In brief
Club dei 27, an elite men's club in Parma, Italy, honors Giuseppe Verdi with an unusual membership policy and deep-rooted traditions. Members celebrate Verdi's birthday by singing his works, showcasing their collective passion and exclusivity, which starkly contrasts with the famous musicians of the 27 Club.
In the charming town of Parma, Italy, an exclusive society known as Club dei 27 holds a unique claim to fame, exclusively celebrating the legacy of the renowned opera composer Giuseppe Verdi. This club, which requires that new members are admitted only upon the retirement or passing of an existing member, cultivates an atmosphere steeped in both reverence and camaraderie. The club takes its peculiar name from the operatic works of Verdi, reflecting each member’s deep affection for the composer.Celebrations within Club dei 27 are markedly different from customary birthday festivities. For instance, during Verdi's recent birthday event, members eschewed the widely recognized “Happy Birthday” tune in favor of the emotionally resonant “Va Pensiero” from the opera “Nabucco.” This piece, beloved across Italy, has even sparked proposals to become the country's national anthem, encapsulating the members' shared passion for Verdi's artistry.The members of this group come from a mosaic of professional backgrounds, ranging from bankers and doctors to vegetable vendors, united by their devotion to Verdi. The club operates with a waiting list for potential members, underscoring its exclusivity. Upon learning of a new request for membership, current members are prone to jokingly “touch wood” to stave off any untimely fatalities among existing members.This distinctive ritual differentiates Club dei 27 from the infamous 27 Club, which signifies a tragic pattern of musicians who have passed away at the age of 27—offering a stark reminder of mortality in the arts. Instead, Club dei 27 focuses on longevity and the celebration of life through music.During the most recent birthday toast for Verdi on October 10, the club president, Enzo Petrolini, raised a glass to the maestro. Members rallied in response with exclamations of “Viva Verdi,” signaling their enduring dedication to the composer and their shared heritage. Club dei 27 continues to thrive as a sanctuary for those who cherish Verdi, ensuring that his legacy resonates in their lives and, through their unique gatherings, very much alive.
