Country

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Canada

Genre

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Film

 

 

Opera

 

 

Vocal

 

Roberto Occhipinti is a renowned Canadian bassist, composer, and producer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born in Toronto, Canada, on August 20, 1965, Occhipinti grew up in a family of musicians. His father, Tony Occhipinti, was a jazz guitarist, and his mother, Maria Pia De Vito, was a jazz singer. As a child, Roberto was exposed to a wide range of musical genres, including jazz, classical, and world music, which helped shape his musical sensibilities. Occhipinti began playing the bass at the age of 13 and quickly developed a passion for the instrument. He studied music at York University in Toronto, where he honed his skills as a bassist and composer. After graduating, he began performing with various jazz and world music ensembles in Toronto, including the Juno Award-winning band NOJO (Neufeld-Occhipinti Jazz Orchestra). In the early 1990s, Occhipinti began to explore his Italian heritage through music. He formed the group Sicilian Jazz Project, which blended traditional Sicilian folk music with jazz and world music influences. The group released their debut album, "Sicilian Jazz Project," in 1998, which received critical acclaim and helped establish Occhipinti as a leading figure in the world music scene. In addition to his work with Sicilian Jazz Project, Occhipinti has collaborated with a wide range of artists and ensembles, including jazz pianist Hilario Duran, classical guitarist Liona Boyd, and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. He has also composed music for film and television, including the award-winning documentary "The Corporation." One of Occhipinti's most notable achievements was his collaboration with the legendary jazz pianist and composer, Herbie Hancock. In 2005, Occhipinti was invited to participate in the "Directions in Music" project, which brought together a group of young musicians to perform with Hancock. The project culminated in a live performance at the Hollywood Bowl, which was later released as a live album. Occhipinti has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. In 2009, he won a Juno Award for his album "Yemaya," which blended jazz and Afro-Cuban influences. He has also been nominated for several other Juno Awards, including "Best Contemporary Jazz Album" and "Best World Music Album." In addition to his work as a performer and composer, Occhipinti is also a respected music educator. He has taught at several institutions, including the University of Toronto and Humber College, and has conducted workshops and masterclasses around the world. Overall, Roberto Occhipinti has made significant contributions to the world of classical music through his innovative compositions and collaborations. His ability to blend diverse musical influences has helped him create a unique sound that has resonated with audiences around the world. As he continues to push the boundaries of classical music, it is clear that Occhipinti will remain a leading figure in the industry for years to come.

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