Valdobbiadene, Italy—A unique tribute to the beloved Italian singer Little Tony is set to open its doors on March 1st, offering fans a comprehensive seem into the life and career of the artist who captivated audiences for decades. The “Little Tony Collection,” housed within the 500-square-meter Palazzo Simon Benetton, promises to be a permanent exhibition celebrating the legacy of a musical icon, and is expected to draw fans of Little Tony and boost tourism to the Prosecco hills region. This Little Tony museum is a testament to the enduring power of his music and the deep connection he forged with his fans.
Roberto Valerio, an entrepreneur and longtime friend of Little Tony, is the driving force behind the museum. Valerio first met the singer in 1978 after a concert in Valdobbiadene, sparking a friendship that lasted until Little Tony’s death in 2013. He has amassed a remarkable collection of memorabilia, including two classic Cadillac automobiles, a vast array of records and a vintage jukebox, stage costumes, posters, and personal writings. “It’s essentially a permanent museum, unique in the world, dedicated to ‘cuore matto’ [crazy heart], one of our champions of music,” Valerio stated.
The project has garnered enthusiastic support from local officials. Luciano Fregonese, the mayor of Valdobbiadene, expressed his delight, noting that the museum represents a significant cultural addition to the area. He highlighted the region’s growing tourism numbers, with 72,403 overnight stays recorded last year, a 16.70% increase from the 62,054 stays in the previous year. Fregonese similarly pointed to Little Tony’s widespread popularity, estimating that he has approximately 7 million fans across Italy alone.
A Friendship Forged in Music
Valerio’s dedication to preserving Little Tony’s memory stems from their enduring friendship. He recounts how Little Tony would often stay with him when visiting Montebelluna, enjoying the comforts of a specially furnished apartment. “Little Tony was a great friend to me,” Valerio shared. “Every time he came to Montebelluna, he was my guest. I furnished a studio apartment for him according to his taste, with a mini-bar. I miss our long phone calls when he was on tour very much. Sometimes we talked until 3 a.m., and my wife would tease me, saying we seemed like a couple of lovers.” Valerio also served as Little Tony’s godfather for his son’s confirmation.
Following Little Tony’s passing in 2013, Valerio continued to maintain relationships with the singer’s family and institutions in San Marino and Tivoli, cities closely associated with the artist’s life, and career. He organized commemorative events and concerts, particularly in Montebelluna, which bestowed honorary citizenship upon Little Tony.
Opening Details and Public Access
The inauguration of the Little Tony Collection on March 1st will be an invitation-only event. But, the museum will open to the public on March 5th, operating from Thursday to Sunday, from 9:30 a.m. To 12:30 p.m. And from 4:00 p.m. To 8:00 p.m., with continuous hours during the Antica Fiera di San Gregorio fair. Admission will be free, with visitors encouraged to make donations if they wish. The museum aims to provide an immersive experience for fans, showcasing the breadth of Little Tony’s talent and the impact he had on Italian popular culture.
The Comune di Valdobbiadene is actively collaborating with the local tourism board (IAT) to promote the museum and attract visitors. Mayor Fregonese emphasized that the exhibition will be a valuable addition to the region’s tourism offerings, and the city of Montebelluna is also contributing to the initiative. The hope is that the Little Tony Collection will not only honor the singer’s memory but also contribute to the economic vitality of the area.
Little Tony’s Enduring Legacy
Born Antonio Coclite in San Marino in 1945, Little Tony rose to fame in the 1960s with hits like “Cuore Matto” and “24mila Baci.” He became a beloved figure in Italian music, known for his energetic performances and charismatic stage presence. His music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, and his influence can be seen in the work of contemporary artists. The opening of this museum provides a permanent space to celebrate his contributions to Italian music and culture.
The Little Tony Collection promises to be a significant cultural attraction for the Valdobbiadene area, drawing fans and tourists alike. The museum’s opening marks a fresh chapter in the preservation of Little Tony’s legacy, ensuring that his music and memory will continue to inspire generations to come. Further information about the museum, including potential future events and exhibitions, will be available through the Comune di Valdobbiadene’s tourism office.
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