ParthenoPiano [Digital Sheet Music]

ParthenoPiano is a collection of twelve timeless Neapolitan songs, from “’O sole mio” to “Napule è”, recreated by Ilio Barontini in an original pianistic garment. The album title derives from the name of a mermaid, Parthenope, who killed herself because of Ulysses's refusal and then gave shape to the city of Naples with her lifeless body – here is the mysterious explanation of "Napoletanità" ("Neapolitanity") as a desire of seduction and a sublime melancholy. Livornese pianist, teacher and composer Ilio Barontini (curious that Livorno is known as "the Northern Naples", a crossroads of trade and cultures) has always shown a great passion for popular music. 

In ParthenoPiano, Barontini creates a new kind of piano composition, that keeps melodies intact but at the same time presents rhythms and harmonies that highlight the mutual exchange between Parthenopean heritage and art music. This intensity of composition requests masterful virtuosity, impressively rich dynamics and agogics, and expert use of pedals. By listening to ParthenoPiano, we enjoy and rediscover themes that have defied time and have always represented the Italian spirit in the world.

Listen to ParthenoPiano on Spotify