Francesco Attesti

This January, the Academy Orchestra is proud to present the internationally acclaimed pianist, Francesco Attesti. One of the leading interpreters of the romantic and early 20th century repertoire, Attesti has graced the stages of some of the most prestigious concert halls, including the Philharmonic Hall of Saint Petersburg, Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory, and the Mozarteum of Salzburg. The Italian virtuoso brings his exquisitely polished classical interpretations to The Lyric Theatre this winter under the direction of Thomas Servinsky.

 

Born in Cortona, Italy, in 1975, Francesco Attesti was immediately recognized as a child prodigy. Francesco began playing the piano at the age of six and achieved a high level of musical excellence quickly. The young pianist gave his first concert at age 11, playing a transcription of Toccata and Fugue in D Minor by J.S. Bach. Five years later, Attesti met the famous Italian pianist Sergio Perticaroli, who invited the young teenager to attend a summer masterclass at the Mozarteum of Salzburg. Francesco Attesti continued to excel, winning several national and international piano competitions during this time. In 1998, the aspiring pianist began his tutelage under Maestro Luigi Tanganelli at L. Cherubini Conservatory in Florence, where he earned the highest possible grades in piano. After attending masterclasses under legendary musicians Jacques Rouvier and Hector Moreno, Attesti released his first CD. 

 

This led to the further release of Francesco’s work, including a 2007 recording of Verdi’s requiem, the first recorded transcription for piano and organ.  One of Francesco Attesti’s greatest moments as a pianist came when the musician was asked to perform the Italian premiere of “Chiavi in Mano” with the Czech Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra of Prague, written by Pulitzer Prize winning composer Yehudi Wyner. Francesco first came to Florida for a performance arranged by the Rotary Club of Port St. Lucie, who worked with St. Bernadette to bring the internationally renowned pianist to the area. Now, Francesco returns for another celebrated performance with the Academy Orchestra.