A world-renowned lyric soprano, Katia Ricciarelli took her first steps into the world of singing at the Benedetto Marcello Conservatory in Venice. The key word is determination, as she herself explains whilst paying tribute to the school that guided her towards an exceptional career and which is now celebrating its 150th anniversary. A book published by Marsilio Arte also marks the celebrations for this historic institution

Ever since I was a young girl, I was certain I wanted Iris Adami Corradetti as my teacher; in fact, when I was thirteen, I found the courage to travel from Rovigo to Venice on the day the teachers’ meeting was being held at the Benedetto Marcello Conservatory in preparation for the new academic year. I introduced myself to her and told her I’d like to study with her. Impressed, she replied that it was too early and that I should come back a little later. I left empty-handed, but then I returned at the right time and, with great dedication, began studying with her – she was the only teacher I’ve ever had. I owe a great deal to Venice, to the Conservatory and to its teachers. Once there, I was chosen by Father Pellegrino Ernetti, who conducted Gregorian chant on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore and was looking for singers for the choir. I joined at a time when very few people were familiar with Gregorian chant, and I went on to obtain my diploma. I received great guidance from everyone at the Conservatory, and I’m proud of that. I lived right across from the Conservatory, in a very small room. I had very few resources, but I didn’t mind; I’d eat hard-boiled eggs just so I could study, and I know what determination means. Thankfully, I’ve always been surrounded by capable people – both amongst the teachers and amongst my friends. I’ve always had a clear sense of purpose; I grew up with my mother and my sisters, and I wanted to achieve things not just for myself, but for my family too.
I never experienced any difficult times during my studies, and I’m proud of what I achieved and where I did it. The Venice Conservatory is an extraordinary place: its beauty, combined with that of Venice itself, along with my love for what I was doing, made that period of my life truly incredible. I lived in Venice for ten years. My mother, who worked as a school caretaker, had the courage to leave Rovigo and come and live with me in the city so as not to leave me on my own. It was truly a family journey, characterised by a great love for what I was doing. It was all perfect.
Today I try to pass on this knowledge to the young people I mentor, because without such discipline you won’t get anywhere. I try to make them understand what it means to commit to singing: it’s not just about having a voice, but about training it. I always spent time with people older than me, who knew a lot of things I knew nothing about and wanted to learn. Learning is essential, and we must make the most of those who can help us do so. We need to study and learn; simply possessing the gift of singing is not enough. We have a duty to do and know much more because we are performing in front of an audience. Places like the Benedetto Marcello Conservatory also teach this, and I hope that young people hold on tight to their drive and their passions – fundamental qualities if they wish to master this profession.

Katia Ricciarelli

BIO
Katia Ricciarelli, born in Rovigo on 18 January 1946, is one of the most celebrated Italian opera singers on the international stage.
After studying at the Benedetto Marcello Conservatory in Venice under the guidance of the soprano Iris Adami Corradetti, she made her debut in 1969 in the role of Mimì in Giacomo Puccini’s La bohème. In 1971, she won first prize at the RAI’s International Verdi Singing Competition, marking the start of an extraordinary international career.
She has performed at the world’s most prestigious theatres, including La Scala in Milan, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the Royal Opera House in London, the Opéra de Paris and the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow, collaborating with great conductors and world-renowned artists.
Particularly acclaimed for the beauty of her tone, the elegance of her phrasing and the intensity of her performances, she tackles a vast repertoire ranging from Rossini, Bellini and Donizetti to Verdi and Puccini, leaving a significant mark on the history of operatic performance.
Alongside her musical career, she has devoted herself to film and television, winning the prestigious Nastro d’Argento in 2006 for her performance in Pupi Avati’s film La seconda notte di nozze.
Always committed to nurturing the next generation, she founded the Katia Ricciarelli International Opera Academy, dedicating herself to promoting and developing young talent.
His career stands as a fine example of dedication to the arts, a passion for music and a commitment to promoting Italian opera culture around the world.