Inside a prison in Parma, in Emilia Romagna, a striking transformation is taking place. Nearly six years ago, a workshop devoted to Italian opera led to the creation of a men’s choir made up of inmates of various ages – mostly in their 20s through 40s, with a few older participants as well.
Many of them once listened mainly to rap, pop or traditional music, yet now they spend their days rehearsing pieces by major Italian composers. What began as a simple educational idea has turned into something deeper – proof that art can restore dignity and open emotional space even within confinement.
