Giuseppe Ielasi
Where are you now ?
In Monza, in my apartment, with my wife Jennifer and two kids. Monza is in Lombardia, one of the regions that have been most affected by the virus in the world. We are not allowed to leave our place since four weeks, unless we need to buy food or to go to the pharmacy.
Where would you be ?
Probably in town, commuting between the kids school, my studio and home. Since I’m writing on a Saturday morning, right now we would be heading to the huge city park, or somewhere else outside.
What have you been doing lately ?
Jennifer is teaching online, and the kids have online schooling, plus homework. They are not completely independent on that, so the logistics are not that easy. When possible I try to concentrate on work, mostly mastering for other people (I managed to bring home some equipment at the beginning of the lockdown). I read a bit more than usual and watch more films. I’ve always listened to a lot of music, and I keep doing that. Some workout too.
What are you hearing right now ?
As always, very quiet moments and kids screaming, rapidly alternating.
Are you taking advantage of this containment period to make music?
Making music is a daily practice, so I keep that. But, in such a situation, it also seems very irrelevant. I do more mixing than usual, for a few unfinished projects. And I have more time to practice guitar.
How will the world be after all this?
After a while, probably the same. Most of us, the lucky ones, will forget about this. Unfortunately it won’t be possible for all.
How can we support the music community?
Let’s try to support hospitals, doctors and nurses, unemployed people, old people. Let’s be kind to those who are working right now, to provide us with essential services. Rethinking our community and our social interactions will be the next step.
Five musical recommendations ?
Loren Connors “Red Mars” (Family Vineyard)
Jon Hassell “Last Night The Moon Came Dropping Its Clothes in The Street” (ECM)
Jo Kondo “Sen No Ongaku” (Alm)
Dean Roberts “Not Fire” (Erstwhile)
Toru Takemitsu “Film Music By…” (7Cd, Victor)
One book ?
(fiction) Uwe Johnson’s “Jahrestage”
(non fiction) Morton Feldman “Words on Music” (2 Vol., Musiktexte)
What will you do when you're out?
Stay out, as much as possible.
Links:
www.senufoeditions.com
senufoeditions.bandcamp.com
