We're taking our 12-year-old daughter to Rome and Venice in April. Would love to see some sort of performance.
We've heard incredible things about Musica Palazza in Venice (including from Rick, in a video). If anyone has been: Is it appropriate for a 12 year old (who loves music)? Or too adult?
Would hugely appreciate any recommendations for performance to see in Rome or Venice with a Tween. Whether a concert, play, dance...anything unique and wonderful...
Thanks!
If your daughter enjoys classical music concerts & recitals at home, then she should be fine at a concert in Italy. In my experience, Italian audiences tend to be a little more energetic and performers too are sometimes more "showy" than the typical sedate American classical music behavior.
One thing I noticed about myself is that even after several days of getting over jet lag, sitting still in the audience at an evening concert will tend to put me to sleep. I've found that a well-timed afternoon nap (ah, siesta -- hasn't that idea been around for a while?) and perhaps a cup of coffee will help me stay alert through the event.
You'll see concerts at several venues in Venice, like the Chiesa della Pieta and Chiesa di San Vidal. Usually Vivaldi Four Seasons or Bach Violin concerti. They are excellent, played by very professional chamber music groups, in small venues, and not much money.
Chiesa della Pieta, on the Riva east of Piazza San Marco, is where Vivaldi taught music, although the physical building was built after he had moved on.
Concerts during the summer are plentiful in both Rome and Venice. In Venice the rule is 'if they wear formal attire they are better players.' Now, that does not mean the 'costumed' performers are of lesser quality. They just don't have the major international credits or recordings. Your daughter might prefer the costume performances - a lot more for her to look at.
In Rome the Baths of Caracalla have both (this summer) opera and ballet. There are lots of churches and other places hosting concerts too. They're all good.
In Rome don't forget to check out the street performers at the Pantheon, Piazza Navona and Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere (usually a few geared towards children). These are free - but donations gladly accepted! There's always a place for the adults to sit with a cool drink (you'll need it in the summer heat!) and enjoy the experience. ENJOY!
