North Gyeongsang Province held a special cultural and arts exchange invitation concert with Italy's Marche region on Thursday, September 17 at the Provincial Government Dongnakgwan and on Saturday, September 19 at the Uiseong Culture Center.

This performance served as a return visit following the cultural and arts exchange agreement concluded during the North Gyeongsang Province delegation's visit to the Marche region in June. It was organized to share the music and culture of both regions and lay the foundation for sustainable international cooperation.

Organized by the Yecheon Opera Company and sponsored by North Gyeongsang Province, the event featured approximately 100 domestic and international music experts, including Marche's "Shammah Choir," the Yecheon Opera Company choir, directors, soloists, and an orchestra, presenting a high-caliber joint performance.

The concert commenced with the performance of the national anthems of both South Korea and Italy, followed by a joint choral rendition of "Brindisi" (The Drinking Song) from Verdi's opera La Traviata. It was followed by a 100-minute diverse program, including Ennio Morricone's "Nella Fantasia," Korean art songs, and arranged popular songs, receiving enthusiastic responses from the audience.

Provincial residents had the opportunity to enjoy overseas quality music close up—which is typically difficult to experience—and the practical artistic exchanges between local and overseas performers enhanced North Gyeongsang Province's image as an international cultural city.

Conductor Maurizio, who led the Italian Shammah Choir, stated, "Although our languages are different, it was deeply meaningful to convey a resonance that unites North Gyeongsang Province and Italy's Marche region through music." He added, "I sincerely thank North Gyeongsang Province for the warm hospitality and consideration, and I hope this serves as an opportunity for more active cultural and arts exchanges between the two regions moving forward."

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