Forbes: Floating Waves – A Contemporary Piano Experience On Lago Di Como

Nel-Olivia Waga
September 8, 2022
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Alessandro Martire is a young Italian pianist and composer, as well as the founder of the LEJ Festival at Lago di Como, his home. 

His compositions are the expression of a musical sensibility which, drawing inspiration from both classical tradition and contemporary elements, creates evocative and catchy melodies. Martire says „There is no definition for my music. You can call it new age, classical crossover, contemporary, alternative, but it always comes down to this: Alessandro Martire plays Alessandro Martire’s music.“

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Martire’s original music led him to perform in prestigious universities and theaters around the world. Through his music he connects in an intimate manner with his audience, tapping into their emotions, thoughts and dreams like an old friend.

This summer, I’ve met him at the iconic Villa d’Este in Cernobbio, Lago di Como after he performed on his piano, floating on Lake Como while guests were listening and watching from their boats. 

Alessandro, what inspired you to create Floating Waves?

Alessandro Martire: The Floating Waves Concert is the natural continuation of the previous floating projects I’ve made. I was inspired by the desire to take the listener directly onto the water and be enchanted by my notes.

Lake Como is my greatest source of inspiration because it is the region where I was born. It allows me to best express my compositional art.

You said you’ve created the piano and the floating platform yourself – with the help of designers and local constructors. What’s so special about the piano and the platform? 

My piano is called „Waves“. I wanted to create a visual aspect to my music. Combining design and music was a wonderful experience, it allowed me to unite two great passions of mine. The piano project, designed by architect Claudio Bargna, was carried out by companies from the Lake Como area, particularly companies from the city of Cantù. It envisions the use of sustainable materials, maintaining lightness of line, curved wood and elegance, to add a new aesthetic dimension to the art of sound.

The platform has a mirrored effect, to connect water and sky among the beauty of Lake Como.

Last year the concert happened on the lake while visitors were watching from the shores. This year you were floating on the lake and viewers joined you on a boat ride in front of Villa d’Este.

I wanted to create a new experience, perhaps even more in contact with the artist and more evocative. Last year people listened from the shore, walking along the path of the platform, this year they experienced the magic of listening while floating. This is exactly the feeling feeling I always have when I’m playing the piano. 

Villa d’Este is the most iconic place at Lake Como. It combines so much history, tradition and magnificent beauty. It’s just the most perfect backdrop. Who wouldn’t love it?

What’s your vision for the future? Where would you like to see yourself playing? 

I love playing on mountain tops, on frozen lakes and in deserts. The connection with nature for me is really an indescribable emotion. With nature I find inspiration for my music, sharing it with the public I believe is the work that completes it.

What’s the message you want to share with your listeners and viewers? 

I love to surprise my audience, giving them not only my music, but unforgettable experiences that will always remain etched in their hearts.

HER/etiquette

Founded in 2014 and reimagined in 2019 by Nel-Olivia Waga, HER/etiquette is an international blog rooted in Zurich, and shaped by conscious luxury. It explores global trends and everyday rituals across art, longevity, wellness, innovation, beauty, and design, highlighting brands and individuals who bring meaning and creative solutions to modern living.

Nel-Olivia Waga is the Founder & Publisher of HER/etiquette. She is a Brand Consultant, Author, and Entrepreneur. Her work regularly appears in her FORBES column. She is also the founder of YMPACT LAB, a consultancy that develops innovative concepts for global brands with a focus on purpose and impact.

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#ConsciousLuxury is the theme of HER ETIQUETTE. We spotlight pioneers who rethink excellence through transparency, intention, and care for both people and planet. Each story opens a window into what drives meaningful change, whether it’s a new perspective, a responsible approach, or a quiet detail that speaks volumes. It’s our way of inviting more depth into the way we experience modern life.

 

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