In the hot air of Alpemare beach in strong Marmi in Tuscany, the atmosphere is both relaxed and solemn. Accompanied by his wife Veronica Berti, singer Andrea Bocelli is given the Knight of the Civil Order of Savoy by Prince Emanuele Filiberto in person. Both wear elegant summer toilets, having agreed to drop the tie for once.
“Make Italian culture shine”
The atmosphere also contrasts with that which reigned in the impressive room Benedict XVI of the Pontifical University of Latran where the head of the Royal House of Savoy had welcomed 250 new knights and ladies last October, while he chaired his first general chapter of dynastic orders. This time, the prince moved to testify his gratitude to the Italian artist. “This guarantee of recognition, he recalled, has already been awarded to historical, scientific, top-top personalities and artists such as [Guglielmo] Marcon and [Giacomo] Puccini. Andrea BoCelli, a musician of international renown, has, during his thirty years of career in the service of art, makes Italian beauty and culture shine. Very active in the charitable and cultural fields, the importance it has to others manifests itself through its foundation in a lively and current way. ”
History passionate
The singer immediately reacted to this compliment, in turn speaking. “As a story of history, it is a title that touches me particularly,” he replied to the prince, because of its secular symbolic value. And I will try to honor it by carrying it with joy and gratitude, and by doing everything possible to continue to deserve it in the future. ” The ceremony continued in a friendly atmosphere but not offset, since the prince and the singer spoke of the idea of collaborating on common projects via dynastic orders and the Andrea Bocelli Foundation engaged in many educational projects. “The privilege of welcoming the prince made this day more special, concluded the musician. It was a moment full of emotion and meaning, which my wife and I will keep for a long time in our hearts.”
