Francesco Fontanelli: Chasing Dreams in the World of Musicology
Today, we’re graced with a delightful narrative from a certain Francesco Fontanelli, a musicologist who’s strutting his academic stuff all the way in Berlin. Now, don’t worry! This isn’t just some dry research paper filled with jargon. No, this is a heartfelt journey that even your gran might get misty-eyed reading over her tea while munching on a biscuit.
Francesco kicks off reminiscing about his childhood and how his parents fashioned a climate where confidence was as plentiful as the spritzers at a German beer festival. They provided him not just with support but, as he poetically puts it, an example of “self-sacrifice without shortcuts.” I mean, what a way to start! Take notes, parents: IKEA furniture assembly is not the same as self-sacrifice.
But here’s a twist for you—Francesco suggests that kids chasing dreams shouldn’t just sprint blindly into them like a deer on dodgy ice. Instead, they should be cautious, probing their dreams with the curiosity of a cat who’s just walked into a room full of laser pointers. “Sometimes it could be an illusion,” warns Francesco. It’s like he’s channeling the wise words of a yoga instructor right before class starts: “Breathe deeply—but look where you’re going!”
Now, zooming out to the German music scene, this guy is quite the prodigy. His love for music was kind of born out of rebellion against the mountains of books gathering dust on his folks’ shelves. Give that lad an award for honest introspection! Can’t see much of that in today’s Facebook posts, can we? He confesses his earliest musical obsessions came courtesy of Disney cartoons—because who doesn’t hear Brahms when watching “The Three Little Pigs”? Admit it, it haunts you too!
At eight years old, little Francesco was introduced to the grand world of musicals. Don’t you just love how theater can ignite a desire for something much grander? I can almost visualize it: sitting in the auditorium, wide-eyed, with the faint smell of popcorn in the air, and boom—a future musicologist is born! That decision to play piano? A spontaneous request to the parental units that popped out before he had time to argue about chopping onions while they made dinner.
Fast forward through piano lessons with the formidable Lina Calafato and a whole lot of Chopin. The kid really knew how to roll with his passions! Attending the “Verdi” Conservatory in Como, he practically flew through exams and even bagged awards for his thesis on Alfredo Casella. Who can say they have both the genius of an academic and the suave of a performer? Apparently, Francesco can!
Then, we fast forward again to present-day Berlin, a melting pot of culture. After applying for a scholarship from the prestigious “Alexander von Humboldt” Foundation (try saying that three times fast), Francesco beat out competitors worldwide and now graces Germany with his presence until 2025—just in time for the next Oktoberfest! But folks, he’s not just there for the pretzels; he genuinely hopes to foster a love for musicology back in Italy, which he lovingly refers to as misunderstood, like a misunderstood teenager who just wants to be accepted.
In a grand finale, he credits some serious heavyweights as his academic mentors. Let’s just say, with props to experts on Verdi and Puccini, he’s got an A-team right there. It’s kind of sweet, really, how he’s so willing to acknowledge the people who’ve shaped him. Kind of makes you want to go hug your favorite teachers—right before you confess you didn’t do that reading they assigned.
In closing, when you think about Francesco’s journey, it’s about far more than just music and academia. It’s about resilience, curiosity, and finding your ultimate passion—even if it begins from a Disney film. So to all the budding musicians and scholars out there: take a cue from Francesco. Dive deep into your dreams, but remember to pack a bit of curiosity alongside. Who knows? You might just find a Brahms masterpiece hidden in the business section of your local library. Happy dreaming!
«My parents have always supported me, creating a nurturing environment that instilled confidence and maturity in my decision-making. They demonstrated the value of hard work through their own dedication to their studies, never taking shortcuts. For children pursuing their dreams, I would suggest rigorously testing those aspirations, as they may sometimes prove to be mere illusions. The journey requires a curious mindset, one that is open to discovering unexpected experiences that might challenge an existing dream and potentially reveal a new, more authentic path. At that moment, all that remains is to pursue this newfound calling.” This sentiment resonates deeply, especially as the young scholar reflects on his journey, which led him to an enriching life in Germany filled with cultural and academic experiences.
Francesco Fontanelli, a dedicated musicologist born in 1988, is currently contributing to research at the esteemed “Humboldt-Universität” in Berlin. Here, he immerses himself in the intricate study of Beethoven’s last string quartets, a pursuit that bridges history and creativity. To understand how everything began, let’s explore his early influences. «The spark of my passion for music – he notes – ignited perhaps due to the many tomes that lined the shelves at home. While a novel can take days to digest, music envelops us with immediate sensations and conveys emotions that are often beyond words. My first musical engagements were indeed shaped by Disney cartoons, particularly “The Three Little Pigs”, where I found enchanting melodies that I later identified as Brahms’ Hungarian Dances.»
At the tender age of eight, his father Giuseppe, a respected professor at our University, introduced him to the musical world by taking him to see the acclaimed production of “Evita”. Francesco was captivated and, reflecting on that moment now, he recognizes it as an early foreshadowing of the profound emotional resonance he would later discover in opera. «The choice to pursue piano lessons arose organically – he elaborates –; I approached my parents with my enthusiasm, which led me to study under Lina Calafato in Milazzo. Her mentorship was crucial in instilling in me the beauty and discipline essential for making music. Under her expert guidance, I prepared diligently for my conservatory entrance exams, all while balancing my academic commitments at the classical high school. During this time, the works of Chopin, particularly his “Preludes” and “Ballads”, became my favorite pieces, and I often performed them on the piano in our school’s main hall during breaks.»
Once he completed his high school education, Francesco faced significant choices ahead. While his love for Latin and Philosophy tempted him toward a Faculty of Letters, he ultimately sought to pursue a passion that had the potential to evolve into a larger vocation. «It was during my search that I discovered the rich offerings of the Department of Musicology in Cremona, part of the University of Pavia. This inspired my decision to relocate. I graduated in piano from the “Verdi” Conservatory in Como, under the tutelage of the late maestro Carlo Bernava, a distinguished figure from Messina. My degree thesis focused on the composer Alfredo Casella and was honored as the best thesis in the national “De Sono” competition, leading to its publication in 2015. To my surprise, I also received recognition in the following year from the Teatro La Fenice in Venice, receiving the esteemed “Arthur Rubinstein-A life for music, young people” award. It was then that I truly understood I was navigating the right path in my academic and creative endeavors.»
Today, he reflects: «For the last four years, I’ve served as a research fellow and contract professor in the Department of Musicology in Cremona. However, my current experience takes root in the vibrant capital of Germany, a city steeped in rich cultural heritage. After the challenges of the pandemic, I applied for and won a prestigious scholarship from the “Alexander von Humboldt” Foundation, competing against talented scholars from across the globe. This opportunity has granted me the privilege of residing in Berlin until July 2025.”
Francesco expresses a singular aspiration: «After these enlightening pursuits, which have greatly enriched my academic and personal growth, I hope to maximize the experiences I’ve gained over the years. Teaching is a profound passion of mine; it provides a cherished opportunity to step away from solitary study and engage in dynamic dialogues with students. My hope is to continue this fulfilling work in Italy, where I can contribute to the broader understanding and appreciation of musicology as an essential yet often overlooked discipline. Finally, when we inquire about the mentors who shaped his journey, Francesco cites, «Above all, Fabrizio Della Seta, an eminent authority on Verdi and Bellini, alongside Gianmario Borio, a crucial figure in twentieth-century music scholarship, and Michele Girardi, a prominent Puccini expert. My accumulated knowledge and skills owe much to their guidance and inspiration.»
Interview with Francesco Fontanelli: A Journey Through Musicology
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Francesco! Your journey in musicology is quite inspiring. To start, could you tell us a bit about the impact your childhood and family had on your choice to pursue music?
Francesco: Absolutely! My parents were instrumental in shaping my path. They created a nurturing environment that instilled confidence in me, showcasing the value of hard work without shortcuts. Their dedication to their own studies taught me the importance of commitment and perseverance. This really laid the groundwork for my pursuits. I always believe that the first step in chasing one’s dreams is having a solid support system, which I felt blessed to have.
Editor: That’s a wonderful perspective! You mentioned the idea of dreams sometimes being “mere illusions.” What do you mean by that, and how does that shape your approach to your studies?
Francesco: I think it’s essential for young dreamers to actively explore their aspirations with a sense of curiosity. Dreams can be captivating, but they can also mislead you if you don’t investigate them thoroughly. It’s about finding a balance—embracing the excitement while being open to new possibilities that may lead you toward a more authentic path. Sometimes what initially appears as the ultimate goal can transform into something even more meaningful with a little exploration.
Editor: Fascinating! Now let’s talk about the music scene in Berlin. How has your experience there shaped your view of musicology and its place in today’s culture?
Francesco: Berlin is an incredible hub of creativity and culture. Being surrounded by diverse musical styles and deep historical roots has enriched my understanding of musicology. I’m currently studying Beethoven’s last string quartets, which is a captivating field that unveils the intersection of history and creativity. I’m eager to bring some of these enriching experiences back to Italy, a country that I feel often overlooks the depth of its musical heritage.
Editor: It sounds transformative! And what about your early influences? You mentioned Disney cartoons—how did those experiences shape your love for music?
Francesco: Disney cartoons were my gateway into the magical world of music! I remember being captivated by the melodies and how they told stories, especially in films like “The Three Little Pigs.” Listening to those enchanting tunes, I began to connect them with classical composers like Brahms, which sparked my initial passion. It was more than just entertainment; it was a formative experience that deepened my appreciation for music’s emotional power.
Editor: You have quite the impressive academic background, diving into your studies at the “Verdi” Conservatory and eventually winning awards! What was a defining moment for you during your time there?
Francesco: One defining moment was my thesis on Alfredo Casella, which was recognized as the best thesis in the national “De Sono” competition. This validation not only solidified my academic pursuits but also encouraged me to share my understanding of Casella with a broader audience through publication. It felt like a moment where my hard work truly paid off, confirming that I was on the right path.
Editor: As you continue your journey, what advice would you give to aspiring musicologists and musicians out there?
Francesco: My primary advice is to immerse yourself fully in your passions while keeping an open mind. Explore different avenues within music—you never know where your curiosity might lead you. Also, never underestimate the importance of mentorship. A great teacher can inspire and guide you in ways you may never expect. Above all, enjoy the process of discovery; it’s as important as the finish line.
Editor: Thank you for sharing your insights, Francesco! Your journey embodies resilience and curiosity in the world of musicology. We wish you continued success in your research and endeavors in Berlin!
Francesco: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure sharing my story.
A way to experience emotion and storytelling through sound. Those early impressions stayed with me and laid the foundation for my journey into musicology.
Editor: It’s amazing to see how childhood influences can shape our adult lives! Speaking of influences, you’ve mentioned some significant mentors along your journey. How have they impacted your academic career?
Francesco: My mentors have been pivotal in my development as a musicologist. Fabrizio Della Seta, for instance, opened my eyes to the depth of operatic literature, while Gianmario Borio provided me with insight into twentieth-century music. Each of these figures brought unique perspectives that have greatly enriched my understanding and passion for the field. Their guidance not only honed my academic skills but also instilled in me a sense of responsibility to pass on that knowledge to future generations.
Editor: That’s a beautiful way to pay it forward! Lastly, as you’re researching and teaching, what message do you hope to convey to aspiring musicologists and musicians in Italy?
Francesco: I want them to realize that musicology is a vital discipline that enriches our understanding of culture and history. I encourage young scholars to be curious and resilient in their pursuits. It’s often about connecting the dots between the past and present, and never hesitating to explore the intersections of different genres and experiences. Most importantly, I want them to recognize that music is a powerful form of expression—embracing it can reveal our shared human experiences.
Editor: Wise words, Francesco! Thank you for sharing your inspiring journey and thoughts on musicology. We look forward to seeing how your work continues to shape the future of this wonderful field.
Francesco: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure to share my experiences and insights.
Ending Note: The conversation with Francesco Fontanelli serves as a reminder of the profound connections between music, culture, and personal identity. As he continues his journey through academia and performance, we can only anticipate further contributions that will bridge the gap between historical scholarship and contemporary appreciation for music.
