Today we’d like to introduce you to Angelo Della Valle.
Hi Angelo, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My name is Angelo Della Valle, and my musical story is a journey through notes and chords that began at just 5 years old when I grabbed my first guitar. Initially, I dedicated myself to classical studies, focusing on the study of guitar technique.
As the years passed, my curiosity pushed me to explore new horizons, leading me to dive into the fascinating world of the electric guitar. But the real turning point came at 14 when I started to appreciate jazz. A musical genre which, with improvisation and the constant need for creativity, resonated deeply in me, becoming the soundtrack of my artistic growth.
The path led me to attend a musical high school, a place where I was able to nourish my passion for both classical music and jazz. Shows in prestigious theaters and venues, such as the XFactor and the Teatro San Carlo in Naples, became my gym, where I honed my skills and shared my music with the public.
My adventure in the world of jazz was further enriched thanks to participation in the Umbria Jazz clinics, where I had the privilege of learning and sharing experiences with other passionate musicians.
The culmination of this extraordinary experience was winning a scholarship to the Berklee College of Music. There I was able to immerse myself in a unique training environment in the world, studying under the guidance of great masters such as Mike Stern, Luis Perdomo, Justin Faulkner, Mimi Jones and many others.
Today, my music continues to evolve, and the stage remains my creative laboratory. My story is a mix of passion, commitment, and the constant search for new expressions through the strings of my guitar. My journey never stops, and every note played is a chapter added to this extraordinary musical adventure.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My entry into Berklee College of Music was a significant step in my artistic growth, but at the same time, it was a journey full of challenges and deep reflections. Coming from a smaller and less competitive reality, I found myself catapulted into an environment full of talent.
Initially, I found myself confronted with a reality that seemed gigantic compared to my previous experiences. The competition was fierce, and the skill level among my Berklee peers was extraordinarily high. The first weeks were a merciless confrontation with the harsh reality of such a competitive environment.
The challenges were many, from the constant pressure to prove one’s worth to the awareness of having to compete with exceptional musicians. The feeling of being a small drop in a vast musical ocean initially overwhelmed me. The fear of not being up to par, of not having enough to offer in such a stimulating context, made its way into my mind.
The transition from a more contained reality to Berklee was a process of emotional and artistic adjustment. I had to reconsider my perception of myself as a musician, embrace humility, and learn to find my unique voice amidst a symphony of talent.
However, in the midst of these challenges, I have also learned that Berklee College of Music is a place of growth, learning, and opportunity. Every obstacle represented an opportunity to overcome my limits, to refine my skills, and to discover new facets of my musical identity.
The journey from a small business to such an inspiring environment has been difficult, but it has also been transformative. I learned to appreciate the musical diversity that Berklee offered, found my place in the vast landscape, and realized that the challenge itself was the vehicle for growth. Berklee shaped me, made my music richer and my resilience stronger, proving that even difficulties can become tools to create something extraordinary.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My goal as a musician and guitarist is linked to a sonic adventure that combines the traditional jazz language with a modern and innovative perspective. My artistic vision is guided by the desire to create a bridge between the past and present of jazz, adding a personal touch that reflects my spirit.
In my journey, I have embraced a variety of instruments and techniques, going beyond the guitar itself. The use of pedals and synthesizers has become an essential part of my approach, enriching my sound with layers of unusual textures and atmospheres.
The fusion of influences from different musical genres is a key element in my artistic expression. I was inspired and absorbed elements from various musical styles, creating a unique blend that goes beyond the boundaries of jazz. This breadth of influence allows me to bring to life a sound that is both rooted in tradition and open to new possibilities.
Ultimately, my mission is to create a sonic experience that is fresh, dynamic, and compelling. I dream of stimulating the listener with an innovative mix of traditional and modern jazz enriched by electronic sounds and multi-genre influences.
How do you define success?
Being able to make a living doing what you love.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelodellavalle_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/angelo.dellavalle.73/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBHCMD8qj3If2Jmg7_A9B-g
Image Credits
Giuliana Taglietti
Antonio Cangiano
Leonard Do
