SHORT BIO
Over the last decade, classical guitar players Francesco Loccisano and Marcello De Carolis, hailing from Southern Italy, have nurtured a profound passion for the "chittarra battente," a baroque-type guitar featuring 5-10 strings traditionally used in the "South" to accompany dance forms like tarantella or pizzica.
Their unwavering dedication to this unique instrument has led to the development of a new repertoire that resonates with audiences both locally and internationally. The duo released the album "Venti" (Italysona, 2020) as a result of their collaboration. Additionally, they have crafted a guitar method that enhances their musical expression and help self-trained musicians.
In showcase at Internationales de la Guitare (2022), Womex-The World Music Expo (2023), and Napoli World (2023), the duo has demonstrated that the beauty of the instrument and the seamless fusion of tradition and innovation, combined with the expansive soundscape meticulously crafted by the musicians has a strong appeal to a variety of audiences.
As Nick Hobbs of Charmworks puts it:
“I’m reminded of the energy and attack of Pete Townsend combined with the delicate subtlety of Paco de Lucia. They are purists. They manage to be virtuosi without being show-offy. Their sound is full as they play sometimes as one, sometimes in rapid counterpoint, like the Amendolea in flood or a gale sweeping across the treeless hills of Calabria. They’re brilliant!"
Depending on the venue and promoters, the duo has the flexibility to perform either as The Loccisano De Carolis Duo in the traditional format or as Loccisano De Carolis Duo with a special guest in an "open" format.
Discography:
- Loccisano
Battente Italiana (2010), Mastrìa (2013), Solstizio (2017)
- De Carolis
Cordaminazione (2015), The Eclectic Beating (2021)
- Loccisano-De Carolis
Venti (2020)
» The hypnotic grace of an instrument that seems to be waiting for its full understanding"
Blogfoolk
Francesco Loccisano is a classical guitar player from Calabria who has gained recognition for his mastery of the "chitarra battente." He has made significant contributions to the world of music by creating his signature style on the instrument. In 2015, Loccisano received a special invitation to join the Taranta Power Band led by Eugenio Bennato, an iconic figure in Italian world music. This collaboration allowed him to showcase his talents on a larger platform and enabled him to reach broader audiences with his music. Loccisano has released several albums for the "chitarra battente".
Classical guitarist Marcello De Carolis has been influenced by Loccisano's style on the "chitarra battente." Their friendship has inspired him to develop his unique approach to playing the instrument. In 2015, he founded the duo "Cordaminazioni", and released his first album.Since then, he has released new material and collaborated with other artists, expanding his mastery of the instrument.
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BASIC INFO
Years active:
2017-present
Website:
Genres:
World/Folk/Italy
Origin:
Southern Italy
Travel party:
2 to 3
Management:
Italysona
Album Venti (2021)
Album Venti (2021)
Discography: