HEERA ALAYA

IN CONVERSATION

“My work with singers is quite straightforward—I listen with my heart.”

MAESTRO DIEGO FIORINI
Pianoforte, IT

March 8th, 2023

Heera Alaya: I transfixed after experiencing consecutive concerts at The Church of San Giovanni [Lucca, Italy], which makes meeting you in person all the more meaningful.Thank you for accommodating me.

Maestro Diego Fiorini, I am glad you enjoyed the concerts. Thank you for coming.

As a pianist, you serve as a crucial support for various singers. Are there any challenges associated with your role?

I began accompanying singers at the age of 18, and I find my work with them to be quite straightforward—I listen with my heart.

Do opera singers rehearse with you before their concerts?

We [opera singers and pianists] typically do not rehearse prior to a performance.

Do opera singers, say, tenors and sopranos ever practice together before a show?

It is quite rare for them to rehearse together.

I wouldn’t have guessed [the absence of rehearsals]. Watching your [pianoforte, soprano and tenor] thoroughness with repertoires and performances of each other is incredible.

When the opera singers take a break, you continue to perform solo. Does this non-stop performance become tiring for you?

Yes, playing the piano can be quite tiring. When I perform solo, I need to embrace the role of the pianist. However, when I accompany singers, I must adopt a more subdued approach—essentially becoming a carpet or curtain, allowing my personality to take a backseat.

You’ve clearly distinguished your roles.

Indeed. Understanding when to take centre stage and when to offer support is crucial.

Do you prefer being a soloist or an accompanist?

I enjoy both roles.

At what age did you begin playing the piano, and why did you choose it as your primary instrument?

I started playing the piano at eight and performed in public by the age of eighteen. My grandfather was a baritone opera singer, so I was exposed to opera music from a young age, which I instantly loved.

decided to pursue piano to kick-start my musical career, initially thinking I might become a singer or a conductor. While I also studied violin and composition, I ultimately remained devoted to my favourite instrument—the piano.

Do you practice the piano on a daily basis?

Yes, I typically practice for about two hours each day, but no more than that.

How many days a week do you perform?

Six to seven days a week.

What does it require to perform almost every day?

Continuous performance demands strong mental discipline.

How do you maintain poise and good posture while playing the piano?

Thank you. I focus on practicing correctly; when I sit with the right posture, everything flows naturally.

Your slim satchel also has an elegant posture.

[Smiles] It holds my music sheets.

Is it necessary for pianists to take extra precautions to protect their hands while engaging in certain activities?

Absolutely. For example, playing tennis can lead to wrist injuries and limit flexibility. Additionally, lifting heavy objects often results in strain.

With a packed schedule, can you carve out time to pursue other interests?

I have many interests but only a little time.

How do you handle audience distractions during a  performance?

Distractions such as ringing phones or children screaming can be quite bothersome. But I am focused; I close my senses and carry on.

As a Lucca native, do you prefer to be stationed in Lucca, or do you also take your piano skills to other cities?

I play [the piano] almost exclusively in Lucca. I have frequently travelled to London, Spain and France to present Puccini’s art.

What does it mean to you to perform at The Church of San Giovanni?

In Italia [Italy, a European country], performing in a church is not unusual. I have also played at The Church of San Giovanni as an organist for various weddings. It feels like the church is my second home, and playing at San Giovanni, where Giacomo Puccini [Italian composer whose renowned works include La bohème, Tosca and Madama Butterfly] was baptised, is special.

President, Farm Sanctuary, USA