Pianist jumps from screen into reality

A 2015 New Zealand made musical documentary entitled Crossing Rachmaninoff depicted an aspiring young Italian called Flavio Villani whose dream was to become a concert pianist. In brief, it is a wonderful film about his journey and incredible dedication to take music as his career.

Flavio is invited to Italy to perform one of the greatest Rachmaninoff piano concertos with an orchestra, a portrait of Italian-born Auckland concert pianist Flavio Villani as he returns like the prodigal son to Italy for his concert debut. It’s the most exciting night of his life and confirms his arrival as a concert pianist.

Lisa Uphoff of Black Sheep Farm at Langs Beach saw the film, loved it, and was really taken by the story.

“I went to a concert of his in Auckland, met him and asked if he would come to Waipu to perform, and he said yes!” says a surprised Lisa. “ I'm very excited to have Flavio come to perform in our home, and think he is such a great inspiration especially for young people interested in music. We hope he will be a great inspiration for those that come to see him.”

Permission has been given by the director of the documentary to show some of the movie highlights and then Flavio will perform afterwards.

As encouragement to young music students, 10 free tickets are being offered to music students under 16.

The concert programme will include highlights from the Film Crossing Rachmaninoff. Flavio Villani will then perform works by Mozart, Brahms, Chopin, followed by light refreshments and an opportunity to meet Flavio.

INSPIRING: Flavio Villani will play to an intimate audience in Waipu next month.