La Dolce Vita Courses: special courses conceived for adults offered by the Italian language School Leonardo da Vinci in Florence, Milan, Rome and Siena.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/29/2012 -- Like past years, even in 2012 it is possible to take part to the activities of La Dolce Vita - 50+, organized by the Leonardo da Vinci schools in Florence, Milan, Rome and Siena.

La Dolce Vita is thought for students of any nationality who wish to spend a holiday in Italy, also studying the language and enjoying a large range of cultural activities.

The programme is very good for single travellers as well; it is addressed to people in their 50's and more and, in general, to anyone who is demanding, curious and interested in Italian Language and Culture.

The participants can decide to attend the course for one or two weeks with a large choice in starting dates: in Florence on May 14th, September 03rd and October 15th; in Milan on May 05th, September 24th and December 10th; in Rome on March 19th, June 04th and September 17th; in Siena on April 30th, on June 18th and on October 01st.

The Italian language course takes place every morning from Mondays to Fridays, on all ability levels. In the afternoons, participants will enjoy exclusive activities and discover the culture, traditions, wines and typical foods, art and music relating to the area they've chosen.

In Florence the programme involves several art history guided visits, a typical dinner in a traditional restaurant and a half day excursion to wineries of the surrounding countryside. This will let students understand how the Chianti wine is produced. The participants will furthermore experience a tour of traditional Artisan workshops and will take part to a Florentine cooking class.

A typical 'Apericena' (rich buffet with typical snacks) will conclude the experience in a relaxing way.

In Rome the school organizes several tours and excursions to places of great historical and artistic value, like the Vatican museums, the Colosseum and much more. There will be a one day field trip to "Frascati's" wine yards and on Sundays the participants will visit the historical and picturesque market held in Porta Portese. A part of the programme is also dedicated to wine and food: a visit to local products' markets, a wine tasting along with a typical Roman dinner.

In Milan, activities focus largely on musical culture. Students will visit the La Scala Theatre Museum and Giuseppe Verdi's house. A classical music concert is also on schedule, together with a music lesson. In the weekends participants will spend a nice day by the sides of the Como Lake. Of course a tasty dinner in a typical restaurant is also organized.

In Siena, the programme will start with an introductive guided visit of the city, with an aperitivo in the beautiful Campo square. There will be guided visits to the Cathedral, the Town Hall and the fascinating historical fountains of the city centre. A half day relaxing excursion to thermal baths in the surrounding area is on schedule, along with a weekend excursion dedicated to the discovery of the beautiful southern countryside. Wine and cheese tastings, along with a dinner in a famous local restaurant are also organized.

La Dolce Vita is a unique opportunity to express a cultural passion, to get in touch with new people and to discover Florence's, Milan's, Rome's and Siena's beauty and peculiarity.

For more information about Italian courses for adults please visit the Scuola Leonardo da Vinci website: http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-senior-course.html.

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AIL organizes preparation courses for passing Italian language exams at the Italian language school Scuola Leonardo da Vinci.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/06/2012 -- Accademia Italiana di Lingua (AIL) is a professional association of schools, institutions and experts in the field of teaching Italian as a foreign language. The association guarantees its members high standards of education and represents a variety of institutions in Italy and abroad. Its main office is located in Florence, Italy.

The Accademia Italiana di Lingua issues the first certificate of modern Italian that effectively tests the language skills of the candidates. The exams in written and spoken Italian cover various ability levels and are scheduled four times a year in each of the centers of Scuola Leonardo da Vinci – Rome, Milan, Florence and Siena.

AIL offers a wide choice of examinations (respectively diplomas) reflecting the very different students' needs and skills. AIL certificates (Diploma di Lingua Italiana Firenze) include both basic exams for those beginning to learn Italian and advanced certificates for those who already have fluency. The AIL exams are internationally recognized by schools and institutions (such as Bildungsurlaub program, Germany) as proof of ability to use Italian. These certificates never expire and do not require to be renewed — they are an achievement for a lifetime.

All AIL exams are aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, an internationally recognized benchmark of language ability. The framework uses six levels to describe language ability from A1 to C2. Once passed one of our exams, there is a clear pathway ahead as your abilities and confidence improve. AIL tests are also based on real language skills, such as writing a complaint letter or understanding a radio announcement, which give confidence in using Italian in real situations.

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci offers five out of six general Italian language exams:

DELI (A2): by passing this Italian language examination, the candidate shows he/she's able to understand the main structures of the Italian language and read simple texts and communicate in elementary everyday situations.

DILI (B1): by passing this Italian language examination, the candidate shows that he/she's able to communicate, both orally and in writing, in all everyday situations, such as conversations concerning topics of everyday life. The candidate shows also to be able to take part in such conversations and to understand texts dealing with these topics, expressing also his/her own written opinion.

DILC (B1) Business: by passing this Italian language examination, the candidate is able to take an active part in everyday conversations, to understand articles of a general business content and to write about topics of a general business content. The AIL DILC - B1 Examination has been recognized by the UFFT (Swiss Federal Office for professional Education and Technology) as final Exam of Italian as second national language for all the professional and commercial schools of Helvetic Confederation.

DILI (B2): by passing this Italian language examination, the candidate shows to be able to interact, both in oral and written way, on common elaborate subjects that are familiar to the candidate. It is an upper-intermediate level, the ideal exam for students who wish to use Italian especially for study purposes (i.e. attending courses in an Italian university).

DALI (C1): by passing this examination, the candidate shows that his/her knowledge of Italian language enables him/her to express correctly, both in speaking and writing, with the complexity expected of everyday language skills. In addition, the candidate can understand and compose written texts.

DALC (C1) Business: by passing this exam, the candidate shows the ability to communicate in any situation requiring a strong knowledge of business Italian; correspondence, public relations, specialized literature, secretarial work, business meetings, etc.

DALI (C2): by passing this examination, the candidate shows that he/she understands with ease virtually everything heard or read in Italian. He/she can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. The candidate can express himself/herself spontaneously, fluently and precisely, with finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.

The Preparation Course for all levels of exams lasts four weeks and is held four times a year in all the Scuola Leonardo da Vinci centres - Rome, Florence, Siena and Milan.

The last day of each Preparation course is the actual exam. The total number of lessons during the four weeks is 120 (30 lessons per week). From Monday to Friday 4 lessons (Standard course) help candidates to improve their general knowledge of Italian language and 2 lessons are specially focused on mock examinations, exam drills and such. The Preparation Course for all levels with exam fee included costs 1,345 Euros.

Preparation course dates AIL Certificates in 2012:

05 Mar – 30 Mar
04 Jun – 29 Jun
03 Sep – 28 Sep
12 Nov – 07 Dec

Candidates who wish to take just the exam, can submit their applications 30 days before each exam date in the corresponding centre where they wish to be tested together with the examination fee which depends on the level:

DILI B2 - 105 euros
DALI C1 / DALC C1 - 125 euros
DALI C2 - 125 euros
DELI A2 - 85 euros
DILI B1 / DILC B1 - 105 euros.

The examinations are standardized and carried out according to the Examination Regulations of the Accademia Italiana di Lingua (AIL), on the basis of the tasks as developed by the AIL Expert Commission. The examinations are valued according to objective criteria with maximum scoring 100 points. A successfully-passed exam is considered when the candidate has achieved at least 60% of the total scoring:

100-90% = A (Excellent)

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An Italian language course could be a very original gift to give this Christmas. Special offers of Italian language courses are offered by the Italian language school Leonardo da Vinci.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 11/24/2011 -- Have you already thought about your Christmas Gifts this year?

For those who are looking for a special and original idea for Christmas gifts this year, giving a foreign language course as a gift could be a perfect solution.

And why not to learn Italian language in the beautiful and charming country of Italy, where culture, history and art mix together with striking natural landscapes and lively, cosmopolitan cities of fashion? This could be a very original idea for your Christmas gifts.

The Italian language School Leonardo da Vinci, an experienced and internationally-recognized school in teaching Italian to foreign students since 1977, suggests a very original, amusing and culturally interesting present: an Italian language course to give as a Christmas present to whomever you wish.

Leonardo d Vinci has schools located in some of the most beautiful cities in Italy: Rome, Florence, Siena and Milan, and those interested will have the chance to choose their favorite city for attending their Italian language courses.

Those interested in this offer just need to visit the official website of the School Leonardo da Vinci and choose between two different Italian language courses:

1) La Dolce Vita 50 + course:
an Italian language and culture course for 1 week plus 1 week accommodation in a single room (in a family with breakfast) for 550€ instead of 669€. Available in Florence, Milan, Rome and Siena.

2) 2 weeks Italian language course:
an Italian language standard course for 2 weeks plus 2 weeks accommodation in a single room (in a family with breakfast or shared apartment) for 595€ instead of 690€. Available in Florence, Milan, Rome and Siena.

They will have to choose the course and the city they prefer, and then the school will send them a personalized voucher - valid for the whole year 2012 - with the user's name and the name of the person who will receive the present. Obviously, the school offers the opportunity to buy a voucher for two people (more information on the website).

For those interested in giving an Italian language course in Italy as a Christmas gift, they just need to fill a simple form and the school staff will send them all the information about the Scuola Leonardo da Vinci's voucher for Christmas.

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The Intensive Group Course is a course of Scuola Leonardo da Vinci, Italian Language School in Milan, Florence and Rome made of 4 Standard Course lessons per day plus 2 extra lessons of group language course.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) --11/21/2011 -- Would you like to learn a new language or improving your language skills? Do you wish to immerse yourself in the Italian language for the purposes of speaking it fluently as quickly as possible?

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci Intensive Group Course is specifically designed for this purpose! If you want to improve Italian conversation skills, this is without doubt the program for you.

The Intensive Group Course is a course of Scuola Leonardo da Vinci, Italian Language School of Milan, Florence and Rome, consisting of 4 Standard Course lessons per day plus 2 extra lessons of group language course.

Students who are interested in the 2 extra intensive lessons are tested on the first day of class to evaluate their speaking and listening skills, and then divided in small groups, which are formed according to the language levels of the course participants: beginning, intermediate or advanced.

Small classes encourage all the students to take part actively in the lesson under the guidance of qualified teachers. Leonardo da Vinci School in Milan, Florence and Rome all have an informal, friendly but professional atmosphere and experienced teachers with whom students will talk, talk, and talk in Italian only.

Lessons are focused on conversation, developing discussion and presentation skills; improving students' terminology and teaching them how to express ideas more effectively. As a matter of fact, by actively speaking, students' vocabulary will improve in short amount of time, increasing also their comprehension skill and communication skills.

The main priority of The Intensive Group Course of Scuola Leonardo da Vinci, Italian Language School of Milan, Florence and Rome, is to improve practical conversation ability while providing fundamental sentence patterns and useful expressions for everyday life. This kind of Intensive Class emphasizes oral production thanks to communication activities, group discussions and debates on several themes selected each week.

Once in Italy, students will discover that being surrounded by the chosen language all day actually facilitates the learning process after class, so that communication in Italian with other people will be even easier.

All teachers of Scuola Leonardo da Vinci are qualified native Italian speakers and the wide variety of didactical teaching materials, such as course books, newspapers, Italian songs and Italian movies will always ensure interesting and entertaining lessons.

Moreover Scuola Leonardo da Vinci in Milan, Florence and Rome is able to arrange also a pick up service from/to the airport/station as well as lodging in shared apartments or in guest families. The helpful and friendly multi-lingual staff of Scuola Leonardo da Vinci assists the students during their stay.

Detailed information on Intensive Group Courses are available on the website Scuolaleonardo.com.

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La Dolce Vita is a course of Scuola Leonardo da Vinci, a high-quality Italian Language School, specifically designed for mature students of any age and aimed to let them learn Italian in a pleasant and relaxing environment while enjoying a wide variety of cultural activities.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/07/2011 -- Would you like to combine a relaxing holiday with learning a new language, or improving your language skills? Are you a senior student but you feel "young at heart"?

The most effective and exciting way to learn a language, or to improve your existing knowledge of it, is doubtless a study abroad program.

Italy is increasing popular also among mature students due to the appeal of the Italian lifestyle and the friendly and relaxed sounds of Italian language.

La Dolce Vita is an Italian language course designed for "young at heart" people and offered by Scuola Leonardo da Vinci, Italian Language School.

The course lasts 1 or 2 weeks and includes language lessons as well as full cultural immersion with a rich social program. While developing language skills, senior students will also enjoy unforgettable experiences through immersion in life, traditions, culture and customs of Italy.

The Italian language morning course program is structured in 4 lessons daily in small groups, which are formed based on the language levels of the course participants.

Italian language program la Dolce Vita is tailored to suit senior language students needs, improve language and conversational skills, and heighten the awareness and appreciation of the Italian culture. Language classes focus on grammar, conversation as well as cultural and social aspects of the host country.

What could be more enjoyable than learning Italian in a pleasant and warm atmosphere?

At Scuola Leonardo da Vinci, the study of the language is enriched by a series of cultural activities including excursions to the great museums, guided walks, dinners out, theatre, concert halls. Just to mention a few social activities: La Scala Theatre Museum tour, Casa Verdi the residence for retired musicians tour, Milan city walking tour, daytrip to other cities in Lombardy and Italy, eating out at typical Milanese restaurant and evening at the opera theatre and at classical music concerts.

The advantages of basing oneself at a good school, as opposed to going it alone, are many.

In addition, once there, senior students will discover that, when surrounded by the chosen language all day, learning process continues after class and communication in that language with other people will be more and more easy.

All the teachers of Scuola Leonardo da Vinci Milano are qualified Italian native speakers and the wide variety of didactical teaching materials, such as course books, newspapers, Italian songs and Italian movies will ensure always interesting lessons.

La Dolce Vita Italian language courses for senior students are offered by Scuola Leonardo da Vinci Milano in April, May and October. Next La Dolce Vita Senior program will start 2011, October 3rd.

Furthermore Scuola Leonardo da Vinci Milano can arrange also transportation from/to the airport as well as accommodation in shared apartments or in a guest family. A helpful multi-lingual staff of Scuola Leonardo da Vinci will assist Dolce Vita senior students during their stay.

The language school Scuola Leonardo da Vinci was founded in Milan, Italy in 2004. The school is located inside a student campus in the Navigli area, a meeting place for artists with numerous cafes and bars. Moreover Scuola Leonardo da Vinci is well connected to the city centre by subway, tram and bus.

All classrooms have air conditioning and the campus boasts a park, a bar and a canteen. The school is located in via Darwin 20, 20143 Milan (Italy).

Further information about Italian language courses are available on the school official website.

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La Dolce Vita Courses organized by the Italian language school Leonardo da Vinci in the most beautiful and charming Italian cities. The best way for learning Italian enjoying Italian lifestyle and culture.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) --05/17/2011 -- In response to the success of La Dolce Vita course, the Scuola Leonardo da Vinci, happy to meet the requests of its students, has offered the possibility to choose the duration of the course: one or two weeks in select periods.

La Dolce Vita, open to students of all ages, consists of morning lessons in Italian Language, and afternoon visits to museums, wine cellars, wine shops, and artisans' workshops.

Italian language classes are carried out in a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere with instructors who will guide students in the cultural aspects of Italy and encourage verbal expression in a fun friendly way.

During the afternoon and evenings you will explore the city on various excursions, allowing you to discover its treasures and attractions, and sample typical Italian specialties.

The ideal city for learning or improving the Italian language is Florence: Cradle of the Renaissance and one of the most important centers of literary culture, a "Study Holiday" in Florence is an unforgettable experience in one of the most celebrated cities of Italian Art. Siena, a small, relaxing and enchanting paradise.

Rome: words aren't capable of describing it. A metropolis saturated with art and history.

Milan isn't just fashion and design! An unforgettable stay, the study of another language and the discovery of the city via an excellent selection of destinations.

Further information about Italian language courses for adults are available on the school's website.

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Taking a break once in a lifetime and spending a sabbatical year in Italy for knowing everything about Italian language, traditions, habits and customs.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/22/2011 -- Do you have in mind to spend some of your educational time span or to take a sabbatical year to improve your knowledge of Italian Language end live a new experience in what is called the "Bel Paese"?

If this is your case, do take a chance and choose among one of the four locations that Scuola Leonardo da Vinci offers open in the most representative cities of Italy.

Our group of schools hosts students from all over the world and gives you a chance to choose among the most important location in Italy in terms of culture, fashion, arts and entertainment.

An over 30 years old experience in the field of Italian Language teaching and a world renown teaching method allows our students to spend a living experience in Italy - http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-long-term-courses.html#SabbaticalYear -supported by highly professional teaching stuff, long experienced teachers and a friendly an informal atmosphere.

Choosing our schools you will have a chance to attend and exchange your courses in our four schools, following the same teaching method.

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci in Florence is located in the town centre close to Piazza Duomo in an old palace. Florence combines the most precious art treasures, rich and ancient museums with lively and update trends. A big though moderate town, a combination of unforgettable atmospheres.

Siena is a dream town, a small paradise. Time does not run here and everything is as it was ever. Walking along its ancient streets, you feel you are back in the middle ages.

Rome: words are never enough to describe it. The experience here is unique. Jazz, culture, pop and the pulsing heart of a metropolis.

But next is the patrimony of art and ancient cultures embracing all centuries.

Milan is not only finance and economy, fashion and design, the capital of new trends. It is also the most representative example of Gothic style in Italy. Its way is lively and a little chaotic, but it offers plenty of opportunities of leisure and culture.

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci is located throughout Italy in beautiful and cosmopolitan cities.

Further information for spending a sabbatical year in Italy are available on the school's website: http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-long-term-courses.html#SabbaticalYear

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Spending a whole Academic School Year in Italy is the best way for learning Italian language and knowing more about Italian culture and traditions.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/09/2011 -- Studying a foreign language is a total experience, especially if the goal is to reach that level of proficiency when even the nuances and variations are mastered.

Everyone knows that to go that far, the pure linguistic element is not enough, it is essential to add cultural studies, which enrich the content of such an experience.

All this is true especially for a language like Italian, suspended between the past and present, where the difference between the official language (the one used in that nation's courts, parliament and administration) and local dialects has not disappeared even in highest levels of education and politics.

The LDV Academic year in Italy (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/gap-year-in-italy.php)

The course designed by Scuola Leonardo da Vinci, to guide the student to such an ambitious goal is the Academic Year Course in Italy, where the study of language goes hand by hand with the improvement of cultural knowledge, issues related to elements of the Italian culture such as Art History, Cinema, Theatre, Fashion, Food, Literature, Politics and Society.

Academic Year - First Semester

The course is divided in three semesters so that allows a phased approach to the objective. The first one (12 weeks) focuses exclusively on the linguistic part. The school equips the student, no matter of the initial level of Italian knowledge, with the language skills necessary to understand the cultural program that will start during the second semester. The verification of Italian linguistic knowledge has been entrusted to the examination AIL (intermediate level B1 or B2), scheduled at the end of the first session.

Academic Year - Second Semester

The second part (12 weeks) is where the school continues the linguistic preparation and start upgrading the vocabulary with cultural knowledge. Cultural subjects such as Arts, Cinema, Fashion and Food are inserted in order to expand the experience and to help the student to arrive at level of advanced knowledge of Italian. To control and prove the progress of Italian language skill there is a second exam AIL (advanced level C1 or C2).

Academic Year - Third Semester

The third session (8 weeks) is finally devoted exclusively to cultural aspects. Only at this point, the school adds subjects such as Literature, Theatre, Politics and Society, knowing it will be linguistic adventure for the student.

Students' final challenge will be an essay written in Italian to be discussed at the end of the program. While preparing the article in the last three weeks of the Academic year in Italy, the student is assisted to a tutor. This last task will reveal not only the language skills gained but will allow the students to express, develop and set their ideas and concepts.

Academic year in Italy - Outcomes

It 's easy to deduce from above that this is an experience of high level, which can enrich the Curriculum Vitae even of a very sophisticated student or of those who are aiming at making a career or developing academic background in Italy.

Academic year in numbers

Duration: 32 weeks
Total language lessons: 480
Total lessons for preparation of exams: 80
Total cultural lessons: 80
Recommended level to enroll: from beginner (A1) until intermediate (B1)

Certificates: Florence AIL intermediate, Florence AIL advanced, Certificate "Academic year".

More information at: http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/gap-year-in-italy.php

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Preparation Courses for Italian University, especially for the faculties of Medicine and Architecture.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/29/2010 -- In the age of globalization a study abroad experience is more than ever a great crucial turning point for young students. Indeed such an experience has almost become a must for the CV of an young adult starting a job career.

Studying the subject of your choice in a foreign country means to build up your future while you learn a different language and, more important, you start to merge into a different culture. To know how to cope with cultural differences is certainly an advantage in a fast constantly changing world. Besides, in order to succeed you need to learn how to overcome serious obstacles.

In fact, it is not at all easy for a foreign student to enrol in a prestigious Italian faculty, such as Medicine and Architecture. Obviously the first issue to be faced is the language. Our experience shows a future successful student needs to have reached at the beginning of his/her university course a level of Italian knowledge equivalent to C1 of the European Framework.

The second challenge is the entry test. The exam is normally scheduled during the first week of September. Its purposes are to test three areas of knowledge: logical skills; technical subjects; Italian language and culture.

The Italian University Preparation Courses (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-professional-courses.html#CoursesForItalianUniversities) offered by Scuola Leonardo da Vinci are exclusively design to help and guide the students through the entire process. There are two main modules. The first is focused on Italian language and culture and places the foundations for the second module, scientific subject and exam training.

Module I) Italian Language and Culture - An intensive course, i.e. 3 hours/day, 5 days a week (Monday through Friday). The advised length of the module depends on the level of Italian knowledge the student has. The number of weeks/hours and the 2011 starting dates that we suggest are as follows:

Absolute Beginner
Starting date: 17 Jan
Weeks: 24
Hours: 360

Beginner
Starting date: 14 Feb
Weeks: 20
Hours: 300

Elementary
Starting date: 14 Mar
Weeks: 16
Hours: 240

Intermediate
Starting date: 11 Apr
Weeks: 12
Hours: 180

Upper Intermediate
Starting date: 9 May
Weeks: 8
Hours: 120

Advanced
Starting date: 6 Jun
Weeks: 4
Hours: 60

While successfully following the program students gradually develop all the language skill needed (speaking, listening, reading, writing) and also both in class and outside improve their knowledge of every day Italian life and habits. The didactical approach used also helps to acquire higher level of general Italian cultural (politics, economy, entertainment, history, traditions and so on).

Module II) Scientific Subjects and Exam Training - Four weeks full immersion course (120 hours). The starting date for 2011 is 4 July. Our advice is that only a student proficient in Italian language (C1/C2 of the European framework) should enrol directly in this module. Three targets. First, to review the scientific part already studied in high school in the country of origin. All professors are experts in the following fields at university level:

Faculty of Medicine in Italy:
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Maths

Faculty of Architecture in Italy:
Technical Drawing
History of Art
Physics
Maths

Second target, to set wide plethora of information about Italian Culture. Third, to be trained for the entry test through simulation sessions using exams from previous years.

Further information about Italian Preparation Courses for Medicine (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-medical-studies.html) and Preparation Courses for Architecture (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-architectural-studies.html) are available on the school's website.

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An Academic School Year in Italy: how to spend a whole year in Italy learning Italian language and making new friends, with Scuola Leonardo da Vinci, a high-qualified Italian language school for foreign students.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/15/2010 -- Learning foreign languages is strongly requested by young people, looking for most adequate qualifications to enter in today's extremely competitive work world.

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/gap-year-in-italy.php), located in Florence, Rome, Milan and Siena, the most beautiful Italian art and business cities, offers individual and group language courses on all levels, but also courses in Painting, Fashion, Cooking, Wine, Art History and Design.

The Academic long-term Course is particularly tailored for students looking for a full plunging into the Italian language and culture.

The course, lasting 32 weeks, is not simply a language course, but includes lessons on Italian film, Literature, Art History, Fashion and Drama.

In addition, the program enables participants to reach the adequate preparation to obtain internationally recognized qualifications such as the AIL (Italian Academy of Language) certificates and diplomas.

Teachers and staff are highly qualified and contribute to make this course the most prestigious and attractive one for who wants to make experiences away from home, discover a new world and learn new things.

What does it really mean to live 8 months in a foreign country? It means to learn perfectly the language, travel throughout the land, know its culture, visit most museums and monuments, but also to make friends, taste all dishes and wines, learn how people live, assimilate their habits.

A gap year in Italy is an unforgettable experience that is going to enrich and change your way of thinking.

Further information about the Academic School Year in Italy (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/gap-year-in-italy.php) are available on the official website of the school.

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The Italian language School Leonardo da Vinci once again offers its preparatory courses for the Italian language exams of the AIL, in order to get an Italian language diploma.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/16/2010 -- On August 23rd, the Scuola Leonardo da Vinci centers will start the preparatory courses for every level of examination of the Italian Language Academy (AIL).

The Scuola Leonardo da Vinci is present in four Italian cities: Florence, Rome, Siena and Milan, the most beautiful Italian cities, rich in monuments and architectural masterpieces.

The long experience and professionalism of teachers and staff make the Scuola Leonardo da Vinci one of the most prestigious Italian language schools in Italy.

Italian language courses are offered at all levels, individual and group courses, but also painting, drawing, sculpture, restoration, cooking, wine, art history and fashion.

The Scuola Leonardo da Vinci centers are also authorized AIL examination centers and the next session will take place on September, 17th.

The Italian Academy of Language (AIL) is an association of schools, institutions and experts, in the field of teaching Italian to foreigners and certification. AIL central office is in Florence.

The AIL has created multi-level exams to certify the actual knowledge of candidates. To obtain the Diploma of Italian Language for all levels is necessary to pass an exam consisting of five parts, with tests in Listening, Reading Comprehension, Analysis of Structures of Communication, Writing and Speaking.

These examinations are held two or four times a year, on the same day at the various authorized examination centers worldwide. Texts are unique and corrections and final evaluations are held in Florence, to guarantee uniformity of evaluation.

These certificates can be useful to anyone wishing to find a job where Italian as a foreign language is requested, to those who want to have their competence certified only for personal satisfaction or to those who simply wish to enrich their Curriculum Vitae.

Further information are available on the Italian language school Leonardo da Vinci's website.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

A course conceived for all the people who wish discover all the secrets of Italian wines. Wine Courses held in Italy.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/08/2010 -- Talking about Italy, we cannot forget mentioning its wines. Wine is part of Italian history, tradition and culture. A passion born many decades ago, an emotion coming from the heart and deeply related with food.

But often you happen to drink a wine without knowing if it's really good or where it comes from, or you find it difficult to read the label or combine it with good food.

You cannot just drink wine, you have to "taste it". A professional taster is able to recognize if a wine is genuine, to correctly evaluate its appearance, aroma, color, to appreciate the good feelings that wine transmits to eyes, nose and palate.

To help students to taste wines and learn a lot about this wonderful world, the school for foreigners Leonardo da Vinci, in addition to traditional Italian language courses, offers Wine Courses too. The school is present in four of the most beautiful Italian cities: Florence, Milan, Rome and Siena.

Cities rich in history, churches and monuments, but also places offering attractions and fun for students of all ages and with different interests. During the Italian Wines Course (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-cultural-courses.html#Italian_Wines) that the School Leonardo da Vinci organizes for its students, 24 famous wines will be presented and tasted.

Students will have the opportunity to learn about their history and origin, appreciate the taste nuances and recognize the differences between a Chianti and a Brunello di Montalcino, a Barolo and a Barbaresco.

To have a good knowledge of wines means to have expertise and fun! Once a famous sommelier and wine merchant said: "Just raise a glass, make a toast and taste the wine with gusto and wisdom, as wine is particularly good for who knows to drink it."

Starting dates of Italian Wines Courses: every week (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-cultural-courses.html#Italian_Wines).

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The Italian language School Leonardo da Vinci presents its offer for Summer 2010: Italian Language Summer Courses in Italy. Discovering Italian language, culture and art in Florence, Rome, Milan or Siena.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/07/2010 -- Scuola Leonardo da Vinci is located in four of the most beautiful Italian towns: Florence, Rome, Milan and Siena. Teachers and staff are professional and long experienced, the organization well geared to meet all the needs and expectations of students of any nationality.

Therefore, the Leonardo schools are recognized among the most prestigious in Italy. They offer not only group or individual language courses at any level, but also courses of painting, fashion, cooking, wine tasting and history of art.

Speaking foreign languages is nowadays absolutely necessary both in the educational and in the professional world. But in order to certify the proficiency students reached, they need to pass an exam and get an everywhere recognized Diploma.

It gives an objective evaluation of their skills and an added value to their curriculum vitae. The school collaborates with the Accademia Italiana di Lingua (AIL), a cultural association that issues Diplomas of Italian Language on different levels. Students can attend a preparation course at the school and sit the exam in the end directly in Scuola Leonardo da Vinci institute.

On May 31st and August 23rd, the Preparation Courses for the exams of Accademia Italiana di Lingua (AIL) will start, whereas the exams will take place on June 25th and September 17th.

The Ail exams are an important aim for students of Italian language. Every linguistic skill is thoroughly evaluated through tasks and exercises set to test the student's ability to use the language in various communicative situations: listening, writing, speaking, reading.

The city of Florence is an open air museum. Walking through the center and visiting churches and museums, it is possible to take a full immersion course of History of Art.

All Scuola Leonardo da Vinci ex-students will surely remember the unforgettable History of Art teacher Monica Gentili. She set up a special course for Summer time: a four week itinerary through the most famous masterpieces of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture, from Giotto to Rubens, from Gothic to Baroque. Participants will have the chance to discover, admire and live the aesthetics of the biggest Italian artists, traveling through the ancient Florence.

Art courses (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-cultural-courses.html#history_of_Italian_Art) run every month by Scuola Leonardo da Vinci are focused just on one period or a few artists. This course instead will give students the opportunity to experience the roots of Western Art and Civilization and its evolution in just a month.

The Course of Italian Literature (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-special-courses/Italian-literature.html)is structured in lessons and is taking place in 2 weeks. The course's aim is to bring students closer to the contemporary literature, by reading, analyzing and commenting the most significant authors of the late 20th century Italian fiction.

The course starts with a historical introduction, essential to enter the social, political and intellectual climate of the years when the selected writers wrote their works. Students are in contact with authentic and not simplified texts, to be analyzed either on a linguistic level or on a literary one. The course plans to read classical texts by Buzzati, Calvino, Ginzburg, Moravia, Sciascia and others by newer authors as Eco, Baricco, Camilleri and Ammaniti.

In addition, the Italian language School Leonardo da Vinci every summer organizes special Junior Summer Camps (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/junior-summer-camp.html) in Italy, conceived for children and teens who wish to spend some holiday in the pursuit of nature and fun, learning a new foreign language.

Further information about the Italian Summer Courses (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/summer-italian-language-courses.html) are available on the school's website.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

History of art courses offered by Scuola Leonardo da Vinci in Rome, Italian language school for foreign students who wish to learn something about Italian culture.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/03/2010 -- Rome is the only and true Eternal City with its 28 centuries of history still visible in the unique complex of masterpieces that have survived the passage of centuries.

A place where each new civilization overlapped the old one, a multilayered open air museum where visitors can see a medieval church next to imperial roman ruins and with Renaissance and Baroque art masterpieces decorating its inside.

A city whose urban richness has been shaped by emperors and popes but where art experiments are still alive as shown by the architects Renzo Piano and Richard Meier, the contemporary heirs of artists such as Giotto, Raphael, Michelangelo, Bernini, Borromini and Caravaggio. To let students appreciate such complexity and beauty at its best while learning Italian language is the aim of the History of Art in Rome Course (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/italian-cultural-courses/history-italian-art.html#rome).

The History of Art in Rome course (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/italian-cultural-courses/history-italian-art.html#rome) consists of an introductory classroom session followed by three on-site guided tours. The syllabus is constructed as a series of interlocking journeys of discovery. During the first session a combination of texts, slides, illustrations and maps will introduce students to the art history of Rome and its development through time, from Republican Rome to the contemporary world. As for the on site visits, students can choose three tours among the following:

Rome from its beginnings to the Empire. The focus is on major monuments of classical antiquity with hints to both the political and cultural evolution of Rome from the period of the Republic to that of the Empire: the Roman Forum; the Palatine; the Imperial Forums; the Coliseum; the Capitol.

Early Christian and Medieval Rome (4th – 13th centuries). We explore the churches and convents which gave visual form to Christian spirituality in their architecture, mosaics, frescoes and altarpieces by such masters as Cavallini: Basilica di San Clemente; Basilica dei Santi Quattro Coronati; Santa Sabina; Santa Maria in Cosmedin and la "Bocca della verita"; Basilica Santa Cecilia; Santa Maria in Trastevere.

Renaissance Rome (15th-16th centuries). We experience the world-renowned masterpieces of Michelangelo, Raphael and Bramante in churches and palaces such as the Vatican basilica and Villa Farnesina, as well as innovative urban spaces like the Capitoline piazza and the Via Giulia.

Baroque Rome (17th-18th centuries). Here our topic is the triumph of fantasy which enriches the fountains, palaces and churches of Bernini and Borromini and their successors, with particular emphasis on the areas of Piazza Navona, Piazza Quirinale and the Spanish Steps. Not forgetting Caravaggio's masterpiecews churches as San Luigi dei Francesi, Sant'Agostino and Santa Maria del Popolo.

Rome the Capital (1870) and Fascist Rome: We investigate the period in which Rome was transformed into a modern capital by the Savoy monarchy, which commissioned wide avenues and enclosed piazzas. Later, with Mussolini, Rome regained its central role as the symbol of classical culture, as seen in the EUR quarter and the Italico Forum.

Further information about the art history courses in Rome (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/italian-cultural-courses/history-italian-art.html#rome) are available on the school's website.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

La Dolce Vita Courses in Siena, Tuscany. Italian language courses conceived for adults who wish to learn Italian language while spending a holiday in Tuscany and discovering Italian culture and food.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/06/2010 -- Would you like to sip wine, learn some history, eat traditional Tuscan foods and live in a perfectly preserved medieval town - while learning Italian language?

Then Scuola Leonardo da Vinci in Siena (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-school-Siena.html) has the perfect opportunity for you! Welcome to La Dolce Vita (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-senior-course.html), a week-long course that includes Italian language lessons in the morning and an inviting variety of cultural activities every afternoon.

Here is your week: every morning Monday through Friday you will be in the classroom, speaking Italian from the very first lesson. Monday afternoon you will have a guided tour of Siena's beautiful, historic city centre.

On Tuesday you will enjoy a half-day excursion to the Chianti area with its gorgeous landscape, picturesque villages and famous vineyards. On Wednesday you will learn all about classic Tuscan wine from an expert sommelier (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-senior-course.html).

Tasting included! Thursday afternoon you will have a guided visit to Siena's majestic Duomo or art-filled 14th century Town Hall and on Friday you will be able to practice your Italian at a traditional Tuscan dinner in one of Siena's historic, first-class restaurants (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-school-Siena.html).

This course is ideal for anyone who has only a week of free time and would like to immerse themselves in the Italian language and culture.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The Italian language School Leonardo da Vinci created Junior Summer Camps for children and teens, a multicultural experience for learning a foreign language and having fun with new friends.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/27/2010 -- Summer is getting near and with it also a long vacation for all school kids.

The summer break is a perfect time for the family to stay together enjoining their free time but, in most cases, parents must work and they have to plan on time how their kids will spend the vacation.

One of the possible solutions could be to participate in one of many Junior Summer Camps (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/junior-summer-camp.html) that are organized all over the world and are usually a safe and interesting way for kids to meet different cultures and spread their views.

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci, with 30 years of active experience in organizing Italian language and culture courses for students coming for all around the globe, will offer a new Junior Summer Camp program, perfectly designed for teenage students of every nationality. The multicultural camp of Scuola Leonardo da Vinci is held in a quite and charming village of La Polsa, surrounded by beautiful Dolomiti mountains.

The International Summer Camp (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/junior-summer-camp.html) is based on a two-week program, and perfectly suits the needs of young students wishing to experience a full immersion in a new language and to spend an unforgettable holiday where they will learn not only to communicate, but also to be part of today's international world. All this in a healthy, funny and positive way, building up confidence, self-esteem and new friendship relationships that will last forever.

Students can choose to learn English or Italian language with 20 lessons per week and after the morning lessons they will enjoy sport activities in the afternoon and amazing social programs in the evening. Professional teachers and group-leaders will assist them during the day and will take care of their progress and safety.

There will be available three program sessions, each one two weeks long:

1st session 27th June - 10th July
2nd session 11th July - 24th July
3rd session 18th July - 31st July

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci Junior Summer Camps (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/junior-summer-camp.html) is open to students from 12 to 17 years old.

For further information and program detailed program view, visit the Scuola Leonardo da Vinci web site or write to milan@scuolaleonardo.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Spring time: the best season for learning Italian language in Italy. Italian Language and Culture Courses offered by the Italian language School Leonardo da Vinci.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/19/2010 -- Scuola Leonardo da Vinci is located in four of the most beautiful Italian towns: Florence, Rome, Milan and Siena. Teachers and staff are professional and long experienced, and the organization is well geared to meet all the needs and expectations of students of any nationality.

It is for this reason that Leonardo da Vinci is recognized as one the most prestigious schools in Italy. It offers not only group or individual language courses at any level, but also courses of painting, fashion, cooking, wine tasting and history of art.

Spring is a wonderful season to spend some time in Italy: winter is over, the weather is warm but not sultry, the art towns like Florence and Rome not yet crowded by tourists. The Leonardo da Vinci schools set up special Spring courses, "Corsi di primavera", just to boost students to meet these interesting proposals and take advantage of this extraordinary period of the year.

The Preparation Courses for the exams of Accademia Italiana di Lingua (AIL) will start on May 31st, whereas the exams will take place on June 25th. In order to certify the proficiency reached in Italian, students need to pass an exam and get an everywhere recognized Diploma. It gives an objective evaluation on their skills and an added value to their curriculum vitae.

Leonardo da Vinci School cooperates with the Accademia Italiana di Lingua (AIL), a cultural association that issues Diplomas of Italian Language on different levels (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-exam-courses.html). Students can attend a preparation course at Scuola Leonardo da Vinci and sit the exam in the end directly in the school institutes. The Ail exams are an important aim for students of Italian. Every linguistic skills is thoroughly evaluated through tasks and exercises set to test the student's ability to use the language in different communicative situations: listening, writing, speaking, reading.

Who loves reading Italian authors will find attractive the Italian Literature Course (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-special-courses/Italian-literature.html), starting on April 12th. It is structured in 16 lessons and lasts 2 weeks. The course's aim is to bring students closer to the contemporary literature, by reading, analyzing and commenting the most significant authors of the late 20th century Italian fiction.

The course starts with an historical introduction, essential to enter the social, political and intellectual climate of the years when the selected writers wrote their works. Students are in contact with authentic and not simplified texts, to be analyzed either on a linguistic level or on a literary one. The course plans to read classical texts by Buzzati, Calvino, Ginzburg, Moravia, Sciascia and others by younger authors as Eco, Baricco, Camilleri, Ammaniti.

The course we called "Dolce Vita" (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-general-courses.html#senior) starts on May 17th. It is an interesting proposal for mature students that the Leonardo schools set up in order to offer a culturally rich but relaxing stay in Italy. It is a course for adults of any age and lasts 1 week. In the morning students will attend a language course, in the afternoon they will take part to many leisure activities: visits to museums, churches, handcraft labs, wineries, etc.

For students who wish to spend a whole year in Florence, the Academic School Year Course (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/gap-year-in-italy.php) is starting on May 3rd. It is not a simple language course, but a full immersion in Italian culture. It includes Language courses, Cinema, Literature, History of Art, Drama and Fashion. It will end on December 10th.

Whoever dreams of working in a big fashion company, in a "maison" like Prada or Gucci, has absolutely to come to Italy where everything tells of fashion and attend one of the prestigious fashion academies like Polimoda, Naba, Politecnico di Design etc. But firstly, it is necessary to learn Italian language and become absorbed in the Italian culture.

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci in Florence and Milan offers a specific preparatory course that will help students to follow the Fashion Courses (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-art-and-fashion-courses.html), starting on April 26th in Florence, and pass the admission exams where they are needed.

Florence, Milan, Siena and Rome are open air museums and round every corner students will run into art and history, wonderful churches and enchanting museums. The Leonardo schools have been offering for a long time high quality History of Art Courses (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/italian-cultural-courses/history-italian-art.html), meant to help students discover and love masterpieces in painting, sculpture and architecture by the most famous Italian artists from the Middle Age to the Baroque.

Of course, most of the courses are held outside the school (field trips) so that students can see live all the works they are studying. As suggested by many students, we opened up a new opportunity for those who don't want to attend a too demanding course schedule: students can enroll in only one or two lessons, instead of the complete course plan of 12 lessons in 2 weeks.

Further information are available on the school's website http://www.scuolaleonardo.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Why choosing the beautiful medieval city of Siena for a learning holiday in Italy and studying Italian language at Scuola Leonardo da Vinci, Italian language school for foreign students.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/05/2010 -- For all students and lovers of the Italian language: are you looking for the ideal place to study one of the world's most beautiful languages?

Welcome to the Leonardo da Vinci Italian language school in Siena (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-school-Siena.html), one of the jewels of Tuscany, the very cradle of the Italian spoken and written word.

Siena combines all the neighborliness of small-town life with the attractions of a world-renowned cultural center and the educational and social resources of a campus environment.

Within its ancient walls and astonishingly well preserved medieval architecture, Siena will greet you with a plentiful variety of museums, bookstores, cafes, restaurants and shops featuring exquisite handcrafted goods.

Because Siena is a family town that houses one of the most important universities in Italy, students of all ages will find the pace of life leisurely yet rewardingly enhanced by a wealth of activities and many opportunities to exercise their new language skills (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-courses-Siena.html).

As a student at the Scuola Leonardo da Vinci, you might study Italian in the morning then spend your afternoon at a wine tasting, or on a guided tour of a cultural site, at a lecture learning about one of Siena's fascinating historic traditions, or simply sitting in the beautiful Piazza del Campo with an aperitif.

In the evenings you might attend a concert given by participants of Siena's world-class music academy or try one of the local pubs or restaurants featuring hearty Sienese and Tuscan cuisine.

Weekends (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/activities-school-Siena.html) are for exploring the town's winding streets, art-filled churches, and picturesque squares or for excursions around the region. Florence, Arezzo, San Gimignano, and Volterra, are just a few of the culturally rich cities that are but a bus ride away.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/02/2010 -- The renowned Italian language School Leonardo da Vinci, located in Florence, Rome, Milan and Siena, created an original and interactive Video showing the typical first day of a foreign student in Florence, Italy. Impressions, feelings, expectations. What is going to happen?

"You have booked your Italian language course in Italy, you have planned your travel and finally...you arrived! It's your first day in Florence and your adventure is just at the beginning...".

This is the starting point of an amazing video (http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=13E5C0238E287099) made by Scuola Leonardo da Vinci (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/), an Italian language school with 4 centers located in Florence, Milan, Rome and Siena.

The mini movie, entirely shot in first person, is divided into 5 parts and represents a sort of game, so that you can choose two different developments. Try all combinations and see how a day could change!

The movie wants to show how the first day of an Italian language student who arrives in the country of her dreams and doesn't know what to expect could be: she has to be able to find the school at first... and this could conceal a surprise....then she will meet new friends and - who knows? - maybe receive some invitation to go out.

By the way, she's in Italy to learn Italian, so you will see her first day at school and taste for a while an interesting Italian language lesson.

And don't forget to take a look to the wonderful city she chose to study in: Florence!
And remember, as you can read in the description of the last episode: "It's only the beginning... ". Where to see this amusing and enjoyable video? On YouTube, at the address: http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=13E5C0238E287099.

For further information about Scuola Leonardo da Vinci, you can also see the YouTube channel Italian in Italy (http://www.youtube.com/user/italianinitaly) or the school's official website http://www.scuolaleonardo.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Italian Cuisine – Italian Cookery Courses created by the Italian language School Leonardo da Vinci in all the school locations: Milan, Florence, Rome and Siena. Learning and Tasting Italian Cooking.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/18/2010 -- Where do recipes come from? Do you want to unfold the secrets of Italian cookery?

If we close our eyes and try to imagine Italy, many famous features of this country come to our minds: history, top art making and rich museums, architectural beauties, a gorgeous climate, fashion, people's warmth and a delicious cooking.

Italy is famous as a country of one hundred towns, several churches, and numerous cookeries.

What about the worldwide known Tiramisu? A cake loved by Italians and foreigners, where the strong taste of coffee, the softness of the mascarpone cheese and the fragrance of the cookies meet and create one of the most famous cake you can ever taste…and most exquisite too!

It is true that eating is the first need for a human being, but "you do not live only on bread", as the famous Italian proverb says. Food is a pleasure too. Eating what we like can help us to be in good spirits and feel satisfied and relaxed. Cooking, watching, smelling and tasting good food not only introduce us into a world of emotions, but it is also a way to get to know better the Italian culture.

As Scuola Leonardo da Vinci (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/) is convinced that food culture is an important part of an Italian experience, it has been offering for many years Italian Cooking Courses (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-cultural-courses.html#Italian_Cooking) at various levels in all its seats, Florence, Rome, Milan and Siena.

Who loves cooking and tasting the most secret flavors of the Italian Cookery, has to attend the group lessons with a chef's guidance. Typical Italian recipes (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-cultural-courses.html#Italian_Cooking) are prepared, traditions rediscovered and homemade pasta kneaded. Appetizers, courses, ice creams, cakes and so on, everything will be eaten up at the end of the lesson!

Professional courses are available on request only in Florence, from basic to refined techniques. Check the school website http://www.scuolaleonardo.com for further information.

A curiosity about the Tiramisu: its fame has no borders, everywhere in the world is appreciated and you can find it on the menus of the most important restaurants. But who invented it?

Many legends were born, due to its alleged aphrodisiac virtues. Its origins are not certainly known, but it is officially believed that it firstly appeared in Tuscany in the 17th century, prepared in honor of the Grand Duke of Tuscany Cosimo de' Medici, a famous glutton for sweets and cakes.

The pastry cooks wanted to prepare a cake reflecting the Grand Duke's personality: tasty but not too complicated, something great with simple ingredients. And so the Tiramisu was born. Its original name was "soup of the duke", in honor of Cosimo de' Medici.

The cake quickly became the courtiers' favorite one just because it was told to have aphrodisiac properties. And that's why the "soup of the duke" changed name and took on the allusive one of "tiramisu" (turn me on!).

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

“Italian plus Art & Design Courses” in Milan, conceived in order to give students the chance to learn Italian language and deepen their art studies.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/17/2010 -- Scuola Leonardo Da Vinci (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/) is one of the leading schools in Italy recognized for its excellence in teaching Italian to foreign students. The Italian language school has a large variety of courses to choose from in its efforts to meet the individual goals and desires of all of prospective students.

Every year the school has thousands of individuals who come to learn Italian with the future plans of either entering the fashion world or some who just wish to broaden their horizons in Art and Fashion all together. So, the Italian language school created a special course called "Italian Plus Art & Design" (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-art-and-fashion-courses.html#Italian-plus-art-fashion), to give both types of students the experience that they're looking for.

This course is for anyone who wishes to learn Italian, deepen their art studies, and have fun learning at the prestigious NABA: Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti di Milano (New Academy of Fine Arts of Milan).

The Italian Plus Art & Design Course is divided into 2 parts. The first part of the program is concentrated on giving students Italian language preparation and the second is focused on introducing a variety of art and design subjects.

The Italian language preparation can last from 4 to 24 weeks so students can build a good working knowledge of Italian in order for them to be able to comfortably follow and understand the university level lessons that will be given at the NABA academy.

The second part of the program will last for 12 to 14 weeks, which is considered one semester. During this time students will attend lessons at NABA academy by choosing subjects from one of the following areas: Visual Arts (Painting, Sculpture, Photography), Fashion Design, Graphic Design and Art Direction, Design (Interior, Exhibition, Product…).

Students of the past have really enjoyed this course because it combined the dynamics of Italian language, art and design all together, giving them a truly authentic Italian learning experience.

Next session of the Italian Language Course "Italian Plus Art & Design" (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-art-and-fashion-courses.html#Italian-plus-art-fashion) Semester Courses for beginners will start on April 19th 2010.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Preparation Courses for teaching students Italian language and helping them enter one of the prestigious Italian Fashion & Design Academies.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/15/2010 -- Do you want to become a famous stylist like Armani or Dolce and Gabbana?

If so, you have absolutely to come to Italy where everything tells you of fashion and attend one of the prestigious fashion academies like Polimoda, Naba, Politecnico di Design etc. But first you'd better learn Italian language and become absorbed in the Italian culture.

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-art-and-fashion-courses.html#courses-fashion-design-academies) in Florence and Milan offers a specific preparatory course that will help you follow the fashion courses and pass the admission exams where they are requested.

This course lasts 4 weeks and includes lessons of:

- Fashion Vocabulary, in order to memorize all the words you will need in the fashion world;
- History of Fashion and Design;
- Fashion Advertisement, just to study whom a fashion product is aiming at;
- Fashion in the Movie;
- Fashion Events.

Moreover, you will visit Fashion Museums in order to understand how Fashion and Design developed through the years and where it is coming from.

As an advanced level of Italian Language (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-art-and-fashion-courses.html#courses-fashion-design-academies) is needed, first you must take a Course of Italian Language, from a minimum of 4 weeks to a maximum of 24, if you are an absolute beginner.

If you have some knowledge of Italian and you want to know how many weeks of Italian Language Course you need, please fill in the test you will find on our school website: http://www.scuolaleonardo.com, clicking on "Corsi di Preparazione per Accademie di Moda e Design", and e-mail it to florence@scuolaleonardo.com or to milan@scuolaleonardo.com. We will e-mail you back our evaluation and a proposal about how many weeks of Italian Language Course you have to follow.

You can start the specific Course for Fashion and Design Academies (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-art-and-fashion-courses.html#courses-fashion-design-academies) on two different dates: 5th July or 2nd August.

If you are an absolute beginner and you need a complete Italian Language Course of 24 weeks, you can start the Italian Language Course on two different sessions as well: 18th January or 15th February.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Full information about the Italian Language Courses to support foreign students to pass the exam for getting the AIL Italian Language Certifications.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/12/2010 -- Scuola Leonardo da Vinci (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/index.html) is proud to announce the opening of the preparation course for the winter session of Accademia Italiana di Lingua (AIL) exams on March 1st.

The Italian language school Leonardo da Vinci is a founder member of AIL, the professional association of schools, institutions and experts in the field of teaching Italian as a foreign language (http://www.acad.it).

The AIL exams (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-exam-courses.html) will take place in all Leonardo da Vinci schools (Florence, Milan, Siena, Rome) on March 26th.

The AIL suite of exams has a wide choice of diplomas reflecting the very different needs and abilities of students. The AIL certificates (Diploma di Lingua Italiana Firenze) cover basic exams for those beginning to learn Italian, through to advanced certificates for those who have attained a high level of fluency. The AIL exams are internationally recognized by schools and institutions (such as Bildungsurlaub program) as proof of ability to use Italian. These certificates never expire, and will not need to be renewed — they are an achievement for life.

All AIL exams are aligned to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, an internationally recognized benchmark of language ability. The framework uses six levels to describe language ability from A1 to C2. Once you have passed one of our exams, there is a clear pathway ahead for you as your abilities and confidence improve. AIL tests are also based around real language skills, such as writing a letter or understanding an announcement, which will give you confidence to use Italian in real situations.

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci offers all five/six general Italian language exams: DELI (A2) recognizes the ability to deal with everyday written and spoken Italian at a basic level. DILI (B1) is dedicated to students who can use everyday written and spoken Italian at an intermediate level. DILI (B2), that is upper-intermediate level, is an ideal exam for students who want to use Italian especially for study purposes (i.e. attending courses in an Italian university).

DALI (C1), for advanced users of Italian, and DALI (C2), for students at proficiency level, are aimed at someone who can use written and spoken English for most professional and social purposes. Both DALI C1 and C2 are widely recognized for work or study purposes. Scuola Leonardo da Vinci also offers two different levels of professional exams, intermediate (DILC) and advanced (DALC), aimed at people who needs to speak and write Italian in a business environment.

The preparation course for all levels of exams will last 4 weeks from 1st March to March 26th. The total number of lessons is 120 (30 lessons per week). Four lessons a day Monday through Friday (Standard Course) to improve the students' general knowledge of Italian language plus 2 lessons a day focused on mock examinations, exam drills and such.

Further information about the AIL Italian language Certification (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-exam-courses.html) are available on http://www.scuolaleonardo.com.

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Qualified Preparatory Courses to Italian Universities offered by the Italian language school Leonardo da Vinci, in Rome and Milan.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/25/2010 -- If it is, you will need to learn Italian (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-professional-courses.html#CoursesForItalianUniversities) or else it will be very hard for you to pursue your field of study. If you want to specialize in Medicine or Architecture, all Italian universities require you to take and pass an entrance exam. This is an exam that you can easily face if you have a knowledge of both the Italian language and the technical terms that apply to your area of study.

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-professional-courses.html#CoursesForItalianUniversities) has been teaching Italian and preparing foreign students to take their entrance exams for many years. We understand that in the beginning it can be overwhelming to have to take an exam that is not in your first language and that is why we have designed a special course help you prepare for it.

"The University Preparation course for Medicine or Architecture" (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/Italian-language-professional-courses.html#CoursesForItalianUniversities) that includes 4 daily lessons of Italian language preparation that can last from 4 to 24 weeks depending on your language knowledge at the moment of enrollment and 140 lessons of preparation to admission test.

This course carefully focuses on the main subjects that the entrance exam will require you to know. We also pay special attention to grammar and sentence structure, because the exam will evaluate an individual's correct usage of Italian.

So your preparatory course will consist of two phases. The first phase is dedicated to linguistic training and the second phase is dedicated to reviewing material that is specific to the student's particular field of study.

By the end of the course students will have acquired a good knowledge of Italian language and the necessary linguistic skills to study for the entrance exam, pass the entrance exam with sufficient results, and to face their first year of Italian university with confidence.

The Preparatory Courses for the Faculty of Architecture will focus on specific architectural language that come from Architectural history, Construction, Science, Mathematics, Physics and other related disciplines.

For the Preparatory Course for the Faculty of Medicine, we will focus on material somewhat similar, because it will be necessary to have an extensive preparation in the subjects of biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, etc.

If you are thinking about pursuing your university studies in Italy, in Milan or Rome, then these courses would be the right courses for you.

Next courses will start on March 8th, 2010...for all the information about dates and prices for 2010 please visit our website http://www.scuolaleonardo.com.

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The Italian language school Leonardo da Vinci presents the Italian Winter Courses in Rome, Florence, Siena and Milan.

Florence, Tuscany -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/31/2009 -- When you think of Italy, you'll dream of sunny beaches, Mediterranean climate, the shadow of the pine trees and the smell of the straw flowers growing near the sea. When you think of Italy, you'll imagine all those things that for centuries have attracted all sorts of visitors from all over the world.

When you think of Italy, you'll immediately imagine all splendid Italian art works, as well as the Italian culture and the warmness of the Italian people. When you say Italy, you almost cover at once art, beauty, creativity and the highest quality of life.

All these images of Italy can of course also be enjoyed during the winter season. One of the great advantages of this season is the lack of mass tourism in all Italian cities. You don't have to queue up for the famous museums and you can reveal the real beauty of all the churches, palazzos and piazza's. But – most important – you can enjoy the real Italian culture.

During winter time (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/winter-italian-language-courses.html), you can easily become part of the Italian community. You will not be a tourist, but you will become a real Italian citizen. You will mix up easily with local people and their traditions and customs.

By studying Italian language at Scuola Leonardo da Vinci schools (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/winter-italian-language-courses.html), you will of course experience all aspects of Italian culture, but the special atmosphere in the Italian cities during the winter season will deepen this experience.

Also during the winter season our schools, in four attractive Italian cities, offer you a very wide range of possibilities to discover – or rediscover – the Italian language and culture.

In addition to the variety of programs, Scuola Leonardo da Vinci Milano's Winter Camps (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/junior-winter-camp.html) are now available for young students from 12 to 17 years.

Our teachers will welcome you warmly and cannot wait to show you the beauty of Italy during winter time!

Further information about the Italian language courses during Winter season (http://www.scuolaleonardo.com/winter-italian-language-courses.html) are available on the school's website.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm