On Wednesday, June 5, the Italian Consul General Thomas Botzios bestowed on Director of Orchestral Studies and Associate Professor of Conducting Emanuele Andrizzi, D.M.A., the Italian knighthood title Ufficiale dei Cavalieri dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia in Chicago.
“I am beyond proud and deeply humbled to share that I have been bestowed the high rank of Officer of the Knights of the Order of the Star of Italy,” said Dr. Andrizzi. “I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Consul General of Italy, Thomas Botzios; the Director of the Italian Cultural Institute Luca Di Vito; and the President of the Italian Republic Sergio Mattarella for this incredible honor. Your recognition means the world to me, and I am truly honored to receive this award.”
“Promoting the beauty of Italian music and supporting our talented musicians has always been my passion,” continued Andrizzi. “To be recognized for this work fills me with immense joy and gratitude. This award is not just for me, but for all those who share and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Italy. Thank you to all my friends, family, and colleagues who have been part of this incredible journey.”
“It seems just yesterday that I had the pleasure of welcoming Maestro Emanuele Andrizzi to join the conservatory faculty and lead our symphony orchestra,” said Executive Dean for Creativity & the Arts and Professor of Music Michael Stepniak, Ed.D. “This prestigious recognition is a testament not only to his exceptional talent and dedication to the arts, but to his significant contributions to the cultural and artistic landscape. I join the conservatory’s Interim Dean Jeff Marlatt and my many colleagues in being so immensely proud of his accomplishments and the honor he brings to our university.”
