In this exclusive interview, discover the fascinating journey of Fabbro di Chiavi—from aerospace engineer to guitarist and composer. Exploring influences, the impact of Italian culture, and the shift from classical to electric guitar, delve into the unique musical identity shaped by international and Italian artists. Join us as Fabbro di Chiavi shares insights into the fusion of creativity, methodical execution, and the exciting journey ahead.
1. Can you share with us your journey from being an
aerospace engineer to becoming a guitarist and composer? How did your passion
for music develop alongside your career in aerospace engineering?
I began classical guitar studies at 8, and the guitar accompanied me
throughout. The shared passion for facing challenges and mastering complexity,
evident in both my music and aerospace career, has been a significant
motivator.
2. Growing up in Montebelluna, Italy, how did the local culture and
environment influence your musical tastes and aspirations as a guitarist and
composer?
The local environment had a significant impact. While many peers embraced
metal, my musical growth leaned towards classical, hard rock, and progressive
rock. Playing in a progressive rock band exposed me to diverse influences like
Genesis, Yes, and Camel, setting me apart from the prevailing musical scene at
that time.
3. You started with classical guitar studies and later transitioned to the
electric guitar. What prompted this shift, and how did it shape your musical
style?
While I always enjoyed the honesty of classical guitar, the allure of the
electric guitar, with its amplification and expansive possibilities, was
irresistible. The transition shaped my musical style by introducing a broader
sonic universe and the expressive potential of amplified soun.
4. Your sources of inspiration include international artists like Steve Vai,
Al Di Meola, and Symphony X, as well as Italian artists like Banco del Mutuo
Soccorso and New Trolls. How have these influences contributed to your unique
musical identity?
I've drawn something unique from each—how to treat melodies, create a symphonic
landscape, and navigate changing tempos. These artists' distinctive approaches
have significantly shaped my musical identity; but do not forget the classical
music composers;)
5. From rock music to progressive and metal, you've played in tribute bands
covering a diverse range of artists. How has this variety of genres and
experiences influenced your approach to composition in your solo project?
Playing in tribute bands, akin to classical guitar repertoire, was a constant
learning process. Each new challenge, whether a new technique or harmonization
approach, enriched my musical vocabulary. Learning covers by ear, without
internet support, honed my ear training over decades—an invaluable tool I still
use in composition today.
6. During the pandemic, you organized your recorded material and launched
the symphonic metal solo project, Fabbro di Chiavi. What prompted this
decision, and how did the unique challenges of the pandemic shape your creative
process?
In 2019, I designed my home studio, in collaboration with Masacustic—an Italian
expert in acoustic isolation and treatment (you can explore the walk-through
here). This preparation proved vital during the pandemic, providing an
organized space for music creation despite restrictions. The pandemic pushed
the boundaries for online collaborations, turning challenges into a positive
experience. Working with a diverse range of talents, even remotely, became an
invaluable source of learning. Explore more about the studio setup at
Masacustic.
7. Your first single, "Light and Heavy," was released in March
2022. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind this track and the
significance of its title?
"Light and Heavy" served as the "hello world" statement, a
challenge set by a friend, Leonardo the space pianist. In just three months, it
encapsulated the DNA of Fabbro di Chiavi—blending electric guitar fireworks
with acoustic/classical guitar and orchestral landscapes. The track beautifully
juxtaposes and synergies these two musical worlds
8. « Embracing the Unknown »seems to serve as a powerful overture reflecting
Stoic philosophy's core principle of accepting life's uncertainties. How did
Fabbro di Chiavi translate this philosophical concept into the musical realm,
and what aspects of the composition mirror the challenges of our ever-changing
existence?"
"Embracing the Unknown Overture" serves as a dense composition
encapsulating themes from both EP Part I and the upcoming Part II. In this
four-minute piece, Fabbro di Chiavi weaves a musical narrative that mirrors the
stoic philosophy's theme of steering being aware of the unpredictability of
life. The melody and recurring themes act as a guiding thread for the listener
in the ever-changing challenges mirroring life.
9. « Journey to Apatheia » is described as an adagio of tranquility,
translating the Stoic principle of Apatheia into a soul-stirring composition.
How did Fabbro di Chiavi convey the struggle for tranquility within the face of
external chaos through the melodies and structure of this piece?"
The composition 'Journey to Apatheia' reflects the Stoic principle of Apatheia,
conveying the struggle for tranquility amid external chaos through melodies and
structure. Embracing life's unknowns with acceptance, adaptability, and inner
strength forms the basis of Apatheia. The melody contends with the rhythmic
section, symbolizing the journey to find serenity in a tumultuous world.
10. « Emotion Ruler » explores the intricate psychology of a chess player,
with powerful riffs dominated by odd metrics. How does this composition
metaphorically represent the individual's struggle in society, and how did
Fabbro di Chiavi use musical elements to capture the mind games and resilience
echoed in Stoicism?
Emotion Ruler delves into the psyche of a chess player, employing powerful
riffs with odd metrics. Metaphorically representing an individual's struggle in
society, the composition aligns with the Stoic principle of controlling what is
within one's power. Fabbro di Chiavi utilizes musical elements to capture the
mind games and resilience inherent in Stoicism. The piece reflects the
dichotomy of control, emphasizing the importance of managing emotions in the
face of external factors, symbolized by the dynamic interplay of powerful
sections within the tune.
11. In your solo project, you aim to develop the interaction between guitar
and orchestra in a progressive cinematic context. How do you approach this
integration, and what challenges and rewards have you encountered in this
experimental process?
Integrating the orchestra into the progressive cinematic context of my solo
project is a powerful endeavor. The orchestra extends the musical landscape,
creating profound moments in the music. This interaction enhances the guitar,
serving as a color palette booster, allowing for heightened drama or joy. However,
a significant challenge lies in maintaining a clear separation between the band
and the orchestra during composition. Keeping frequencies distinct is crucial
for a balanced mix, ensuring each instrument's clarity amidst the orchestral
richness.
12. As someone engaged in earth observation and solar system exploration
missions, how does your scientific background influence your creative process
in music, particularly in the symphonic metal genre?
After the initial creative spark, my scientific background significantly aids
in structuring the process to achieve the final result. The workflow and
organization of composition draw heavily from the engineering world, shaping my
approach in dealing with the huge number of orchestra sections.
13. What role does technology play in your music-making process? Are there
specific tools or software that you find indispensable in your composition and
recording work?
Technology is integral to my home studio, offering a vast array of
possibilities. While I've explored various solutions, the analog chain of
recording remains crucial for minimizing delays. Additionally, I still rely on
the traditional method of using “digital” pencil and paper for music notation,
aligning with my specific needs
14. How do you balance your career in aerospace engineering with your
passion for music, and do you find any synergies between the two fields?
Balancing my aerospace engineering career with my music passion involves
meticulous time management and prioritization. Surprisingly, there are
synergies between the two fields — the precision and structured approach from
engineering often seep into my musical process, fostering a unique blend of
creativity and methodical execution.
15. Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals and aspirations as a
guitarist, composer, and aerospace engineer? Do you see these two aspects of
your life converging in any way in the future?
My long-term goals include pushing the boundaries of my music, and 'Intangible
Part I' has set the stage for the exciting 'Part II.' I'm eager to dive into
the next chapter, refining and enhancing the unique elements of my
compositions. The blend of being an aerospace engineer and guitarist already
involves mastering complexity daily, and who knows, maybe in the future, these
two worlds will intertwine even more seamlessly. It's an exciting journey
ahead!
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