Festival Napa Valley Sophia Loren Son, Grandson, Ponti Perform

There are so very many things to do in Napa Valley besides drinking wine. And this week, I treated myself and friends to an annual treat of cultural arts at Festival Napa Valley is an organization with a mission to bring the arts to all through world-class performances and inspiring arts education programs.

Headquartered in Napa, California and overseen by a dedicated board of prominent vintners and local leaders, the Festival enriches the heart and soul of Napa Valley through its diverse programs. More than 200 artists, wineries, resorts, theaters, restaurants, chefs, and vintners participate each year, joining with audiences, patrons, staff and volunteers to create a vibrant and vital community.
 

Last night, festival-goers were delighted by Maestro Carlo Ponti, Founder and Conductor of Los Angeles Virtuosi Orchestra. Ponti is known for taking audiences of all ages on musical journeys of unique interpretive depth. He has served as Associate Conductor of the Russian National Orchestra and Music Director/Principal Conductor of the San Bernardino Symphony.

In 2013, Loren's son founded the Los Angeles Virtuosi Orchestra. The ensemble's mission is to support music education and giving back to the community. In fact, the orchestra gives 100 percent of its net revenue from subscription performances to the advancement of music education

Ponti’s numerous accolades include:

2006 Premio Galileo Award for International contributions to the cultural and intellectual history of Italy

2008 Artistic Achievement Award from the Virginia Waring International Piano Competition

2009 Spirit of Hope Award from the Childhelp Foundation for contributions to the development and advancement of young musical talents

The iconic Charles Krug Winery was the backdrop for a great night at Festival Napa Valley savoring “Maria Manetti Celebrates La Dolce Vita! honoring Sophia Loren”. We experienced the essence of la dolce vita at this historic evening honoring the Academy Award-winning actress and silver screen icon, Sophia Loren. The Festival celebrated Loren’s legacy with a captivating concert that brought together exceptional music, talent, and family. Maestro Carlo Ponti, Sophia Loren’s son, led his dynamic Los Angeles Virtuosi Orchestra, and Carlo’s own son, 16-year-old pianist, Vittorio Ponti, made his festival debut.

The program started with a video welcome by 90 year old, film actress legend, Sophia Loren, followed by a crafty video of film cameos from her past. And the highlight, introduction from her son, Maestro Carlo Ponti who 

led us through 80 minutes of classical music and ending with boastful, standing ovations. Brilliantly performed, Ms Loren's grandson, Carlo's eldest son, 16 year-old, Vittorio Ponti, masterfully tickled the ivories, playing along with the Los Angeles Virtuosi Orchestra for the below latter movements:

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