What does Greek mythology have to do with neoclassical piano and composing? Quite a lot, according to Italian pianist and composer Tommaso Farinetti. In our conversation with him, we explore how timeless myths fuel his neoclassical compositions, dive into his creative process, and discover his deep-rooted connection to history and mythology.
Over the years, Tommaso has named many of his compositions after figures from Greek mythology, finding creative refuge in these timeless stories. His latest EP with Andante Piano, ‘Under Hypnos’, is entirely based on ancient Greek myths, so we found this the perfect opportunity to sit down and discuss how these narratives influence his storytelling and compositional process.
First comes the basic need to create something new. Then, once I’ve shaped a musical idea, I think of a story to go with it, a beautiful outfit to dress the music in.
The theme of the EP is about oblivion and forgetting and how life slips quickly through our fingers, pulling us into a kind of hypnosis, a deep sleep. It’s an ancient theme, rooted in Greek mythology. The EP features different figures and symbols from that tradition: Nyx, Erebus, the river Lethe, and Morpheus, who guides us by shaping our dreams.
Greek mythology has always been a great source of inspiration for me when writing music. It feels like our shared cultural memory, and it’s still very relevant today. Reading those fascinating stories often gives us keys to better understand our modern world.
One piece that definitely influenced me is Orpheus Over and Under by David Lang, a contemporary work for two pianos that I perform in concert with my wife, Serena Chillemi. It’s based on the myth of Orpheus, who goes down into the Underworld to try to save Eurydice. The way David Lang captures both the anguish and hope of that journey moves me every time I play it.
These are stories I often think about, almost randomly. I studied them in school, but back then I wasn’t really interested. I actually thought they were a bit silly. But somehow, they stayed with me. In 2022, I released my first track with Andante Piano and called it Ancient Stories. This EP connects back to that piece, like closing a circle.
I almost never start writing music with a specific theme in mind. First comes the basic need to create something new. For me, it feels like a way to stay connected to myself, almost like a form of self-therapy. Writing music calms me. Then, once I’ve shaped a musical idea, I think of a story to go with it, a beautiful outfit to dress the music in. And in this case, it was a Greek one.
One myth in particular that stands out to me is the story of Icarus. His character is deeply human: overly euphoric, reckless, bold, and blind to his own limits. With his wax wings, he flew too close to the sun and ended up burning himself.
I don’t know, and I don’t rule it out. It’s always inspiring to dig into the past to create new music. As a composer for documentaries, I reflect deeply and often engage with social, political, and current issues, like in my most recent soundtrack for a film about the current catastrophic situation in Lebanon. I’m also deeply passionate about the political history of post-war Italy. Who knows what my next source of inspiration will be? For the future, I’m keeping all options open.
Tommaso Farinetti is an Italian classical pianist and composer whose musical interests span from the romantic solo piano repertoire to the more experimental realm of free improvisation.
Listen to his EP, 'Under Hypnos'
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At Andante Piano, we believe in the transformative power of piano music to offer comfort and a respite from the demands of modern life. Inspired by the rich traditions of our home city, Amsterdam, we collaborate with pianists from around the world to compose and release pieces that blend the timeless elegance of the piano with a modern twist. Wherever you are and whatever the time of day, our music aims to create a tranquil space for you to find inner peace.
