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ShareLudovico Einaudi (52) is an Italian contemporary classical music composer and pianist well known across Europe for his collaborative ventures in music, dance, film and theatre. He likes to listen to everything from The Beatles to Radiohead, he tells Riddhi Parekh
What brings you to India?
I always have been deeply fascinated by the universe of India: history, religion, philosophy, literature and, of course, music. I will present a selection from my solo piano music, from Le Onde (The Waves), I Giorni (The Days), Eden Roc, Una Mattina (One Morning) and Divenire (To Become).
You have said, "I would prefer to be called a minimalist than something else." In musical terms, what is 'minimalist'?
Maybe something that has some space inside, or a space that is not completely filled. There should be a space for the audience to listen and think without being totally overwhelmed.
How have your travels influenced your music?
Everywhere I go there is something that I discover. In West Africa there is a great musical tradition that has inspired me a lot, from composing an album like I Giorni, to making the album Diari Mali with kora player Ballake Sissoko, inspired by ancient Malian songs.
Your father, Giulio Einaudi, was a publisher, and your grandfather, Luigi Einaudi, was President of the Italian Republic. Has it made it easier for you?
Well it was stimulating, but I had to find my way somewhere else to express myself. From my father I inherited the love for books. I apply this love to the artwork of my albums. But I think I built my musical profession by myself.
What songs would feature in a 'recently played' list on your iPod or CD player?
I listen to different kinds of music, from songwiters like Jose Gonzales to the electronic music of Alva Noto, to Radiohead.
And Indian music?
Sometimes. I know some of the work of Ravi Shankar and a friend gives me CDs to listen to. One day I would love to explore it in a deeper way and do a project connected with Indian music.
What would you consider your greatest musical accomplishment?
To do what I am doing now, writing my music and touring the world with what I always wanted to do.
How have varied influences resulted in a 'unique' sound?
I have been exploring different aspects of music in my life, always guided by my instinct. My sound reflects myself and the music I love.
Other than touring, what projects are currently in the pipeline?
I'm always composing, searching, collaborating with different worlds. Maybe one day I would like to teach the experience I'm having in these years to other people.
Ludovico Einaudi, Tata Theatre, NCPA, April 2, 7 pm (organised by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Consulate General of Italy, the Melhi Mehta Foundation and NCPA)
Teen Murti Auditorium, New Delhi, April 4, 6.30 pm
