In brief
Composed exclusively of men, Club dei 27 honors Giuseppe Verdi's artistic genius through song and community, reveling in a tradition that requires a vacancy for new members — typically heralded by the passing of a current one.
In the serene surroundings of Parma, Italy, an extraordinary celebration took place last month that transcended typical birthday festivities. Members of the Club dei 27, an elite fraternity dedicated to the famed opera composer Giuseppe Verdi, gathered to pay homage to the maestro, eschewing “Happy Birthday” in favor of the evocative melody of “Va Pensiero” from Verdi's opera “Nabucco.” This particular chorus has gained such affection in Italy that it has been touted as a potential national anthem replacement.The members, hailing from diverse professions, including surgeons, lawyers, and vegetable vendors, are united by a singular, profound love for Verdi’s music. The club, situated near Verdi's birthplace, is remarkable not only for its musical passion but also for its stringent membership rules. Only men are eligible to join, and new members can only do so upon the death or retirement of a current member. This exclusivity has generated a waiting list, with current members, like president Enzo Petrolini, humorously acknowledging the superstitions they hold regarding the matter of new requests. “When we get a new request, we touch wood,” he quipped, hoping to ward off any untimely departures.It is crucial not to confuse Club dei 27 with the so-called 27 Club, which includes a host of iconic musicians who tragically passed away at 27 years of age. For the members of this Italian society, however, the focus lies firmly on longevity and the reverence of Verdi’s legacy.During the recent birthday celebration, Petrolini raised a toast for Verdi’s 211th birthday, prompting heartfelt cheers of “Viva Verdi” from the gathered crowd. This gathering marked yet another year of honoring the globally revered artist, a reminder of the enduring power of music and community.
