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)