10 additional pieces.
The international experience combined music, history and cultural immersion while giving students the opportunity to perform alongside singers from across the country. District officials said the tour reflected Malverne’s continued commitment to the performing arts by providing students with opportunities to develop their musical talents, experience different cultures and perform on an international stage.