Returning to Rome 20 years after my year-long residency at the American Academy was a magical experience, not to mention getting to spin a set in their gorgeous gardens. Then, hearing Orchestra dell’Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia perform my music brought back memories of many concerts I heard this superb orchestra perform during my time there.
It was amazing to hear what Daniil Trifonov has done with the Piano Concerto after living with it for two years. He is so mercurial, playing with every little corner of the piece and he rings such authenticity to every note – and his Prokofiev encores were a masterpiece in reinterpretation.
And Jakub Hrůša, such a stunning maestro! e can do anything from technical fireworks to hushed textures to long-lined lyricism. Not to mention, Orchestra Santa Cecilia sounded like a million bucks!.
My family loved the many hidden corners of Rome, including some tiny alleys I always love exploring. There’s one called Vicolo di San Trifone that’s as wide as your outstretched arms! The layering of so many eras and histories is one of Rome’s special treats, and I am so thankful that my own life has layered into the city in its own way.
