Leonardo Ciampa

Born in 1971, composer/organist/pianist LEONARDO CIAMPA is acknowledged as one of the most gifted and versatile musicians of his generation. As an organ recitalist, Ciampa has made seven European tours encompassing Italy, Austria, and Germany. He is particularly admired in Italy, where he has played in numerous international festivals (Festival Perosiano, Festival Biellese, Organi Storici della Valsesia, etc.). Currently, Ciampa directs the Chapel organ recital series at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and is Music Director of Christ Lutheran Church in Natick, MA. Prior to this appointment, Ciampa was for 23 years Director of Music in various churches in Massachusetts: St. Mary & St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Charlestown (2008-2009); St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Brookline (2001-2007); and the First Baptist Church in Jamaica Plain (1989-2001). At the latter he played the renowned 1859 E. & G. G. Hook organ (destroyed by fire in 2005), on which Ciampa recorded two CDs for AFKA records, No Room at the Inn and No Room at the Inn, Volume II. A third CD, Stained Glass, also on AFKA, will be released in 2009. Ciampa's compositions (which are considered “Neoromantic”) include The Annunciation Op. 203 (cantata for chorus, soloists, and strings); Suite Siciliana Op. 145 (for two violins, piano and orchestra), commissioned by the Pro Arte Chamber Orchestra of Boston to open their 25th anniversary season; five Organ Symphonies, a concerto for piano and organ; a piano quintet; and numerous sacred works. His works are published exclusively by CIC. As a piano recitalist, Ciampa is known for his warm sound and colorful style reminiscent of the Golden Age of Pianists. He is especially noted for his interpretations of Chopin (whose 200th birthday Ciampa will commemorate with several piano recitals in 2010). Ciampa collaborates regularly with the Lavazza Chamber Ensemble. An avid writer, Ciampa's books include The Twilight of Belcanto and Don Lorenzo Perosi. He also writes the blog, “Faultbook”.