Addamus Blog

Italian Choral Programme - Milan

27th July 2025 | Written by MaryKate (Alto 1)

After such a great introductory day in Venice, I think the general sentiment was that we were reluctant to travel to Milan on the 7:15am train. But we were welcomed by the cool morning and the sun peeking over the Venetian skyline.

The train journey delivered gorgeous views of mountains to the north, and we tried spotting all the bell towers or church domes as we passed villages.

We arrived at Milano Centrale Station and took in the grandiose architecture, evocative of both Ancient Rome and Art Deco styles.

A short metro ride took us to the Milan Duomo. The first sight of its imposing facade is intimidating, yet we were warmly welcomed into a Mass said in Latin. The singing from the Men and Boys Choir lifted our spirits, just as the copious (like really impressive) amounts of incense rose to the impossibly high ceilings.

After a bit of shopping, we stopped for lunch at Gatto Rosso in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II of a traditional bolognese over tagliatelle. We were sat in the corridor, so we enjoyed people watching in one of the biggest fashion and economic centers in Europe. A quick stop for Dubai chocolate gelato fueled us for the walk to La Scala. We immediately made plans to come back someday to see a show in this historic theatre! It was humbling to walk the same halls so many music historic figures like Puccini, Rossini, and Maria Callas spent so much time.

We rested our feet in the piazza in front of La Scala, and again people watched. So many amazing fashions, cute dogs, cool cars, and a pilgrim procession (with percussion!).

Finally, we gathered to enter the Duomo to sing Mass. We were led around the apse, where we got an amazingly privileged view of the elaborate stained glass windows and ancient tapestries. Truly, an astonishing experience.

Singing Mass at the Milan Duomo presented new challenges in acoustics and liturgy, which we collectively navigated successfully as experienced professionals. The celebrant beautifully expressed his thanks for our assistance, and again, the warmth with which the Addamus Choral Interrail has been received is unparalleled. It is our joy and honor to bring this special beauty into the world.

After a quick photo in front of the high altar, we enjoyed camaraderie over delicious pasta and risotto at Osteria Papà Nicola. We’ve come to know each other so well, personally and artistically, in such a short amount of time; the Interrail has been truly one of the most special and fulfilling experiences I’ve ever had. I don’t want it to end!

MaryKate (Alto 1)