To the rhythm of these drums and trumpets, the Tamburi Imperiali di Comiso Orchestra traveled nearly 500 miles for their music to be heard here, in Italy's most important square.
They come from Sicily and are participating in Pope Francis' General Audience for the second time. It's an experience that excites them and one they say allows them to “honor the pope and bring him closer to their situation.”
DAVIDE CILIO
Tamburi Imperiali di Comiso Orchestra
“The excitement of playing in Italy's most important square is the top for us. We have received this great honor, which we are very happy about.”
The orchestra is composed of 26 people. There are 19 drums and five trumpets. In addition, they always carry this flag with them.
The orchestra's secretary says some of the musicians experienced a deepening of faith when they were here last year. That's why it was worth traveling so far to be heard again.
DAVIDE CILIO
Tamburi Imperiali di Comiso Orchestra
“The difference is that the group is growing in number and in spirit. That's why we are happy we came the first year and have decided to come again this year for spiritual growth.”
The band assures they dedicate a lot of time throughout the year to be able to show off on days like today, but they rehearse outside of Comiso. Now that their spectacle is back here, it's hard not to stop and listen.
