In brief
Club dei 27 in Parma celebrates the rich legacy of Giuseppe Verdi with a dramatic twist—members can only join when a current member passes or retires, underscoring the club's exclusivity and dedication to the legendary composer.
In Parma, Italy, the Club dei 27 has garnered attention for its peculiar traditions revolving around the celebrated opera composer Giuseppe Verdi. During a recent celebration of Verdi's birthday, members sang “Va Pensiero,” a cherished chorus from his opera “Nabucco,” rather than the customary “Happy Birthday.” The participants, a diverse mix from various professions such as bankers, surgeons, legal experts, and even vegetable vendors, share a profound admiration for Verdi.This unique club, situated near Verdi's birthplace, is notably exclusive—only men are eligible for membership, and new members can only join following the death or retirement of an existing member. As a playful nod to the waiting list, current members sometimes find humor in the process of patiently awaiting a spot, emphasizing longevity over a rushed membership process.“Happy 211th birthday to Maestro Verdi” was the toast offered by Enzo Petrolini, the club's president, during the celebration on October 10. His heartfelt words were met with cheers of “Viva Verdi” echoing the group’s deep respect for the composer, marking yet another unforgettable moment of reverence for an icon in the world of opera.
