Ivan Ronda - Enrico Pasini: Organ Works (Three Sonatas, Cantabiles, Trittico, Suite in stile antico) (2023)

Enrico Pasini is a leading light in the field of Italian organ. His compositions, permeated with a sense of grace and luminosity, act as aural reflections on life’s tapestry. From the initial chords of his pieces, be they preludes, lyrical songs, or fantasies, one discerns that they stem from deep-seated inspiration rather than mere technique. His captivating Cantabiles convey tales, evoking the impressionistic nuances reminiscent of Debussy. His most renowned piece, “For You”, enjoys global recognition and is performed in diverse adaptations. As with Bach’s compositions, when both music and narrative spring forth from the soul, they can take on myriad forms and rhythms, bound as they are for timelessness. Pasini’s musical lexicon, while straightforward, is punctuated with precision, fusing neo-romantic contours with elements of true contemporaneity. This amalgamation is characterised by an authentic and noble identity, ever distinct. In the context of Mozart, it has been observed that his intuitive compositions stand alone, for none but he could craft in such a manner, leaving an enduring legacy in the musical annals.
Ivan Ronda

Dedicating my entire life to music and translating life itself into musical notes is what I have always strived to do; this is the essence of my Cantabili and of all my works. Enrico Pasini

Enrico Pasini was born on August 8, 1935, in Rome. His foray into the musical realm commenced at the tender age of six. By the age of eight, his prodigious talents were recognised, leading to his enrolment as an exceptional pupil at the esteemed “S. Cecilia” Conservatory, under the discerning guidance of Professor Alfredo De Ninno. His academic sojourn saw him acquire qualifications in Organ, Piano, and Composition, mentored by luminaries such as Marcella Palazzi, Rina Rossi, Alfredo De Ninno, Ferdinando Ferdinandi, Armando Renzi, Father Alberto Santini, Father Egidio Circelli, and the illustrious Fernando Germani.
Pasini further refined his craft by attending Advanced Courses at the venerated Chigiana Musical Academy located in Siena. During his formative years, he dabbled in an array of musical genres, from the lilting cadences of light music to the improvisational dynamics of jazz. His talents led to collaborations with eminent record establishments, including RCA and Fono Roma, whilst performing alongside the prestigious Santa Cecilia Orchestra.
Significant strides in his musical journey were attributed to fortuitous interactions with Maestros Luciano Chailly and Alberico Vitalini. Alongside his wife, he forged the Pasini-Pennini Piano Duo, with a specialist focus on the repertoire tailored for four hands and dual pianos. His prowess won him the coveted position of Principal Organ Instructor at the “Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina” Conservatory in Cagliari. An embodiment of his passion was the inception of the musical and cultural association “Il Cromorno,” which he helmed for three decades, championing the cause of organ music. His tenure as the titular Organist witnessed the conception of avant-garde events, namely the “Artists’ Mass” and the “International Organ Festival.”
His artistry found resonance beyond national confines, as he performed across various European territories, frequently in the esteemed company of his progeny, the violist Giovanni and flutist Daniele. Collaborative ventures included alliances with the Lyric Theatre of Cagliari, Rai, and Vatican Radio, culminating in a plethora of audio and video recordings, along with the curation of innovative radio broadcasts. His entrepreneurial spirit led to the establishment of two private musical institutions. His compositions, encompassing organ symphonies and other instrumental pieces, found global acclaim. The “Cantabiles,” crafted in his twilight years, garnered particular adulation.
Pasini’s accomplishments were perennially dedicated to his cherished mentor, Armando Renzi, under whose aegis he imbibed the finesse of composition and an unyielding passion for music. He remained an unwavering beacon for aspiring musical prodigies, ardently advocating for classical music’s enduring legacy. Alas, Enrico Pasini’s earthly symphony culminated in his cherished Cagliari on the 10th of April, 2022.