Sfera Publishing was an idea that I realised during the coronavirus pandemic of 2020. I had created a string orchestra arrangement of Verdi’s Nabucco Overture a few years ago for National Youth String Orchestra, and during the lockdown I spent time arranging more of Verdi’s music. At the advice of friends and family, who thought that the arrangements could be of interest for orchestras looking for new repertoire ideas, I decided to set up my own publishing company. I have conducted and played all of these works many times and know the music intimately, and I have tried to create arrangements that are satisfying to play and faithful to the composers intentions.
Coming from a family of string players, I unsurprisingly began my professional life as a violinist following studies at the Royal Northern College of Music and Indiana University. I then went on to study conducting at St Petersburg State Conservatoire whilst playing in the 1st violin section of the Danish National Radio Symphony Orchestra before taking the big decision to pursue a career in conducting. As a conductor I have had the honour of working with some of the world’s greatest orchestras and opera companies, as well as collaborating with great composers, soloists and singers. I am also a passionate advocate for music education and am Music Director of the National Youth String Orchestra of Great Britain.
For more information please go to www.damianiorio.com
Damian Iorio
