Before the world came to know them as iL Volo, the internationally celebrated Italian operatic pop trio, they began their journey under a much simpler name: Tre Tenorini. This period, around 2009–2010, is often overlooked but is crucial in understanding how three young talents—Piero Barone, Ignazio Boschetto, and Gianluca Ginoble—developed the chemistry and skill that would later make them global stars.
As Tre Tenorini, the three boys were teenagers with immense vocal promise. Their performances focused heavily on classical Italian repertoire, including traditional operatic arias and popular Italian songs that showcased their natural tenor voices. While they did not yet have the polished production and global exposure they would later enjoy as iL Volo, their raw talent was undeniable. Their voices complemented each other in a way that hinted at the power of three distinct yet harmonious tenors. Early performances often featured a combination of solo passages and tight three-part harmonies, a blueprint for the sound that would define their later work.
One notable aspect of the Tre Tenorini era was their focus on authentic Italian songcraft. Unlike many young singers of the time who leaned heavily into contemporary pop arrangements, these teens celebrated the melodies, phrasing, and emotional depth of traditional Italian music. Songs like “O Sole Mio” and “’O Surdato ‘Nnamurato” were staples in their repertoire. While still learning the subtleties of live performance and audience engagement, their youthful enthusiasm and undeniable vocal gifts left a strong impression on those who saw them perform.
The transition from Tre Tenorini to iL Volo marked a turning point in both image and career trajectory. By the time they adopted the new name, the trio had gained the experience, confidence, and vocal control necessary to compete on international stages. Collaborations with established producers and performances on Italian television helped them refine their style, moving toward the operatic pop fusion that would later define hits like their rendition of “Grande Amore,” which won the Sanremo Music Festival in 2015. Looking back, it’s clear that the Tre Tenorini period was not merely a prelude but a formative stage where the trio learned to blend youthful energy with technical precision.
Listening to recordings or early footage of Tre Tenorini today, it is striking how much of their later identity was already present. Piero’s warm lyric tenor, Ignazio’s expressive phrasing, and Gianluca’s powerful operatic presence were all evident, though slightly rougher around the edges—a reminder of the growth that comes with time and experience. Fans often express nostalgia for this era, not out of disappointment with their current sound, but because it captures the innocence, excitement, and discovery of three young musicians at the very beginning of an extraordinary journey.
In the story of iL Volo, Tre Tenorini represents the spark. It was a period of learning, experimentation, and camaraderie, where three Italian teenagers began to understand what it meant to sing together, share emotion, and captivate an audience. Without this early chapter, the polished performances, awards, and international recognition that followed might not have been possible. Tre Tenorini may have been a fleeting name, but it remains an essential piece of iL Volo’s history—a reminder of humble beginnings and the undeniable power of young voices united by passion and talent.
