Totemgami brings together two distinct Italian musicians. Catania-based Tonino Miano is a pianist, composer, improvisor, teacher, synth enthusiast, visual artist, and author of the book Non-Tonal Technical Studies for Piano, who describes himself as one with an analytical mind (he holds a degree in physics) who pairs “logical progressions for his improvisation”. He leads a jazz trio with double bass player Riccardo Grosso and drummer Andrea Melani. Flutist Emilio Galante is also an educator (he teaches at the Music Conservatory in Trento). He performs mostly contemporary music, including his own compositions, and collaborates with both classical and jazz musicians. He also enjoys experimenting with live electronics to expand the sonic palette of his flute. He led a Third Stream Quartet that re-read classical compositions by Bach, Mozart, Debussy, Stravinsky, Bartok, and De Falla, alongside jazz pieces by Chick Corea and Hubert Laws.
Totemgami was born during a spontaneous studio recording session held at Studiotape in Catania in June 2025. Galante and Miano had never played together before, and played this session without any prior verbal or written communication, embarking on a free-improvised sonic journey that relies on a conversational interplay.
The twelve short pieces sound like thoughtful, cerebral conversations—sometimes even arguments (but always respectful and polite ones)—between two experienced musicians who share insights, test hypotheses, and articulate possible aesthetics. They dare to experiment more with abstract sounds as this session progresses.
Emilio Galante / Tonino Miano – Totemgami (Self-Released, 2025)
