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News & Events
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A Show Simply SuperFantastico Encouraging Italian Music to the Next Generation
by Chiara Folini
18 lucky finalists partook in a singing competition that began last with auditions at Leonard da Vinci Centre. To date, SuperFantastico IhasnJuneMarch, gained much popularity, having been promoted on the radios of Italian 968 D epuis 1
Photo Galleria by Caserta
homes across the city and getting recognized across North America. This show could not have reached such extraordinary heights without the incredibly generous support of many sponsors, including CFMB radio 1280 am and its co-hosts Silvana Di Flavio and Nick de Vincenzo. Superfantastico is a platform for singers to hone their vocal skills and to perform on the renowned stage at Place des Arts, where many others singing sensations once played. Since its inception in 1995 at the auditorium of Collège Jean-Eudes, the competition has come a long way. What started out as a small production 15 years ago has turned into a big event marked in the calendars of hundreds of Montrealers who are proud of their Italian heritage, culture and language. The Italian singing competition concept stemmed from a half-hour program that was airing on Montreal’s foreign-language radio station CFMB, where children would call in and sing an Italian tune on air. Radio hosts Nick De Vincenzo and Silvana Di Flavio saw there was demand to have a show catering to young singers and music lovers alike. “It’s all about the young generation touching base with their Italian roots by spreading the Italian language and culture,” Silvana asserts. Before show time, contestants expressed how SuperFantastico was integral to their musical development. “The progress of each participant was not only vocal but some artists increased their self-esteem and came out looking like stars,” Silvana says with pride. The finals at Place des Arts featured short video clips, introducing the next singer as they took the stage. Compared to other years, the accompaniment of the live band added a special touch to the riveting performances. As is tradition, Dominic Micelli, last year’s winner, came back on stage to perform “Stai Con Me”. As a newcomer to the judge scene, high-profile songwriter Vincenzo Incenzo, noted his excitement to be in Montreal for this competition. “In Montreal, si trovano Italiani che sono piu Italiani degli Italiani d’Italia.” It was a special moment when Vincenzo graced the stage with his performance. “This is a great avenue for artist development and for young singers to bloom,” says returning judge Ivan Berry. It’s been 15 years of high quality performance.” Canadian Idol judge Farley Flex also returned to be part of the panel of judges in honour of his love of Italian music. “It’s not about understanding the language. Music is about rhythm and intensity. I love culture preservation and appreciation and this show does just that, it reunites generations of Italian Montrealers.” Larry Mancini and Giorgia Fumanti were also judges. In addition to strong vocals, stage presence, confidence, versatility, good song choice and connection with the audience were also determining factors in choosing the standout performance of the night. Vincenzo Incenzo knows all too well about undiscovered talent when he hears it. Enrico Riccio was the one whose powerful, energetic and mesmerizing performance made it clear that he had become one of the front runners. As soon as Enrico finished his song, the crowd cheered with enthusiasm. Enrico was proclaimed the winner of SuperFantastico 2010 for his rousing rendition of Andrea Bocelli’s Il Mare Calmo della Sera. Claudia Vaccaro captivated the audience with Minuetto, placing her in second position. Gina Cuffaro is a SuperFantastico veteran; she has participated every single year since she was 12. She came in third place for her song interpretation of Spiove il Sole. Th e w i n n e r o f S u p e r Fantastico receives a paid week to visit the music conservatoire in a villa in Frascati. Enrico will be eating, breathing, and discovering all aspects of Italian Tel.: 514 270 6701 RESTAURANT Fax: 514 270 0389 music with specialized seminars 6701 boul. Saint-Laurent taught each day by Italian Montréal, QC H2S 3C8 artists. Each participant is given Fine Cuisine Italienne www.ristorantepiccolaitalia.com a trophy and a keepsake from Lancaster Jewellers, while gift certificates from Lancaster and Le Château are offered to the top three positions. Sabrina Inglesi won the People’s Choice Award, as determined by online votes. “Being so proud of our Italian culture, goes beyond music, fashion and food. Part of this competition process allows young adults to be introduced to Italian artists and keep them intact with the beautiful l a n g u a g e,” S i l v a n a s a y s. “That philosophy has remained true to SuperFantastico, even 15 years later. It’s not a competition; each singer is considered a winner.” v
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