About Ilario Ferrari
Ilario is a versatile pianist, singer, composer, and creative collaborator whose work spans contemporary jazz, cinematic storytelling, and cross-genre exploration. Known for his lyrical touch and imaginative approach, Ilario’s music combines emotional depth with technical precision, shaped by a background in classical training and a passion for improvisation.
His latest album Above The Clouds (2024) received critical acclaim from All About Jazz, Jazz Views, Tinnitist, and airplay on Jazz FM, BBC Radio 3, and international stations. The album showcases his dynamic trio with Charlie Pyne and Katie Patterson and features a blend of original compositions and rich ensemble textures. A vinyl release is set for June 2025, supported by a UK tour of independent record stores and intimate venues.
As a collaborator, Ilario regularly works with a diverse network of artists including Grammy-nominated vocalist Chiara Stroia, Cuban violinist Omar Puente, and trumpeter Henry Spencer, with whom he recorded a special re-release of the title track Above The Clouds. He also creates live and recorded projects blending spoken word, animation, and jazz, including a recent video collaboration with Randolph Matthews.
Ilario curates a monthly series— Jazz at St John’s—bringing high-quality, themed duo performances to local venues and building community through music. His work has been supported by Help Musicians UK and World Heart Beat, where he premiered his album with a children’s choir and string quartet.
Alongside his performance career, Ilario is a dedicated educator, mentoring young musicians in piano, composition, and improvisation. His teaching focuses on creative confidence, emotional storytelling, and musical structure.
Drawing inspiration from jazz greats, European classical traditions as well as Rock and soul, Ilario continues to shape a vibrant and personal sound world—rooted in collaboration, curiosity, and a love for connecting through music.