Virginio Aiello (b. 1975) is an Italian pianist, composer and educator who has been captivating audiences for over 25 years with his musical versatility and creative brilliance. With a strong foundation in classical and jazz, he graduated from the "S. Giacomantonio" Conservatory in Cosenza before earning a Master’s in Jazz Composition. Aiello’s artistry transcends genres, blending classical elegance with the rich rhythms of jazz, tango, and bossanova.
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Virginio Aiello, and I was born and raised in Italy. I am a musician, composer, pianist, and teacher. In my private life, I dedicate myself to my passions: photography, living in nature, spending time with friends, and, of course, music. In short, I lead a fairly normal and simple life.
How did your journey in classical music begin?
I started studying the accordion at a very young age. Later, I enrolled in the conservatory, and since at the time this instrument was not included in the academic curriculum, it was natural for me to direct my interests toward the piano. I still remember the entrance exam; it was very selective. After 10 years, I graduated in classical piano, and I still remember the recital program for my diploma. Among the various compositions, I played Scriabin's Fifth Sonata and Liszt's B minor Sonata, a composer I fell in love with at the time.
In your opinion, what role does classical music play in today's culture, and how can it continue to evolve to reach new generations?
The classical music audience is aging, making it a difficult time for this genre. While I'm not worried, I believe that musicians should renew their language and communication to engage a younger audience. Musicians play a crucial role in promoting classical music and inspiring young people to fall in love with it. Every musician should also be a communicator. The live concert experience should be made more interesting and engaging through the use of new technology and other art forms, creating a unique, surprising, and interactive show. Musicians, educators, and teachers play a vital role in guiding young people. They can offer valuable advice on what to listen to and help them develop an appreciation for beauty and art. There are also many interesting books that can help people better understand this fascinating world.
How do you stay inspired?
Music is my life. I couldn't live without practicing it or listening to it every day. It is my form of communication with the world. When I compose, feelings and emotions come out. Melancholy is one of them; I think it is that feeling that comes closest to the soul. It is not a negative emotion but a feeling that makes us human. My inspiration comes from various elements. I am inspired by my story, my feelings, my relationships, the elements of nature, and the arts. Everything inspires me. I work on small ideas, which I then elaborate on and develop. It is an artisan process, like that of a sculptor working on a piece of marble to create a work of art.
Are there other genres or art forms that influence your approach to classical music?
My compositions are often linked to the evocative aspect. I try to translate into music everything that arouses my interest: nature, art, cinema, architecture. Imagination is very important for a musician. Along with imagination, a deep knowledge of musical languages, history, and theory is necessary. A complete preparation helps develop imagination. In terms of composition, I am mainly inspired by historical minimalism, starting with Erik Satie, Philip Glass, and Arvo Pärt, though I also incorporate elements from jazz, particularly the use of harmonic tensions and a certain treatment of rhythmic movement.
What are your plans for 2025? Are there any upcoming projects you’re excited to pursue in the coming year?
I have many new musical projects, including new compositions for piano and an album with a very talented Bulgarian cellist named Vesislava Todorova.
I would also like to work for the cinema... we'll see what the new year has in store for us.