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🎶 BBC Arias and Appetites: Italian opera meets cuisine
- Bite
- 2 hours ago
- 1 min read
From the soaring drama of Verdi to the indulgent flair of Rossini, Italy’s operatic legacy is steeped in passion—and so is its food. In a sumptuous new series airing on BBC Radio 3 from 17th–21st November, acclaimed TV producer Walter Iuzzolino invites listeners on a sensory journey through the kitchens and concert halls of Italy, exploring the deep-rooted connection between music and cuisine.
“Arias and Appetites” blends cultural history with culinary storytelling, uncovering how legendary composers like Puccini, Verdi, and Rossini found inspiration not only in melody but in the flavours of their native regions. Each episode pairs a celebrated chef with a musical maestro, offering listeners a taste of the dishes that defined these composers’ lives—and the operatic moments where food takes centre stage.
Highlights include:
Giorgio Locatelli at the National Gallery, recreating Cannelloni alla Rossini while exploring the composer’s love of rich, indulgent fare.
Renato Balsadonna, conductor and Puccini expert, tasting a beloved Tuscan dish at the Belvedere in Holland Park.
Francesco Dibenedetto, head chef at the Peninsula Hotel, in conversation with rising conductor Nicolo Foron about Verdi’s palate, culminating in a recipe for Spalla Cotta—Italy’s answer to cooked ham.
On-location recordings in Rome and Sicily, where Walter delves deeper into the regional roots of Italy’s operatic and culinary traditions.
Whether you’re an opera aficionado or a devoted foodie, this series promises a feast for the ears and imagination. With Walter’s signature warmth and curiosity, Arias and Appetites offers a rare glimpse into the lives of Italy’s musical giants—through the dishes they loved and the stories they inspired.
Airs daily at 12:00 Nov - 17-21st
