Antonio Simone

Antonio Simone: A Jazz Pianist's Journey

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Hailing from Foggia, Italy, Antonio Simone is a gifted jazz pianist who has captivated audiences worldwide with his virtuosity and soulful melodies. Born on December 17, 1985, Simone's musical journey began at a young age, nurtured by the renowned Accademia Nazionale del Jazz "Fondazione Siena Jazz." Under the tutelage of esteemed maestros like Paolo Birro, Stefano Battaglia, Stefano Onorati, Aaron Goldberg, John Taylor, and Peter Martin, Simone's talent flourished, leading him to become the pianist for the SJU Big Band and SJU Ensemble.

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Simone's musical horizons expanded as he collaborated with jazz luminaries such as Achille Succi, Maurizio Giammarco, Roberto Spadoni, Pietro Condorelli, and Enrico Morello. His quest for knowledge led him to the "Città di Castellanza" academy, where he honed his skills under the guidance of Maestro Sante Palumbo. Simone further solidified his classical foundation by earning a diploma in piano from the "N. Piccinni" Conservatory of Music in Bari.

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Simone's passion for jazz piano propelled him onto prominent stages, including the prestigious "Piano City Festival" in Milan. In 2012, he captivated the audience in the young jazz pianist category, earning not only their applause but also a brief appearance on Raitre TgR Lombardia. His collaborative spirit extended to the "N. Rota" Conservatory in Monopoli and the "N. Piccinni" Conservatory in Bari, where he served as an accompanist for jazz singing classes.

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In 2018, Simone embarked on a new chapter, forming a piano trio with Angelo Verbena on double bass and Marcello Spallucci on drums. Their captivating performances graced jazz clubs and theaters across the country. Simone's collaborations expanded to encompass renowned figures in the Italian jazz scene, including Giuseppe Bassi, Gaetano Partipilo, Rossano Emili, Achille Succi, Roberto Spadoni, Giorgio Vendola, Mariano Di Nunzio, Luciana Negroponte, Cinzia Eramo, and Pino Mazzarano. His musical outreach extended to the soul-pop realm, collaborating with artists like Savio Vurchio, Claudia Ginga, and Gaia Gentile.

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Simone's artistic endeavors extended beyond the trio, as he joined forces with Gabriele Mastropasqua's Jazzed Up Orchestra, led by Maestro Roberto Spadoni. He also collaborated with the American-born singer Pasqualino Beltempo, contributing to his original compositions and recording projects.

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In May 2022, Simone unveiled his debut album, a self-reflective masterpiece titled "On My Path." This piano trio recording, featuring original compositions, was released on the esteemed Italian jazz label "Dodicilune- Edizioni Discografiche e Musicali." The album pays homage to philosopher Alfred Korzybski, a pioneer of general semantics, and aligns with Simone's ongoing project "Musica e Filosofia" (Music and Philosophy).

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Simone's international acclaim grew as he and his trio took their music to New York City, performing at "The Players Club" in Gramercy Park in October 2022. This performance marked the 70th Memorial dedicated to Alfred Korzybski and served as an international launch for his album. The tour continued to Spain, where they captivated audiences at the jazz clubs "Cafè El Despertar" and "Big Mama Swing" in Madrid.

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Simone's trio continued to mesmerize audiences across Italy and beyond, with notable performances at the San Severo Jazz Winter, the "Politeama Multisala Paolillo - In Live Jazz" festival in Barletta (featuring saxophonist Gaetano Partipilo), "Il salotto del Boud- Aire" in Rome, and the "Velvet Room" in Barcelona.

A particularly memorable concert took place at the "Riserva Naturale di Stato – Saline di Margherita di Savoia." Simone, accompanied by his quartet and collaborating with soul singer Luciana Negroponte, became the first Italian artist to perform on this remarkable "natural stage" in its 150-year history. The event was captured and documented by Rai 3 Tgr Puglia.

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As Simone's journey continues, he remains dedicated to exploring new sonic landscapes, both in original compositions and in homages to the jazz giants who have inspired his artistry. His upcoming album, aptly titled "To Giants," is set to be released on the acclaimed Italian jazz label "Birdbox Records."

Antonio Simone's story is a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect hearts. His virtuosity, creativity, and unwavering passion for his craft have earned him a place among the most celebrated jazz pianists of our time. With each performance and each composition, Simone continues to captivate audiences worldwide.