I Virtuosi Italiani: Genius between innovation and tradition

Giovanni Sollima graduated in cello with G. Perriera and in composition with E. Sollima. He furthered his studies in Salzburg with A. Janigro and in Stuttgart wit M. Kelemen. A reputed performer and composer, Sollima creates new blends of the most diverse genres by combining elements of classical and rock music, as well as of music of all the Mediterranean area.

Sollima’s works have been performed on international concert stages since 1992 by luminaries such as Yo‐Yo Ma, Antonio Meneses, Mario Brunello, La Scala Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Riccardo Muti, Kremerata Baltica under Gidon Kremer, the Moscow Soloists and Yuri Bashmet. In 1995 Sollima, who’s also an accomplished recording artist, established the Giovanni Sollima Band in New York to take his works throughout the world, to prestigious as well as alternative venues.

One of Italy's most significant musical collectives, I Virtuosi Italiani formed in 1989, bringing together some of the nation's most acclaimed string players to form an ensemble renowned for its authentic practice and unique timbre. Collaborating with theatres and venues all over the world, the ensemble welcomes guest artists as both soloists and temporary ensemble members, as demanded by the works on the programme, as well as a starry roster of guest conductors. Focused on Baroque, Classical and Contemporary repertoire, the ensemble has over 100 recordings and several major awards to its credit.