A unique violin stage on the Venice canals.

On the morning of September 18th, a giant violin carrying four musicians appeared on the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy, to enthusiastic applause from the public.

The violin boat, named "Noah's Violin," is approximately 12 meters long and made from various types of wood. It has an environmentally friendly electric motor for propulsion on the water. The manufacturer stated that the successful launch of this violin boat signals the recovery of the tourist city of Venice after a difficult period due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The idea came from artist Livio De Marchi, a resident of Venice. He said: "The name 'Noah's Violin' conveys a message of rebirth after the storm, and is also a way to promote the city's art, culture, and music."

According to those involved in the boat's construction, the project revived the enthusiasm of the Giudecca Island shipyard after the darkest days of the pandemic. Even private workshops, upon learning of the idea, offered to help complete the boat. "The boat has brought us closer together. We completed it with all our hearts," said one of the boat builders.

The violin's journey was relatively smooth, although De Marchi was slightly worried whenever the neck of the violin became misaligned or the sheet music occasionally flew off its stand. Fortunately, the musicians remained steady on the violins to play, and they still delivered perfect performances.

Speaking about her feelings on this special "stage," Caterina Camozzi, a musician on the boat, said: "Playing music amidst the wind and waves was a memorable challenge for me." Cellist Tiziana Gasparoni shared: "As a Venetian and a musician, this was the most emotional experience of my life."

Escorted by a fleet of gondolas, sandoli, and motorboats, the "Noah's Violin" boat travels through the canals of Venice for about an hour, from the City Hall to the Rialto Bridge, the Customs House, and the La Salute Church. During this time, visitors gather at the bridges, along the banks of the Grand Canal, and on other small boats to watch the unique concert, featuring works by composers Bach and Schubert.

Upon docking, the production team held a brief ceremony attended by members, their families, and friends. During the ceremony, a priest offered congratulations on the success of the violin boat and expressed hope that this special vessel "will travel the world carrying a message of hope." The producers also stated that the violin has received much interest from across Italy and museums in China.

Huyen Chau