Born: November 2, 1975 Primary Instrument: Piano
Marco Marconi jazz pianist & composer
Classical beginnings
Born in Umbertide, Italy in 1975, Marco began his musical career as a classical pianist. Studying privately with Mauro Nadir Matteucci, Marco gained his diploma in classical piano from the Conservatory “F Morlacchi” in Perugia at the young age of 22, achieving full marks (100%) with honours.
Marco went on to win several piano competitions throughout Italy and in 1998 was a finalist in the annual competition at “La Fenice”, Venice, open only to the top graduates from Italian music colleges.
Later, Marco continued his studies at the Conservatory “F. Morlacchi” in Perugia and with Riccardo Risaliti, professor at the Conservatory “G Verdi” in Milano.
Doctor of Jazz
Having gained his first diploma in piano, Marco moved on to discover the world of jazz. Using his phenomenal technique and talent, he swiftly became a jazz appassionato, gaining a second diploma in 2005, this time in jazz, again achieving maximum votes (110/110).
Throughout this time Marco also deepened his knowledge of jazz under the guidance of Ramberto Ciammarughi, an exceptional pianist and composer on the European jazz scene. Discovering his own personal sense of style and self expression, Marco completed his post graduate studies in jazz in 2008 winning maximum votes (110/110) and high praise from the examiners. Marco is now officially a Doctor of Jazz.
Influences and collaborations
Influences on Marco's jazz studies include the incredible work of Keith Jarret, Bill Evans, Chick Corea, Miles Davis and John Coltrane and closer to home, Ramberto Ciammarughi, Paolo di Sabatino and saxophonist, Fulvio Falleri. Marco is also exploring the role of the piano in latin jazz, especially Gonzalo Rubalcaba.
Marco has taken part in several jazz workshops with Ciammarughi, Massimo Moriconi, Fabio Zeppetella, Umberto Fiorentino and legendary drummer, John Arnold.
Composing and performing
As a composer, Marco spends much of his time writing jazz which he performs live in concert and last year, Marco made his UK debut at the Cheltenham Jazz Fringe Festival 2009 to great acclaim performing his own songs and jazz standards.
Marco originally composed many of his pieces for piano solo but having met Mauro Giorgeschi, an outstanding drummer and Giulio Angori, a highly talented bass player, the music gradually took on a new form and the Marco Marconi Trio evolved.
The trio performs Marco's original music and the groove that they achieve alternates with sonority and resonance, fluid improvisations and moments full of pathos and melodiousness.
What they say
“I think everyone that heard Marco play was very impressed and I was also overwhelmed by his dedication… Marco is a remarkable musician and made a big impact on us this year.” Steve Symons, Cheltenham Jazz Festival Producer/Manager
“I can safely say that Marco's performances were the highlight of the fringe festival!” Stefan Edwards, Cheltenham Jazz Fringe Festival Organiser
“Wow! Marco Wow! I had the pleasure to listen to your beautiful pieces today and Marco I just have to tell you that they are stunning! They are “out of body” good! You have a true artist soul. Bravo Marco! I am so honored to have you on our site!” Jennifer Herbig, Co-Founder/A&R President Triple Scoop Music
Testimonials
“I have had the great pleasure of knowing and often hearing Marco Marconi play and the thing that strikes me on first impact about his piano playing is a great energy, controlled by an impeccable technique. After further listening you can appreciate the vast dynamic range of his touch on the keys, the result of years of studying classical repertoire. These studies have inspired a special style in the melodic construction of his solos. Stylistically, he has skilfully mixed jazz principles with those of latin music, the result of serious studies and a constant curiosity to find something new.” Paolo di Sabatino, Jazz Pianist and Composer (www.paolodisabatino.it)
