Italian opera singing has been officially recognized as a cultural heritage by Unesco, the United Nations’ culture agency. This prestigious recognition confirms the global excellence of opera singing, which has been an integral part of Italian culture for over four centuries. Italian opera is a unique art form that combines costume, drama, and music to create captivating and emotionally powerful performances.
Originating in Florence during the late 1500s and early 1600s, Italian opera quickly gained popularity and became an essential part of Italian society. Its intricate plots, elaborate staging, and virtuoso singing captivated audiences and established Italy as the birthplace of opera. Opera singing has now joined other renowned Italian practices such as pizza-making and Alpine peak scaling on the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Unesco describes Italian opera singing as “a physiologically controlled way of singing that enhances the carrying power of the voice in acoustic spaces such as amphitheatres and churches.” This unique technique not only amplifies the vocal performance but also promotes collective cohesion and sociocultural memory. Opera is a means of free expression and intergenerational dialogue, allowing people from different generations and backgrounds to connect through the beauty of music.
Claudio Monteverdi, an Italian composer of the 17th century, is often regarded as the first great opera composer. His contributions to the development of opera paved the way for future generations of composers and singers. Today, Italy boasts around 60 opera houses, the highest number in the world, and has produced globally acclaimed opera singers like Luciano Pavarotti.
The inclusion of Italian opera singing in Unesco’s cultural heritage list comes just before the traditional inauguration of the 2023-24 season at La Scala opera house. This recognition not only celebrates the rich history and cultural significance of Italian opera but also serves as a reminder of the immense talent and dedication of opera singers and the impact they have on the world stage.
Italian soprano Carmela Remigio expressed her joy at the recognition, emphasizing the role of opera in preserving the Italian language. She stated that “it is thanks to the opera and its librettos that Italian language is still known in the world.” Opera allows the Italian language to transcend borders and connect people through the universal language of music.
Unesco’s announcement also included the recognition of various other customs and traditions from around the world as intangible cultural heritage. Peruvian ceviche, Bangladeshi rickshaw painting, Uzbek ceramic crafts, and loincloth weaving in Ivory Coast were among the diverse practices acknowledged. These recognitions highlight the importance of preserving and promoting cultural diversity and heritage worldwide.
The addition of Italian opera singing to Unesco’s cultural heritage list not only safeguards its legacy for future generations but also elevates its significance on the global stage. As an art form that seamlessly combines music, drama, and costume, Italian opera continues to captivate audiences with its emotionally charged performances. This recognition serves as a reminder of the immense cultural contributions of Italy and the enduring power of opera as an art form.
