Occupation:
Flutist, pianist, composer and producer
Time in Japan:
6 and a half years
Where are you from?
I' from Italy Sicily, to be exact.
What do you do here?
I compose music for albums, TV commercials, movies, videos and CD Roms. I perform the
flute and piano for concerts and recording studios. I also do voluntary concerts for old
people's homes, handicap centers, hospitals etc.
What brought you to Japan?
I came here nine years ago for some concerts for one month. I really loved Japan and
finally I decided to stay.
How did you get started playing the flute and how long have you been playing?
When I was ten years old, my father owned a nightclub and it had live music. I loved to
listen and I decided to study. My first instrument was the accordion. After that I studied
the piano, recorder and at the age of thirteen I started playing the flute. Also, I used
to play the sax too.
What do you think about when you compose?
My music is very natural and I don't think. I just close my eyes and play.
What's your favorite type of music?
I love all kinds of music but especially classical, new age, fusion, jazz and bossa nova.
Who was your biggest influence?
Actually I don't think I ever had any particular influence. I hope I have my own style and
typical sound.
You have established yourself as a musician here in Japan. How can others do the
same?
You should believe in and know what you want, and be serious.
You say that 800 years ago you were Japanese. Please explain.
The way the Japanese talk, think, eat, live etc. are from the Kamakura age, people tell
me, 800 years ago. Sometimes I feel I am like that too. Actually, my character is not that
of a typical Italian!
What do you like about Japan most?
It is very safe, clean and the people are polite. I like the beautiful countryside, from
Hokkaido to Okinawa. And I love Japanese food very much.
What's your favorite area of Tokyo?
Tokyo is the best city in the world for amusement and entertainment. I like Asakusa and
Shibuya. Shibuya because it's a very young town and I can see the new generation of
Japanese people and wonder what might happen to Japan. Asakusa, in contrast, is the old
Japan. I can see what Japan used to be like.
If you could change one thing about Tokyo, what would it be?
I would like Tokyo to have more greenery, more nature. Right now there aren't too many
areas where you can just sit surrounded by nature.
If you could take one thing back from Japan to your native country, what would it
be?
The attitude that Japanese people have for everything; they are serious about their work
and about their play.
What's your recipe for a happy and successful life in Japan?
Work well and be serious about all that you do.
Occupation:
LIFE IN JAPAN: