We’re looking forward to introducing you to Tommaso Cappellato. Check out our conversation below.
Tommaso, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
going to the park and meditate
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I primarily identify as a jazz drummer, originally hailing from Italy. My work encompasses a variety of roles, including producer, DJ, curator, band leader, and occasionally, teacher. I own two small jazz labels: Domanda Music, founded in 2021, which focuses on releasing artists from the Italian jazz scene, and Explorare, established in 2023 to facilitate my projects in Los Angeles.
In Los Angeles, I lead two distinct ensembles. The first is Explorare, a trio featuring pianist Diego Gaeta and bassist Tony Martin, where we explore jazz funk and Brazilian classics from the ’70s alongside some original compositions. The second group, Calycosa, is a quartet that includes vocalist and flutist Aankha Neal, keyboardist Salenta Baisden, and Qur’an Shaheed, also on keyboards, and is dedicated to pure improvisation.
Additionally, I have a significant project in Italy called Collettivo Immaginario, a jazz funk trio that exclusively performs original compositions.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
No one, really. I had to find the courage to embark on a journey of self-discovery on my own, a path that continues to unfold to this day.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
It taught me to delve deeper into my personal growth. Without that experience, I wouldn’t have pushed myself to improve as significantly as I have.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
Generally people who are balanced and are equally kind, firm, soft, confident, talented, ambitious and classy
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I find myself increasingly detached from my legacy; it’s now more about the present journey. I observe the various waves that carry me from one point to another, with the wind guided by my intentions and desires.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/tommasocappellato
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tommasocappellato/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommaso-cappellato/
- Twitter: https://x.com/tommycappellato
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tommaso.cappellato/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/tommaso+cappellato
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/tommasocappellato
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@tommaso.cappellato
Image Credits
1. Elena Botti
2. Simone Settimo
3. Veronica Lechuga
4. Jose Cordon
5. Giorgio Pasini & Mattia Tono
6. Mattia Tono
7. Mattia Tono
8. Carlos Garcia
