My solo programs are shaped by my background as both a conductor and répétiteur, with a particular focus on the intersection between orchestral thinking and pianistic virtuosity. My academic training in orchestral conducting, combined with extensive experience with symphonic repertoire, has deeply influenced my approach to rarely performed works of great virtuosity, such as Liszt's transcriptions of Beethoven's symphonies – essentially reimagining orchestral sonorities at the piano. This perspective also informs my exploration of the waltz's evolution from the Biedermeier period to the early 20th century across both French and Austrian traditions.
I approach transcription as a form of musical "translation" – a concept I've explored both in recitals and public lectures, including a TEDx talk on Liszt's Rigoletto paraphrases. Rather than viewing these works as mere reductions, I emphasize their independent artistic statements that breathe new life into their sources: preserving their essence while transforming their medium.
This concept was further developed during my artist residency at the prestigious Società dei Concerti in Milan, where I focused on the theme of 'Translations and Betrayals'. Here, I had the opportunity to explore cultural contaminations and the creative potential inherent in the processes of artistic transposition, bringing to light new interpretations and connections between different musical traditions.
Among my projects is an in-depth study of how Franz Liszt perceived and represented Italy, both through his celebration of Paganini and his reinterpretations of popular melodies known in Venice and Naples, as well as his interest in operatic music. Special attention is also given to 20th-century Italian music, with a focus on Luciano Berio, whose complete piano works I perform in celebration of the centenary of his birth.
