Working with Maestro Giuseppe Devastato was a deeply enriching experience. His kindness, generosity, and openness created a truly supportive atmosphere—something I’ve found to be rare, even after decades of studying classical piano. Despite the short time in Vienna, I gained an extraordinary amount of insight. Giuseppe’s musicianship is exceptional. As a teacher, he has a rare ability to immediately identify technical or interpretive issues and offer precise, musical solutions that elevate the performance in real time.

Maestro Devastato is a representative of the Neapolitan piano school, a tradition he introduced in a fascinating lecture during the masterclass. Hearing him perform in concert shortly after, I was struck by how clearly this school’s principles are embodied in his playing. His sound is beautifully vocal, with long melodic lines that project with strength and clarity. His use of portamento and the natural reverberation of the piano creates an astonishingly lyrical quality in his phrasing. Studying with him, even for a short time, has had a lasting impact on the way I approach my playing.