Hungarian Chief Cantor performs at Trump’s Florida palace – video

One of the most defining moments of his career came on 10 December for Gergely Nógrádi, chief cantor of the Frankel Synagogue in Buda, who gave a concert at Donald Trump’s Florida residence, the world-famous Mar-a-Lago. The performance was held as part of celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of the purchase of the luxury estate, often referred to as the “American Versailles”. Appearing at the event series hosted at the 128-room residence, which is protected by exceptionally strict security measures, was a rare honour even for the internationally acclaimed Hungarian artist.

Performance interrupted by spontaneous applause

Over the past decades, Gergely Nógrádi has performed at iconic venues such as New York’s Carnegie Hall and Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw. Still, as he told Blikk, only four or five moments of similar significance occur in an artist’s lifetime. The concert at Mar-a-Lago undoubtedly ranks among these, particularly as the distinguished audience spontaneously broke into applause at one point, interrupting the performance.

A glimpse into the residence’s most impressive interiors

The chief cantor also had the opportunity to see some of the most spectacular rooms of the Florida estate, including the salon where the president has a private breakfast table, the 2,000-square-metre ballroom, and the living room with its gold-leaf ceiling, the decorations of which alone are estimated to be worth billions. From its gilded interiors to its private beachfront club, the splendour of Mar-a-Lago clearly demonstrates why it is considered one of the world’s most extraordinary private residences.

Exceptionally strict security arrangements

The performance was preceded by extremely rigorous security preparations. Nógrádi was vetted by the US Secret Service months in advance and received the detailed entry protocol only a week before the concert. Due to recent events, security measures were especially tight, something clearly reflected in the visibly armed guards and the complex system of checks throughout the residence.

A programme featuring both classical and popular music

The concert programme had to be approved in advance and included a mix of classical and light music pieces. Among others, Trump’s favourite ’O sole mio was performed, alongside Andrea Bocelli’s The Prayer, Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah, and works in Italian, French, English and Yiddish. One of the songs also featured a verse sung in Hungarian.

Trump did not attend the concert

Although Donald Trump was unable to attend the event in person, the presidential family was represented by his son, Eric Trump, who was present at the celebration. For Gergely Nógrádi, the performance will remain a lasting experience not only professionally but also on a personal level, fitting seamlessly among the most memorable milestones of his international career.

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