A strong opera tradition
Founded as the "Amici del Canto e della Musica" group, the Circolo has grown into a nationally recognized organization, helping preserve and promote Pavia's opera tradition.
Keeping opera alive in Pavia
Since 1967, we have promoted music culture in Pavia through concerts, educational projects and activities that help people of all ages discover opera.
Key points
Room for young artists
Our venue hosts performances and training opportunities designed to give early-career singers valuable stage experience.
Educational projects
We work with schools and local organizations to introduce young people to opera through guided visits, dedicated concerts, and study activities based on major works from the repertoire.
Distinguished guests
Our stage has welcomed major opera performers who have inspired local audiences and strengthened Pavia's role in the music scene.
How a shared passion became a cultural landmark for opera
1967
The beginning: Amici del Canto e della Musica
Circolo Pavia Lirica started in 1967 as an informal group called “Amici del Canto e della Musica”. Friends gathered on Sunday afternoons to share their love for singing and music. Many performed opera arias and romances with piano accompaniment, and this regular gathering gradually evolved into the formal association we know today.
1973
A new home, a new name
The need for a larger and more welcoming venue led to a move to the current location on Lungoticino. The group adopted the name “Circolo Pavia Lirica” and grew into one of Italy's most active and respected opera circles, with singers from many backgrounds. At the end of 2024, the Circolo had 70 members.
1976
The Competition begins: Voci Nuove per la Lirica
Young singers began performing in our concert hall as one of their first experiences with a live audience. This inspired the creation of a dedicated initiative: the Concorso Internazionale di canto “Voci Nuove per la Lirica”, first held in 1976. Over time, the competition gained national and international prestige thanks to the commitment of members and the expertise of the juries.
1999
The Gaetano Fraschini Competition
Since 1999, the competition has been named after “Gaetano Fraschini”, the renowned tenor from Pavia known as “Verdi's tenor”. Notable participants over the years include soprano Denia Mazzola, bass Serghei Martinov, tenors Fabio Armiliato, Marcelo Alvarez, Salvatore Licitra, and baritone Ambrogio Maestri from Pavia.
2007
Il Sipario d’Argento and major anniversaries
The Circolo created the “Il Sipario d’Argento” award to honor distinguished opera figures. In 2007 we celebrated our 40th anniversary, and in 2017 our 50th with a memorable concert at Belgioioso Castle featuring soprano Chiara Taigi and maestro Enrico Zucca. Award recipients include maestro Riccardo Muti, baritone Leo Nucci, and soprano Raina Kabaivanska.
2014
New partnerships, new stages
Since 2014, we have collaborated with Teatro Carbonetti di Broni, staging productions such as Traviata, Trovatore, Tosca, Rigoletto, Bohème, and Aida. In 2017 we began working with the Fondazione Teatro Fraschini di Pavia, strengthening the Circolo's presence in the area's most prestigious venues.
Today
A living association, open to the city
Every year, from September to June, our venue hosts concerts twice a month featuring professional opera singers, celebrated artists, and young talent. Public concerts and opera selections also take place in landmark venues: Sala del Rivellino, Castello Visconteo, Collegio Borromeo, the University of Pavia's Cortile delle Magnolie, Politeama, Broletto, and Arnaboldi Palace. We are always looking for new venues and partnerships to bring opera across the city and surrounding area.
Meet the people who keep music alive in Pavia every day
Alberto Campari
President
Ezio Manelli
Vice President and Administrative Manager
Cesare Vitali
Artistic Director
Roberto Mussi
Secretariat
Lidia Sorisi
School project and foundation grant applications
Giorgio Valerio
Artistic events in coordination with the President
Rosa Vedovelli
Communications Manager
Be part of something meaningful: become a member
Joining Circolo Pavia Lirica means actively supporting music culture in the local area and taking part in association life, with access to member-focused updates, initiatives, and activities.
Membership fee: €50 per year. The fee may be updated annually by the Board of Directors.
For information on joining or renewing:
A simple gesture that makes a real difference: your 5x1000
If you love opera and music, you can support Circolo Pavia Lirica through your 5x1000 tax donation.
To donate, enter our tax code 00526770185 in your annual tax return. Your support helps us continue promoting music culture and supporting young talent.
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