Classical star keeps Italian studies in tune

VIRTUOSO violinist Nicola Benedetti is backing a scholarship that will help a student further her research into Italian literature.

The Scots-born classical music star is a patron of an Edinburgh University scheme to provide scholarships for postgraduate Italian studies students.

Susanna Grazzini, from Siena in Italy, is coming to the Capital this month to study the work of the acclaimed Italian writer Carlo Emilio Gadda.

Susanna was one of eight students invited to submit a piece about an aspect of Gadda’s writing, and her work was judged to be the best entry.

The Nicola Benedetti Scholarship Fund supports students who otherwise may not have the chance to take part in Italian studies at Edinburgh. Susanna is the fourth student to receive a scholarship.

The 22-year-old graduate of the University of Siena will collect her award at the Traverse Theatre on Saturday.