Rossini's hidden art collection and personal artifacts on display in Pesaro and Fano

Two exhibitions in the Marche region reveal the multifaceted personality of Gioachino Rossini. In Pesaro, the show is structured in three sections: the first presents artworks from the prestigious Hercolani collection, which Rossini acquired months before his death as repayment for a loan. This collection spans from 14th-century Bolognese art to Venetian Renaissance and 18th-century busts of Napoleon, along with furniture and porcelain. The second section, curated by the Conservatorio Gioachino Rossini (founded by his testamentary bequest), displays manuscripts, scores, librettos, and photographs, many exhibited for the first time. The third section is a multimedia theatrical installation by Emanuele Aldrovandi featuring videos, objects, and documents. In Fano, the Museo Archeologico del Palazzo Malatestiano hosts an intellectual exhibition focusing on Rossini's early career. It highlights his debut at age nine playing viola at the Teatro della Fortuna, designed by scenographer Giacomo Torelli. The show includes anonymous oil paintings reproducing Torelli's baroque stage designs, autographed letters and scores revealing Rossini's character, and video interviews with classical music personalities. Both exhibitions aim to engage the public through original setups and interactivity.