Chiavenna finds itself in a remarkably fortunate geographical location with extraordinary landscapes and endless potential, attracting visitors throughout the year. At the same time the valley has proved to be a focal point for artistic and cultural activities. Traditional crotti in Pratogiano, much appreciated by both local and tourist as excellent dining spots, also play host to the headquarters of the legendary Coro Nivalis, a male voice choir which first came together in 1964. The founder and first director of the group, Flavio Bossi was to lead the choir for 25 years which from that very first meeting was to become a firm fixture in Valchiavenna musical culture. The deep traditions of the territory, with the surrounding snow capped mountains for protection, include a common passion for popular, religious and indeed secular singing. Hence the intense relationships that have firmly united the members of the choir for more than half a century still represent the fundamental values that initiated a long journey together.
For sixty years now the Coro Nivalis has been performing, and not only on a local level. In churches, whose elevated ceilings amplify the voices; within nature and the mountains, natural stages that can create an intense and engaging atmosphere; but also schools, theatres, and public events are spaces that have welcomed the Chiavenna ensemble over many years. The choristers have also contributed their artistic talents in demonstrations of solidarity. Essentially, over the decades the choir has taken the opportunity to perform in the most prestigious Italian theatres, including the teatro Regio di Parma and the Carcano theatre in Milan.
The Chiavenna choral tradition has also been exported further afield: the Coro Nivalis was invited to Colorado in 1985 for the “Denver Italian Festival,” and at a later date to Philadelphia for the “Colombian Celebrations”. As a sign of recognition and appreciation in 2011 the Municipality of Chiavenna declared the historic Coro Nivalis to be a “Choral ensemble of Municipal importance”, an honour endorsed shortly afterwards by the Ministry for Cultural Heritage when it recognised the choir as a “Group of Popular and Recreational Music on a national level”. In 1998, Flavio Bosso was succeeded by Leonardo Del Barba who was to lead it with passion to its 50th anniversary. Since 2015 the task has been entrusted to his son Gabriele who takes things forward in a continuing search for choral virtuosity. Over the years, the repertoire has been enriched with songs by foreign composers, demanding consideration of new languages and texture.
