Tommy Emmanuel Keys To The City

Tommy Emmanuel keys to the city

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Rome, Italy, March 31, 2012: Australian guitarist, Tommy Emmanuel, has been the first musician to be awarded a medal from the city of Rome for his contribution to the arts.

The large, bronze medal imprinted with the city's coat of arms, was presented to Emmanuel by the mayor, Gianni Alemanno, during the inauguration ceremony of the newly vamped Piazza San Silvestro. Designed by architect, Paul Portuguese, the former bus terminal has been converted to a beautiful, open area with the intention of creating a hub for meetings, performances, demonstrations and exhibitions. The square will become a significant gathering place, situated in the heart of Rome's famous Trident district.

Once the Piazza San Silvestro was officially opened with the cutting of ribbon, Emmanuel was given a glowing introduction to the stage by Dino Gasperini, Councillor for Cultural and Historical Center of Rome Capital. A short performance followed, marking Emmanuel out as the first artist to play in the new square. Alemanno then presented Emmanuel with the ornate box containing the medal as photographers crowded in to capture the moment.

The prestigious award was also awarded to the legendary James Taylor later the same day. Both Taylor and Emmanuel were recognised and thanked for their attention to Rome in their tours. Emmanuel played a concert that night in Rome at the Atlantico, one of four Italian shows before starting another European tour in Berlin, Germany, on April 12.