Born in 1971, LEONARDO CIAMPA is acknowledged as one of the most gifted and versatile musicians of his generation. He is a composer, organist, author, pianist, and vocal coach/accompanist and has received high praise in each of those areas.
Ciampa’s compositions, which are considered “Neoromantic”, include The Annunciation Op. 203 (cantata for chorus, soloists, and strings); Suite Siciliana Op. 145 (for two violins, piano and orchestra), commissioned by the Pro Arte Chamber Orchestra of Boston to open their 25th anniversary season; four Organ Symphonies, a concerto for piano and organ; a piano quintet; and numerous sacred works. His works are published exclusively by CIC (compositorum.com).
As an organ recitalist, Ciampa has made seven European tours encompassing Italy, Austria, and Germany. He is particularly admired in Italy, where he has played in numerous international festivals. In February of 2008 Ciampa was named Director of Music and Liturgy of St. Mary & St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Charlestown (Boston). The historic church by Keely contains an important organ by Woodberry & Harris (1893). Previous church positions included Director of Music at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Brookline, MA (2001-2007) and at the First Baptist Church in Jamaica Plain (Boston) (1989-2001). At the latter he played the renowned 1859 E. & G. G. Hook organ (destroyed by fire in 2005), on which Ciampa recorded two CDs for AFKA records, No Room at the Inn and No Room at the Inn, Volume II. A third CD, Stained Glass, also on AFKA, will be released in 2009.
As a piano recitalist, Ciampa is known for his warm sound and colorful style reminiscent of the Golden Age of Pianists. He is especially noted for his interpretations of Chopin. Ciampa collaborates regularly with the Lavazza Chamber Ensemble (lavazzachamberensemble.org).
An avid writer, Ciampa’s books include The Twilight of Belcanto and Don Lorenzo Perosi. He also writes the popular blog, “Faultbook” (faultbook.blogspot.com).