Sunday, February 04, 2007

Ennio Morricone

Last night my husband and sister went to see Ennio Morricone, the extraordinary Italian soundtrack composer, perform at Radio City Music Hall. Despite a career that spands over 40 years, last night was Morricone's debut performance in the United States.

How cool for them to be seeing this musical legend during such an historical event!

Ennio Morricone has a singular gift for combining contemporary and classical musical forms into truly unforgettable soundtracks. Even in the spaghetti westerns he worked on, you can hear fine threads of Italian influence in the music.

I LOVE the song Providenza (which I'm sure I'm spelling wrong!). And if you've ever had the pleasure of seeing The Mission (Jeremy Irons/Robert DeNiro), Once Upon a Time in American or Cinema Paradiso (which I also LOVED) and found yourself bursting into tears like I did periodically through each film - - well you can thank Ennio Morricone for ripping your heart out of your chest - kissing it - and returning it safely back where it belongs.

My husband is a musician who writes and performs music beautifully. I'm so happy he had a chance to fuel his soul last night. My sister Elizabeth - - who loves all things Italian and studies the language and culture -- was super nice to invite him as her guest.

5 comments:

Linda said...

what a heartwarming post. and how nice to have a musical husband.

hope you're getting through the cold better than I am!

sidenote: my boyfriend and I are looking for some new digs in the E.Village -- we need more space. we're looking for a 1 br, no fee, 2300-ish for March. if you get wind of anything, let me know :) we MUST move but we don't want to go far.

Floridora said...

That is the kind of memory that sticks with you for life.

Michael said...

One of my life's regrets is that I left my study of music back in my childhood. In grade school, I played the flute and really enjoyed it. Then I switched to the upright bass and really enjoyed that. What would've happened had I continued to play? Your husband is very lucky.

I loved "The Mission," by the way. Very powerful film. Thank you, Mr. Morricone.bnxca

Susan from Food Blogga said...

Lovely story. I'm so glad I discovered your blog.

Plus, you've got great taste in films!

Susan from Food "Blogga"

ellesu said...

Ummmm....more movies to add to my netflix "queue."

....I understand netflix is great, but I wouldn't know since I somehow entered an incorrect shipping address and have yet to receive any of my selections.... (My fault entirely.)

What a wonderful evening for your hubby and sister.