Prada Foundation: tickets for “Riccardo Muti: Don Giovanni”

A Unique Glimpse into the Creative Process of Opera at Prada Foundation

If you’re visiting Milan and eager to see a different side of the city’s artistic scene, the Prada Foundation’s “Riccardo Muti: Don Giovanni” experience offers a rare chance to witness the creative process of a world-renowned conductor. For about 2.5 hours, you can attend rehearsals of Mozart’s “Don Giovanni,” led by the legendary Maestro Riccardo Muti himself. These rehearsals take place in the Deposito space at the Prada Foundation’s headquarters, nestled in the heart of Milan, and are a must for classical music aficionados seeking an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at how operas come to life.

What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to observe Maestro Muti’s working methods firsthand—from the first piano rehearsals to the detailed analysis of the score—giving you a much clearer view of the art and discipline behind a polished performance. The chance to see young conductors in action, guided by such an esteemed maestro, adds an inspiring educational element many other concerts simply can’t match.

A potential consideration is that access is limited to rehearsals only—there’s no actual performance during the ticketed event. Plus, the event is quite structured, with strict rules against food, drinks, photography, and audio/video recordings, which might disappoint those hoping to capture the moment. It’s best suited for those who appreciate musical craftsmanship and authentic artistic processes, rather than casual concert-goers just looking for a show.

Overall, if you’re passionate about classical music, conducting, or Mozart, this experience offers real value. It’s especially ideal for musicians in training, serious classical music fans, or anyone interested in how iconic operas are shaped behind the curtain.

Key Points

• Unique Access: Witness rehearsals of Mozart’s “Don Giovanni” led by Riccardo Muti.
• Educational Value: Learn about the conductor’s creative process, score analysis, and orchestral preparation.
• Limited Access: No recordings, photos, or food allowed during rehearsals.
• Authentic Experience: See young conductors in training under Maestro Muti’s guidance.
• Location: Held in the Deposito space at Prada Foundation in Milan.
• Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The Prada Foundation’s “Riccardo Muti: Don Giovanni” is more than just a ticket to see rehearsals; it’s a rare peek behind the curtain of a professional opera production. For music lovers, this is a chance to watch Maestro Riccardo Muti, a conductor with over fifty years of experience leading orchestras around the world, methodically shape a Mozart masterpiece. We loved the way Muti’s calm but focused approach brought a sense of discipline and passion to the rehearsals—an inspiring lesson for any aspiring musician.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Rehearsals take place in the early morning or afternoon, depending on availability, lasting about 2 hours and 30 minutes. The event begins at the Deposito space, a versatile venue within the Prada Foundation’s Milan headquarters. You’ll be welcomed into a space that’s both modern and functional, designed to facilitate musical collaboration.

Once inside, you’ll find yourself close enough to observe the subtle gestures and cues of Maestro Muti as he guides the orchestra, choir, and singers through Mozart’s complex score. The process involves score analysis, tempo choices, and balance adjustments—all part of making the final performance harmonious. Unlike a concert, these rehearsals are more casual but just as intense, giving you a raw look at the creative problem-solving that goes into staging a successful opera.

The Highlights: Why This Experience Stands Out

One of our favorite aspects was witnessing the Maestro’s pedagogical style. Through detailed explanations and gentle corrections, Muti shares not just technical tips but also his philosophy of music-making, making it a truly inspiring experience. We also appreciated that this isn’t just a spectacle but an educational event—ideal for those who want to deepen their understanding of conducting and opera.

Another highlight is the chance to see young conductors in training, which adds a layer of authenticity and hopefulness. You see the next generation of maestros learning from the best, giving a sense of continuity and tradition in classical music.

Practicalities and Considerations

While the experience is undoubtedly enriching, some practical points are worth noting:

• No recordings or photos are allowed during rehearsals, so you won’t be able to capture the moments for posterity.
• Food and drinks are also prohibited, so arrive well-fed and hydrated.
• Access to the auditorium is not permitted once rehearsals begin, meaning no late arrivals or early departures.
• The experience involves small group sizes, providing an intimate setting but also meaning tickets can sell out quickly.
• Tickets are priced to reflect the exclusive access and educational value, making it a worthwhile investment for those with a keen interest in opera and conducting.

More Great Tours Nearby

Accessibility and Venue

Located at Largo Isarco 2 in Milan, the Prada Foundation’s headquarters is easily accessible by public transportation. The rehearsals take place in a dedicated space designed to facilitate close observation, which enhances the intimacy of the experience. The venue’s modern aesthetic complements the innovative spirit of the event.

Who Would Benefit Most?

This experience is best suited for classical music enthusiasts who want a deeper understanding of opera production, students of music, or fans of Maestro Riccardo Muti. It’s also a compelling choice for musicians in training, as the detailed analysis and live guidance offer valuable learning opportunities. Casual opera lovers might find it fascinating but should be aware that this isn’t a traditional concert—rather, it’s an educational, behind-the-scenes event.

Final Thoughts

Attending the “Riccardo Muti: Don Giovanni” rehearsals at Prada Foundation presents a rare opportunity to see a master at work. The combination of world-class conductorship, educational insight, and the chance to observe young conductors in action makes this experience well worth considering for those passionate about classical music.

While it’s not a conventional concert, the value lies in the authenticity and intimacy of watching the creative process unfold in real time. The event offers a meaningful and inspiring perspective that many other musical experiences simply can’t match, especially with the added allure of being hosted in a contemporary art space like Prada.

In summary, if you’re looking to expand your understanding of opera and conducting, want a closer look at the artistic process, or simply love Mozart, this is an experience you won’t forget. It’s a rare gem in Milan’s cultural scene—ideal for those who want to see the heart and soul of a live rehearsal.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
While there’s no specific age restriction, the rehearsal setting and focus on musical analysis may be best appreciated by older children or teenagers interested in classical music.

Are tickets refundable?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Can I take photos or videos?
No, photography, video recording, and audio recording are strictly prohibited during rehearsals to protect the integrity of the process.

How long do rehearsals last?
Rehearsals are approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes long, giving you a substantial window to observe the process.

Where do the rehearsals take place?
They happen in the Deposito space at the Prada Foundation’s headquarters in Milan, located at Largo Isarco 2.

What’s included in the ticket?
Your ticket grants access to either a morning or afternoon rehearsal session.

Are there any other exhibitions at Prada Foundation?
No, the ticket does not include entry to current exhibitions or the Observatory, which are separate experiences.

Is the activity suitable for non-native Italian speakers?
Since the rehearsals are musical in nature, language is less critical, but some explanations by the conductor may be in Italian. Still, the visual and musical cues are largely universal.

How do I reserve a spot?
Tickets can be reserved online, with the option to pay later, making it easy to secure your place ahead of time.

This unique rehearsal experience at the Prada Foundation offers a peek into the artistry and discipline behind Mozart’s “Don Giovanni,” guided by one of the world’s most respected conductors. Whether you’re a serious music enthusiast, a student, or simply curious about how operas are made, this is a chance to see the process of musical creation in action—an opportunity well worth considering during your Milan visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: