The annual Verdi Festival takes place in one of Italy’s most beautiful historic cities, Parma. It is here in the countryside around Parma that Verdi was born, grew up and lived for much of his life. The special charm of Parma’s Verdi Festival is that performances take place not just in the Teatro Regio, one of the loveliest theatres in Italy, but also at the Teatro Verdi in Busseto when singers from the Verdi Voci Competition get a chance to perform. In addition to the performances, we will explore sites associated with the great composer, visit several important museums, and enjoy the delicious cuisine for which this region is famous. The tour will be led by art historian and opera specialist, Patrick Bade.