With a delightful blend of Italian language, culture, food, wine and music, a group of Italian language students and friends from Hampshire, led by their teacher Francesca Ardiccioni, embarked on an unforgettable journey to the historic city of Lucca.

This trip follows last year's memorable performances by famous Italian soprano Silvana Froli and renowned English pianist Richard Pearce, held in the Saint Nicholas church in Bishop Sutton and the chapel of St Cross in Winchester.

Hampshire Chronicle: The group in Petrograno The group in Petrograno (Image: Francesca Ardiccioni)

Venturing through the cobblestone streets of Lucca and exploring nearby gems like Barga, Collodi, Giardino Garzoni and Fattoria di Petrognano, the travellers immersed themselves in the rich tapestry of Tuscany. 

One of the highlights was the private visit to Teatrino del FAI in Vetriano, where Silvana Froli and baritone Lisandro Guines were accompanied by flautist Sara Tomei and pianist Richard Pearce. From the stirring arias and duets of Tosca, La Bohème and Madama Butterfly, to the evocative melodies of Carmen, the repertoire was a celebration of Italian and French opera. 

The city of Lucca invited Richard Pearce to perform a public recital, arranged by Silvana Froli, in the historic church of San Pietro Somaldi.

Here Richard expressed his exceptional talent, playing the organ that Puccini himself had played. Alternating between the works of Giacomo Puccini, Elgar and other composers, Pearce's colourful and breathtaking performance culminated in a beautiful rendition of Puccini's ‘Salve Regina’, sung by Silvana Froli.

Hampshire Chronicle: Richard Pearce, Silvana Froli, Sara Tomei and Alisandro Guines receive theirs standing ovation at Teatrino del FAIRichard Pearce, Silvana Froli, Sara Tomei and Alisandro Guines receive theirs standing ovation at Teatrino del FAI (Image: Francesca Ardiccioni)

Francesca’s students are accustomed to unique experiences, carefully tailored by their teacher and not usually available to tourists. This time, too, they were amazed by the variety and exceptional quality of the events. 

The final dinner, held at the historic and sumptuous Palazzo Tucci in Lucca, was the pinnacle of the five-day holiday. The finest italian food and wines delighted the group in a sophisticated yet fun ambiance. 

Once again, a special bond was woven between Hampshire and Tuscany, leaving behind a legacy of cultural exchange and cherished memories.