Francesco Parrino

What does music mean to you personally?

Music has always been a fundamental part of my life. I’m grateful to have a way of expressing my thoughts and emotions, often more clearly through music than through words. And of course, it’s always nice to sing in the shower.



Do you agree that music is all about fantasy?

Not entirely. For me, music begins with real stories. Those real experiences are then transformed through the composer’s imagination into something that can feel fantastical. For example, my album “Look Out Look In” was inspired by real people, real places, and real events from my recent life.

If you were not a professional musician, what would you have been?

Probably a veterinarian or a surgeon. In fact, I’m also a licensed physiotherapist in this life, so… never say never!

The classical music audience is getting old. Are you worried about the future?

I’m not worried, as long as younger generations are introduced to classical music in a more casual, “pop-friendly” way. All contemporary music has roots in classical music, and once you realize that, everything starts to make sense. One of my goals as a pianist is to help “de-formalize” the way the instrument is perceived.

What do you envision the role of music to be in the 21st century? Do you see that role transforming?

Music will continue to play a crucial role in the 21st century. Our world is constantly evolving, and so is music. I can only imagine what the Billboard Top 50 will sound like fifty years from now…

Do you think musicians today need to be more creative? What does creativity mean for you in the musical process?

I honestly feel that almost everything has already been written. Real creativity lies in mixing and refining influences from the past to create something original and uniquely your own. It takes time, but it’s absolutely worth the effort.

Can musicians do something to attract younger audiences to concerts? How would you do that?

Absolutely, and it’s something I’m actively working on, especially through my YouTube channel. Presenting well-known pop and rock songs arranged for solo piano in fresh, original ways can help younger listeners rediscover an instrument that some consider “old”.

Tell us about your creative process. What is your favourite piece you’ve written, and how did it begin?

At the moment, my favourite original piece is Waterfall, the opening track of my album Look Out Look In. It was inspired by the breathtaking waterfalls of Iceland. I wanted to capture both their grandeur and the ever-changing fluidity of the water itself. Finding that balance was challenging and took several months (at one point I thought I might not manage it) but it was deeply rewarding.

What advice would you give young people who want to explore classical music for themselves?

Even the longest journey begins with a single step. Explore the great classical composers, and you’ll eventually discover the pieces and musicians you connect with most. Social media is also full of content featuring composers like Vivaldi, Chopin, and Beethoven. A great place to start.

Do you think about the audience when composing?

Yes and no. I try not to follow trends too closely, but at the same time it wouldn’t make sense to write music solely for myself. Music is meant to be shared.

What projects are coming up? Do you experiment in your work?

I’m looking forward to performing my original music on stages around the world and to writing new piano pieces soon. One of my biggest dreams is to compose for a full orchestra, but it will take a great deal of time and dedication. Maybe one day.

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