Nine - Musical Magic

This was one of the two moments I teared up while in Italy, which means it is essential that it make the top ten.

While walking the streets of Florence one evening, we pleasantly stumbled upon this:

Because half of you probably won't actually watch the video, and the other half will want an explanation of the video, allow me to give it now. The feelings I had while standing in the Piazza della Signoria listening to a full orchestra and choir perform classical music were pretty indescribable. Some words that come to mind are amazing, beautiful, moving, and unbelievable.

It was one of those moments where I looked around and thought, "I cannot possibly be experiencing this." It was so moving. The performers were exceptional, and the poor video and sound quality really don't do them justice in the slightest, but at least you can have an idea of what it was like.

We were also surrounded by Italians who had come to pack the square and enjoy the beautiful evening together. What I LOVED though, was the feeling there was very different from an outdoor concert in the states. It was so QUIET. Everyone was enjoying the masterpieces being performed. No one was pushing or shoving. Even though the piazza was packed, there was plenty of space to stand and enjoy. Everyone was so courteous towards each other and I loved that.

Chad and I stayed for the whole concert and met up with the rest of the family back at the hotel at the end of the night. I'm glad we stayed because that's when the choir and soloists from the video clip above performed, which was the icing on the cake as far as I'm concerned.

It was just a magical evening.