1- THE DAILY ROUTINE, THE STUDIO, INTERNET AND THE HANDS

Luciano, can you speak to us about your daily routine of pianist, the time you devote to music?

When I am at home, I try to devote one hour daily to rehearsing the piano. I practice scales, technique exercises and I play classical works. But it depends on the work I have to do. When I am on tour, it’s more difficult because instruments are rented and l need authorizations from the theatres.

Then, I spend most of my time in my own studio. There, I don’t know where the time goes! I work the musical arrangements for Nana, Herbert and also for other productions. I even make soundtracks for other lesser known artists. Those are especially cover songs. Sometimes I also compose.

Like most musicians, you might work your arrangements with computer programs?

I work with Mac. I use music software assisted by Computer (MAO). With these programs, we can recreate all the instruments (from rhythmic to symphonic) and have an immediate idea of what we do. I use Pro Tools, Cubase, Logic and various virtual instruments. It’s very practical, effective and economical, but nothing replaces a real instrument. It’s not always obvious either because computer science changes very quickly and we must keep informed about the innovations.

Sometimes, I record in various studios for other artists. But it’s getting rarer because now all of them prepare their titles in their own studio. I also tour with Herbert Léonard and we give galas in France.

I know that you spend much time on Internet. What is the use that you make of it?

I’m surfing like everyone. I’m interested in current events, sports, all musical innovations, in almost everything. It’s a quite practical tool that quickly becomes essential.

Musically, what it brings to you? In addition, what do you think about downloading, the access to Music thanks to Youtube for example?

Internet is super without misusing it of course. That allows artists who start to make themselves known and to see if their music is popular. Even if I admit having downloaded some titles for practical reasons, I try not to do it. The Music industry is changing and nobody knows where that’s leading us. Even not records companies who resist as much as they can.

Do you have a model pianist, a famous pianist whom you admire? If yes, which qualities you appreciate of him?

For jazz music, my favourite pianist is Herbie Hancock for everything he contributed, but also Oscar Peterson (who was Canadian), Chick Corea, Bill Evans and Michel Petrucciani that I had the chance to know. As for classical music, I listen often to Arthur Rubinstein. I also adore Eddie Palmieri for Latin American music. All these pianists brought a lot to music. Through their style, their improvisation and their manner of playing. They are sacred monsters!

In a previous email, you told me that you take particular care of your hands, that you avoid do-it-yourself…

I take care of my hands because I’m always afraid to hurt myself. Then, I try to avoid all that is do-it-yourself or gardening. And moreover, I don’t like that and I am very awkward.