by Alessandra Ressa
In the heart of Trieste, an unexpected venue is set to host an evening of traditional Irish music that promises to transport its audience back through centuries of Celtic history. On Monday, May 20, at 6:30 PM, the Adriatic Speleology Society invites the public to the Speleology Museum SPELEOVIVARIUM Erwin Pichl at Via Reni 2/c for a concert by the celebrated duo Gwen & Gowen, featuring Michele Veronese and Guido Pecorelli.
This unique event, marking the culmination of the European Night of Museums and the INSIEMI open week for Small Museums, is a testament to Trieste’s vibrant cultural tapestry. The concert, open to the public at no charge, promises an immersive experience within the museum’s atmospheric tunnel, isolated from the disturbances of the outside world.
Michele Veronese and Guido Pecorelli, the talents behind Gwen & Gowen, are known for their meticulous dedication to the authenticity of Irish folk music. Their repertoire spans from the 1600s to the early 1900s, covering airs, ballads, reels, and jigs that have been preserved and passed down through generations. In their performances, they eschew modern arrangements, often opting for the raw, unembellished sounds of voice and bodhrán, or simple combinations of plucked instruments, voice, and flutes.
The duo’s passion for music and deep philological research is evident in every note, as they blend high-quality execution with a dynamic stage presence. Their lively rhythms, originally intended for dancing, have evolved into melodies that convey joy and good humor, promising to captivate and delight their audience.
Adding to the evening’s allure, the concert will be preceded by a presentation from archaeologist Anita Pinagli. Pinagli will guide attendees on an evocative journey from the coasts of Ireland’s County Kerry to the Lower Tauern mountains in Austria, unraveling the mystery of the inverted boat chapel on Glattjoch, standing at an elevation of 1,988 meters. This narrative will offer a glimpse into the only such chapel in the Alps, blending historical intrigue with scenic splendor.
Complementing the musical and historical voyage, the event will feature the enchanting illustrations of Manuela Alzetta, enhancing the sensory experience of the evening.
As seats for this extraordinary event are limited, early arrival is encouraged. Reservations can be made by calling 349-135-7631 or emailing speleovivarium@email.it.
Join us for an evening that promises not just a concert, but a journey through time and tradition, in the enchanting underground world of Trieste’s Speleovivarium.