Giovanni Sollima

The Profile

Italian cellist and composer born in 1962 in Palermo, noted for a vivid blend of classical, minimalist, rock and Mediterranean elements, and an intensely physical performance style.

Born in 1962 in Palermo; composer and cellist. Collaborations and performances cited include Giuseppe Sinopoli, Martha Argerich, Jörg Demus; works performed by Riccardo Muti, Gidon Kremer, Yuri Bashmet, and interpreted by Bruno Canino, Yo-Yo Ma, Mario Brunello. Collaborated with DJ Scanner; has worked with members of Bang on a Can and the Steve Reich Ensemble. Electronics used tastefully in pieces such as “Hell I”. “Violoncellez, Vibrez!” dates to 1993; Patti Smith appears on “Yet can I hear”.

Three DeBaser reviews praise Giovanni Sollima’s visceral cello and genre-blending compositions. Works highlights suites with classical, rock, minimalism and Mediterranean colors, with tasteful electronics. We Were Trees is lauded for “Violoncellez, Vibrez!” and emotive string writing, plus a cameo by Patti Smith. A live account from Villa Rufolo underscores his intense, physical stage presence.