On March 28, 2017, there was a spectacular performance by the Cameristi della Scala Orchestra of Milan in honor of Arturo Toscanini in the East Hall of Union Station. The free concert included selections from Bellini’s “Capuleti and Montecchi”, Verdi’s “La Traviata”, and Donizetti’s “Don Pasquale” and featured a special appearance by soprano Mihaela Marcu.

The performance was attended by approximately 600 people, including representatives of the Italian Embassy, the Italian Cultural Institute, the World Bank, and the U.S. Government, as well as a number of surprised and delighted passengers departing and arriving in the station who just happened upon this world-class musical treat.

NBC4‘s Barbara Harrison was the emcee for the evening. Introductory remarks were given by Beverley Swaim-Staley, President and CEO of USRC, and Pietro Salini, CEO of Salini Impregilo Group. Salini Impregilo S.p.A and Lane Construction Corporation were the generous sponsors of this performance.

Starbucks in the Main Hall supplied the concert attendees with free Italian Roast coffee. Additionally, New York’s Rizzoli Bookstore‘s “Toscanini – The Maestro: A Life in Pictures” books were on sale at the concert and will now be available for a short time in Hudson News in Union Station.

USRC would like to thank the Cameristi della Scala Orchestra for a memorable musical evening and to all who came out to support the arts in Union Station.

Additional photos can be seen on USRC’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/usrcdc/posts/1239219392813319.
(Photo Credit: Jillian Hess, ‎USRC Public Relations and Outreach Coordinator)