The Permanent Representative of Italy to the United Nations in New York, Giorgio Marrapodi, welcomed today the delegation of the Piccolo Coro dell’Antoniano of Bologna, Italy’s beloved children’s choir visiting the United States for its first tour dedicated to promoting the Italian language and culture.
“I am very pleased that the Antoniano’s mission begins precisely at the United Nations, as the organization has always conveyed a message of peace, friendship, solidarity and dialogue, in line with the core values of the United Nations and with Italy’s action at the United Nations,” Ambassador Marrapodi said. He also underscored the fundamental role of younger generations in shaping a brand of multilateralism that responds to people’s aspirations for peace, dignity and development.
The delegation, led by Fra’ Giampaolo Cavalli, Director of the Antoniano of Bologna, outlined the program of activities and the mission of the Piccolo Coro, highlighting an important historical coincidence: in 1959, the year of the first edition of the Zecchino d’Oro, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child.
The ceremony opened with a performance by the Piccolo Coro of the Italian national anthem, followed by a selection of songs chosen and prepared specifically for the U.S. tour. Through music, the delegation has sought to convey a universal message of dialogue and sharing, underscoring music’s ability to transcend geographical borders and cultural differences.
Following the first event at the Permanent Mission of Italy to the United Nations, on October 8 the Antoniano delegation will be received by the Consulate General of Italy in New York and the Italian Cultural Institute. In the following days, the Piccolo Coro will also take part in the Columbus Day celebrations on Fifth Avenue, bringing to the heart of New York the music and values that have defined its history.
