Massimo Scattolin, a wonderful Italian guitarist and a friend with whom I grew up in Treviso, will be performing at the Melbourne Recital Centre on the evening of February 23. Massimo will present a new composition of his entitled "The Melbourne Suite" inspired by his numerous visits to Melbourne over the years. As I have listened to him practising for it and many other pieces, I can tell you that is moving, clever, profound, insightful and unforgettable. There are parts devoted to the Yarra River, the city at night and during the day and again to Brunswick, Fitzroy, Parkville (and even Toorak!). Wherever Massimo stayed and made friends he recorded the emotions in his heart and mind and took those emotions as the inspiration for a piece that celebrates our much beloved Melbourne. Do not be a mug: don't miss out. Contemporary pieces for any instrument with the capacity to move do not happen often. You only have my word for it but Trust me. You will not be disappointed.
Massimo is internationally known as a classical guitarist but he has explored other forms of music, including Cuban music. In the last 5 years he has toured the world with the sons of Compay Segundo, the founder of the Buena Vista Social Club, who continue their father's tradition and are the true incarnation of the original Buena Vista. You can You tube Massimo by searching "Grupo Compay Segundo" and you will hear a charming orchestral interpretation of the Chan Chan.
Equally, if you can bring yourself to the Brunswick Town Hall this Thursday night you will witness another amazing musical event: a performance of early baroque music by my friends Michele Benuzzi and Elena Bertuzzi (yes, these surnames are uncannily similar and they are partners in real life!). Michele is from Milan and has specialized in harpsichord music. Elena, from Vicenza, near Venice, has a unique soprano voice for early Baroque music. Their performance gives you an amazing insight into a period of music where the musician's skill combined with story telling to reach technical heights that impress you even in this 21st century and stick to the mind like glue. For a mere $20 a ticket, you will receive a gift that will stay with you for life.
http://www.melbournerecital.com.au/whatson/this_month
www.stefano.com.au
