23 June 2020

Accordionist Samuele Telari shares story of lockdown in Italy

By Julie Webb Client Director
Man in a black shirt smiling and holding an accordion in front of a red wooden wall.
Accordionist Samuele Telari stole hearts during his unique performance at the Aston Lark and Brewin Dolphin recital in London at the end of last year.

It was extraordinary to have the chance to sit close-up and watch his dexterity and keyboard skills.

Samuele, from Spoleto near Rome, has been selected by the Young Classical Artists Trust (YCAT) as an exceptional musician deserving a platform for more international exposure.

Of course, that’s difficult at the moment. He told me from his home in Italy: “It has been difficult in lockdown, however I live in the countryside so I have space to walk, run and breathe, plus it’s coming into late spring so that’s very nice!

I’m still giving lessons via Skype or WhatsApp, so at least I can keep a contact with my students. The really sad thing is concerts: step by step I’m losing each of them – up until July. I hope I can return soon to play among people, I’m starting to feel that it is a necessity for me.”

Samuele says of his videos: “They represent for me the most important artistic points of last year. The Goldberg Aria is the biggest programme I have performed, the whole Goldberg Variations.

I’m particularly devoted to this work because it was the subject of my Masters Degree and even though I’ve been playing it for years, I never stop changing, thinking and reflecting on it.

The concert in Kragujevac, Serbia, was one of the most famous accordion festivals, where the winners of the top international competitions give concerts.

The other pieces are from the YCAT final auditions. Maybe that event most changed my life – until now that is. After that day I started collaborating with a magnificent team who give me so many opportunities and support. They really are around for any of my artistic or practical need. Plus they support great artists which I have the chance to meet and start new collaborations.

See Samuele’s performances: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCejcwb9a0B9r3aBwabbIcyA

Learn more about Samuele at http://www.samueletelari.it or https://www.ycat.co.uk/samuele-telari