Leonardo De Marchi

Leonardo De Marchi is an Italian classical guitarist recognized for his deep engagement with both early 19th-century traditional repertoire and contemporary avant-garde guitar music. He has a particular focus on the rediscovery and promotion of the ten-string guitar, exploring its unique sonic possibilities and commissioning new repertoire. De Marchi is also a musicologist and educator, holding seminars on contemporary guitar literature and authoring scholarly works, including a book about the ten-string guitar's new horizons and articles on significant 20th-century guitar composers.

Graduated cum laude from the conservatories of Venice, Novara, and Pavia, De Marchi has won several prestigious competitions and collaborated extensively in chamber music settings. His recording catalog spans from classical masters like Bach and Haydn to modern composers such as Bruno Maderna. He also co-founded the avant-garde ensemble Codec, focusing on acoustic and electronic experimental music. Known for his versatility and advocacy for rare guitar repertoire, he performs regularly, including projects with clarinetists and vocalists, highlighting his commitment to expanding the guitar’s contemporary and historical presence.

Genres