Twelve primary schools from across Victoria took part in this year’s singing event, moving and delighting the audience with a carefully curated selection of songs drawn from both the classic and more recent Zecchino d’Oro repertoire.
In front of a packed theatre, the children enchanted everyone with their angelic voices as they sang in what is, for most of them, their second language.
Artistic director Gisella Cozzo expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming participation and enthusiasm of both the audience and the schools involved, as well as for the dedication of all the teachers.
“The Zecchino d’Oro in Melbourne is becoming a joyful tradition within Australia’s multicultural landscape, spreading and celebrating Italian culture, language and heritage through its musical gems,” Cozzo said.
This second edition also introduced a new category for younger children, whose performances charmed and captivated the audience.
Cozzo and her husband Michelangelo Di Gregorio are credited with bringing to Melbourne an important piece of Italy’s beloved musical tradition.
As Cozzo reflected, one day those young performers will proudly be able to say, “I was at the Zecchino d’Oro of Melbourne.”
