Linda Guglielmi Salis: A Symphony of Passion and Modernity
By your friendly neighbourhood commentary combo: a sprinkle of Jimmy Carr, a dash of Rowan Atkinson, with a pinch of Ricky Gervais and a whirlwind from Lee Evans!
Imagine a twenty-two-year-old violinist strutting across a stage with more confidence than a cat in a room full of rocking chairs. That’s Linda Guglielmi Salis for you! Hailing from Bologna and currently weaving her magic in Lugano at the Conservatory of Italian Switzerland, she’s not just any musician but a beacon of passion and determination. And if anyone asks her how on Earth a girl her age approaches classical music, she gives them an answer that sounds intriguingly like a family affair.
Linda attributes her love for music to her sister. I mean, sibling rivalry takes on a whole new twist when your competition is a musical genius. Linda started her musical journey with her sister’s teacher and before you could say “Mozart”, she was dancing into the world of classical music, before it all changed significantly—probably better than the change in my last haircut! With a style that could dazzle even the fussiest concertgoer, she’s on a mission to serenade the world, one violin string at a time.
“I locked myself in my room and rehearsed all day”, Linda says, and if that doesn’t sound like every introverted kid’s dream (or nightmare, depending on the family dynamic), I don’t know what does! Imagine the sounds echoing off the walls, a delicate blend of despair and determination—not quite Adele, but certainly heartfelt!
Bologna, a city bursting with culture and history, has significantly influenced her musical journey. It’s a music lover’s paradise, with concert halls and orchestras popping up faster than you can say ‘symphony’. Just a little warning, though: don’t go grumbling about classical music in this town, or you might just find yourself facing the wrath of a disgruntled violinist.
From Italy to the World: A Journey Beyond Borders
So, what made her pack her bags and become an ex-pat in Switzerland? “It’s important to have experiences outside Italy,” she asserts, with all the conviction of someone who has probably travelled more than most of us dream of. If you want to be the best, you’ve got to learn from the best, and let’s be honest, Switzerland is about as fancy as it gets when it comes to the Conservatory scene. Just picture this: excellent teachers, high standards, and of course, the Swiss chocolate! You can’t exactly complain about your decision when sweet treats are part of your daily life.
However, don’t let the fancy Swiss Alps fool you; Linda’s heart still beats for Bologna. It’s like a romantic comedy where the violinist can’t help but pine for her hometown, a city with two towers that clearly knows its music business. “Living under the Two Towers is a priority for me,” she insists. Prioritizing the towers over the Alps? I feel a dramatic, heart-wrenching ballad coming on!
Reviving Classical Music for the Youngsters
Now, let’s talk repertoire. While many classical musicians get stuck in their own world—like they’re trapped in a never-ending elevator ride—Linda is breaking out of that box. She’s dipping her toes into different genres, from pop to more modern sounds, as if she’s channeling her own musical wizardry. This girl isn’t just about crunching numbers with sonatas; she’s collaborating with singers to create a diverse musical landscape! Talk about a modern twist on the classic!
But here’s the million-dollar question: do young people still care about classical music? “More than anything, I want to make my generation appreciate it,” she says, likely channeling all the motivational speeches you’d hear in the most uplifting teen drama movie ever. And let’s be honest, there’s a certain prejudice among peers against classical music—it’s like walking into a party, and everyone’s sipping on energy drinks while you’re still trying to figure out the difference between a sonata and a symphony.
“As soon as they get carried away, everything changes,” she adds. It’s a bit like trying to get someone to try brussels sprouts; there’s always an initial “yuck,” but once they actually give it a shot, they’re often pleasantly surprised. “The wonderful world behind classical music has become my life!” she insists. And here’s the kicker: she’s convinced that once you peel back the layers, you’ll find a treasure trove of emotions and stories, just waiting to be discovered. It’s apparently more dramatic than your average Netflix series!
Linda, but how does a girl of her age begin her journey into the world of classical music?
“My love for music started through my sister, who has always been my greatest inspiration,” Linda shares with a bright smile. “It was thanks to her that I found my way into music. Initially, I learned from her teacher, Michela Tintoni, before moving on to classical dance… That experience fundamentally changed everything for me.” (smiles, ed.)
At just twenty-two years old, Linda Guglielmi Salis exhibits an unquenchable passion for music and the violin, attributes that are complemented by her remarkable talent, ironclad determination, and unwavering commitment. These qualities have propelled her to perform on stages across the globe. Originally from Bologna and currently residing in Lugano to attend the prestigious Conservatory of Italian Switzerland, Linda will grace the historic complex of the Seven Churches this Friday for a highly anticipated concert-event. This performance is part of a collaboration with the ‘Knowing Music’ association and follows a guided tour with the esteemed club, The Cloister at the Compagnia dei Lombardi, known for its rich history as one of the oldest institutions in Bologna, tracing back to the mid-twelfth century. Participants are advised to convene in front of the church of Santo Stefano at 3:30 PM; prior membership in the club is required to join. Linda will delight the audience with a violin generously donated by the Monzino Foundation of Milan, as she notes, “High-quality musical instruments come with a substantial price tag.”
We were discussing her early foray into the world of music…
“I began taking lessons around the age of 10 and instantly fell in love with playing. I would retreat to my room for hours, practicing diligently day in and day out. Following that, I embarked on a transformative journey at the Conservatory here in Bologna, an enriching experience that laid the foundation for my further studies in Switzerland.”
Has Bologna played a significant role in your musical development?
“Absolutely! Bologna is truly a vibrant musical city. With its renowned Comunale theatre and various orchestral and chamber music groups, as well as numerous masterclasses, the opportunities for young musicians are abundant.”
What motivated your decision to pursue studies abroad? Is this often deemed a necessary step for budding musicians?
“Indeed, I strongly believe that gaining experiences outside Italy holds immense value. The Conservatory I currently attend boasts a stellar reputation with exceptional violin pedagogy, led by remarkable instructors like Klaidi Sahatçi. That said, I aspire to return to Bologna once my studies are complete; it’s my favorite city, and living beneath the Two Towers will always be a priority for me.”
What kind of repertoire captivates you the most?
“In contrast to many classical musicians who may be somewhat insular, I find great joy in exploring different musical genres. I think it’s incredibly stimulating. My interests extend beyond classical music to include modern artists and even pop influences. I’m currently collaborating with several singers, and we have exciting projects lined up for the future.”
Is there a perception that young people’s interest in classical music is waning?
“One of my primary goals is to encourage my generation to delve deeper into classical music and, crucially, to engage with musical instruments.”
Is disaffection with classical music really a concern among young audiences?
“I believe what’s most needed is to help young people recognize the beautiful world that classical music encompasses, which has now become my entire life. It brings me immense joy. Many of my peers harbor misconceptions about classical music; they simply lack information and exposure. However, I’ve noticed that once they allow themselves to be swept away by the music, their perceptions shift dramatically. Through my own musical journey, I hope to illuminate aspects of classical music that often go unnoticed at first glance, yet evoke profound emotions.”
Step for aspiring musicians?
“I’ve always believed that to reach the highest level in any field, one must be willing to step outside their comfort zone. Studying in Switzerland was a conscious choice; I wanted to absorb different perspectives and techniques offered by world-class instructors. It’s like going to the Olympics of classical music—a chance to refine my skills among the best,” Linda explains, her enthusiasm palpable.
What do you envision for the future of classical music, especially in relation to younger audiences?
“I see a bright future!” she exclaims. “Classical music is often pigeonholed as something only for the elite, but I believe it’s universal. It’s about finding ways to connect it with everyone’s experiences. Collaborating with different genres and artists will help bridge that gap. I want to show my generation that classical music isn’t a dusty museum piece; it’s alive, evolving, and incredibly relevant,” she emphasizes with conviction.
As our conversation draws to a close, it’s evident that Linda Guglielmi Salis is not just a talented violinist; she’s a passionate advocate for making classical music accessible and enjoyable for all. With her infectious energy and commitment to her craft, she’s poised to not only influence her generation but perhaps even reshape the future landscape of classical music itself. Whether she’s charming audiences at historic venues or collaborating with eclectic artists, one thing is clear: Linda is on a mission to ensure that classical music resonates with hearts both young and old. So, keep your ears open and your hearts ready; the symphony of passion and modernity is just beginning!
