Girovagabondo by Maja Elliott & Marco Giaccaria

Recorded and mixed by Marco Giaccaria in Grugliasco, Italy, between 1999 and 2021.

“Medieval castles wrapped in a shroud of clouds, majestic Torino with its Savoy palaces, buskers, jugglers and storytellers weaving stories as long and free flowing as the river Po... All this became possible after Maurizio Marcellino generously invited me to Borgone di Susa and introduced me to Marco. I remember singing Sesame Street in Italian with the late Beppe Finella and Marcella Pischedda! Their Associazone Girovagarte inspired the title of the album. Beppe, a gifted guitarist and composer, prompted me to follow my musical path. Marcella, a true Italian troubadour, performed in street festivals with her Piedmont folk songs and her hurdy gurdy. They introduced me to jugglers Luca and Tina. Touring medieval jousting festivals in Luca’s bus with Ivan, learning italian, busking in piazzas in Tuscany, waking up to the heat of the morning sun on the metal roof were some of the most enjoyable moments of my life. I’m grateful to Federica who invited me to sing on a jazz programme Canal 1 in Genova. Thanks to you all – and to the richness of Piedmont, to the Franco-Italian folklore and to American clown Philip Radici. Special thanks to Franco for his warmth and generosity and for lovely memories of cycling two on a bike from the market with fresh succulent persimmons, ready to burst.” Maja Elliott

"My music is born out of a love of ethnic music, especially traditional gaelic and slavic music, my passion for indian classical music and the synergy between creative and improvised music from the jazz and rock tradition. Listening to these recordings after more than 20 years, these were magical days making music” Marco Giaccaria

"Maja's piano playing has touched me.
She is so expressive, holding notes in fearless
witness to subtle emotions."

~ Anohni (Antony and the Johnsons)

10 To 1 Records