INTERVIEW | 2022.07.08
Vol. 2
Inspired by the Tarot.
A Classical Nobleman Playing the Piano
【Sergio Baietta】
We spoke with Sergio Baietta, an internationally acclaimed musician who describes tarot cards as “works of art that become friends in life,” and whose concerts are based on piano music that reflects the worldview expressed by the cards.
1. About your relationship with Tarot
— You consider tarot to be one of your “passions” along with the piano. When and how did you first encounter tarot?
When I first encountered the Tarot about 14 years ago, I had a negative image of the predictive elements of the future.
Later, I had the opportunity to attend a seminar by the film director Alejandro Jodorowsky, and that image was completely overturned.
I was shocked to learn that the Tarot can be used to help us reach our subconscious and align ourselves with our true selves, and from there I was hooked and began to expand my knowledge of the Tarot.
— How do you use the Tarot yourself daily?
When I wake up in the morning, I ask the Major Arcana cards how I should spend my day.
The cards I draw give me a bird’s eye view of my daily life, for example, “I think I should keep a neutral mind and not let my emotions get the better of me.”
For example, when the card “13 Reaper” comes up, I try something completely different from what I usually do.
I use the cards daily as if asking myself how I feel.
— In Japan, tarot cards are generally used for divination, but the Tokyo Tarot Museum considers tarot cards as a tool for “dialogue with the self”.
What is your view on this?
We are in complete agreement that tarot cards are not a tool for predicting the future, but a tool for asking questions to one’s inner self.
It is a tool for people who want to make the future better with their own hands, rather than having someone else decide the answers for them.
2. Tarot in Italy
— How are tarot cards accepted in Italy?
I think it is about a 50/50 split between those who are familiar with tarot as a form of fortune-telling and those who use it for self-analysis and spiritual growth.
Recently, more and more people around me, especially creative people, are starting to use tarot.
They seem to be surprised and amused by the feeling that their mind is being projected onto the Tarot.
3. Tarot & Piano Concert
About “il suono dei tarocchi – The Sound of Tarot
— What inspired you to start the Tarot & Piano Concerts?
I wanted to share the excitement I felt when I discovered the true charm of the Tarot with many more people.
Tarot is not only about predicting the future but also about accessing the deepest part of your heart.
I hope that more and more people will use tarot as a tool to improve their lives, and this concert has become my lifework.
— How is the Tarot used in the concert?
First of all, I play several pieces inspired by the Major Arcana of the Tarot, which are original compositions that I created as if I were transferring the energy of each card.
Then I ask one person chosen from the audience to draw three cards, and I improvise and play an arrangement based on that.
Usually, tarot readings convey the results in words, but in my case, I deliver the message on the piano.
The music I play is dedicated as a soundtrack to the life of the person who drew the cards, but it is also a message to everyone present.
I hope that they feel the coincidence of being there, and the once-in-a-lifetime chance to be a part of this event.
How do you feel about the audience’s reaction, Sergio?
Through the music, I have had a variety of reactions, such as new insights, tears, laughter, and so on, but the common denominator is that everyone is very surprised.
I feel that the Tarot is a mirror of the subconscious mind, the depths of the mind of which we are unaware.
— I have never experienced such a sensation as that of the weight of each card being conveyed directly to me, and the images spreading out as images, as I sat in the audience with my eyes closed and listened to the piano. I look forward to the further development of this fusion of tarot and music.
Finally, please tell us about your plans.
I would like to continue to be a bridge between the Tarot and the depths of the heart through music for people around the world.
— Let’s take a soul journey together!
*Alejandro Jodorowsky.
A versatile Chilean filmmaker, writer, director, and poet, he is also an expert in tarot readings.
His filmography includes “El Topo” and “The Holy Mountain.
PROFILE
- Sergio Baietta
Pianist from Verona.
He has performed extensively in Europe and is highly acclaimed in many countries.
He is regarded as a genius with a wide repertoire that includes classical music from the Baroque to the Romantic era and jazz and film music.
He has performed with the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra in Japan and regularly performs throughout the country.
He is also active as a conductor and composer.