Fabio Machiavelli (I)

He studied percussion instruments with Jonathan Faralli and composition with Giovanni Verrando, Daniele Ghisi, Andrea Agostini, Claudio Vaira, Fabio De Sanctis De Benedictis, and others. He continued his studies at the Chigiana Academy in Siena with Salvatore Sciarrino, receiving a Diploma of Merit in 2024. Currently, he is a doctoral researcher at the Conservatory of Mantua. Machiavelli has developed a musical language that blends elements of contemporary classical music, experimental electronics, and practices of new lutherie. His composition is based on creating customized instruments designed to meet specific sound requirements. An emblematic example is the project Machines Inside Me, presented at the Venice Biennale Music and later at the Triennale di Milano. In this work, he developed three self-built electromechanical instruments, one of which is fully automated, to explore new sonic and performative possibilities. His practice aligns with the movement of new lutherie, which promotes the customization of musical instruments through the use of electronic and analog components. Machiavelli has stated that he prefers to build instruments that respond to his compositional needs rather than adapting existing ones. This approach allows him to achieve more precise control over the sound and to explore uncharted sonic territories. Besides composition, Machiavelli has collaborated with contemporary music ensembles such as Endakdenz and has participated in international festivals like La Biennale di Venezia, Warsaw Autumn, and Darmstadt Ferienkurse für Neue Musik. His music has been performed by groups such as Input Duo, Neko3, and Divertimento Ensemble, and his works are published by SZ Sugar publishing house.