What is the best thing that I love about my work? As a pianist and composer, I love the fact that I can transform emotions into music and enhance even the ugliest things in life. I love the power of music and how it touches each person differently.
What is my idea of happiness? To me happiness is living in the moment, not regretting the past and not being worried about the future. Happiness is about who you are and not what you own. Carpe diem.
What is my greatest fear? My greatest fear is illness. Not being able to enjoy life. Dying
What is the trait that I most deplore in myself? My anxiety. It is truly exhausting!
Which living persons in my profession do i most admire? Khatia Buniatishvili classical pianist, Keith Jarret jazz pianist, Itzak Perlman classical violonist, Christian McBride double bass jazz player, Sting bassist and pop singer …
What is my greatest extravagance? Adventure, going on vacation with a someone I’ve never met.
On what occasion would I lie? I would lie to protect someone. If the purpose is noble, I’m quite comfortable doing it. I don’t lie usually. I think it is destructive, although I also believe that some things should be left unsaid. I always say « If you don’t want to know the answer, don’t ask the question »
What is the thing that I dislike the most in my work? I think it’s very practical. The complexity for structuring projects in the « non artistic way » speaking. Fortunately, I am surrounded by wonderful persons who help with that aspect.
When and where was I the happiest, in my work? I think it was the « Vita Bellevil’ Festival » in Paris last summer. We created a jazz festival with my friends of the Label Vita Productions. It’s a free festival in a park in the center of Paris. All types of people attended, young people, families, jazz lovers, even people who never listened to this sort of music, French people, tourists etc. Everyone was there peacefully, coexisting, brought together by the music.
It was just after the restrictive measures of Covid, so it was a magical time…. The first concerts after the re-opening…
If I could, what would I change about myself? I would like to change my tendency of being excessive.
What is my greatest achievement in work?
I think it’s my 2 currents projects
« La Furie, histoires d’héroïnes » by Rimendo.
Although the band existed for 10 over years and created 2 projects, it was the 1st time that I composed everything. Sarah Olivier wrote all the texts.
« Quartier Japy », my first piano solo project about my neighborhood’s life.
Where would I most like to live?
Where I am! In Paris, France. It’ s a cosmopolitan city, I live in the 11th arrondissement. For me, it’s a cultural exception, everyone lives together quite peacefully even though we have been victims of the terrorists’ attacks. I love my city even if it’s necessary to leave it for a while once a year for mental health! Hahah
What is my most treasured possession?
If think it’s my piano. My grandfather bought it for my dad when he was a kid. He never really used it, but I do! It is a simple but strong piano, with it can practice, give piano lessons and for entertaining my guests when I host parties at home.
What is my most marked characteristic?
I think it’s my socials abilities. I can speak to everyone, everywhere, speaking the same language or not!
What is my most inspirational location, in my city?
My street and its people. Literally downstairs! It’s not especially beautiful
but the people are inspiring. I hang out with my neighbors in my street, and I like it.
It was the inspiration behind my solo project piano solo project « Quartier Japy ». People inspire me more than a specific location.
What is my favorite place to eat and drink, in my city?
Exactly where I am writing now! At the « Leopard » in Paris 11th.
This place is quite cheap with good food and drinks. The staff is amazing, it’s like a living room for many people. Big up to Julien, Ariane and Benoît!
What books influenced my life and how?
When I was in my 20’s I literally consumed a good part of « Les Rougon-Macquart » by Emile Zola. It’s a human comedy. I think it influenced my life by the way I observe people. I often imagine them as characters of Zola’s books. It influences me now, because I think every day people are maybe the most interesting for my creativity.
I can also speak about Boris Vian « l’Ecume des jours » and many of his poems. He is a mastermind to me. His poetic way of describing, and telling stories inspires me every day.
You Only Die Once. What music would I listen on my last day?
Ravel. His music appeases me deeply. And if death is coming, I guess you need this feeling!
Who is my hero or heroine in fiction?
I have none. I guess I live too much in reality!
Who are my heroes and heroines in real life?
My parents, they are the strongest people I know, and they accomplished a lot by keeping true human values. Each one in a very different and complementary way.
Which movie would i recommend to see once in a lifetime?
‘Amen’ by Costa-Gavras . The style of filming is impressive. Suggesting the horror of the 2de world war, but never « showing » it. For the complexity of the characters.
What role play stories in my life and work?
Stories play a central role of my way of composing. I’m always thinking
about the story of others, or a story I invented and I’m writing about the music around it.
The notes are my words, I guess.
What do the words ‘You are the storyteller of your own life’ to me?
Do not wait for destiny, create and provoke it. Move and meet people, travel all over the world, be curious and do not wait someone come knocking at your door for changing your life.
Just do it yourself. Take the outstretched hand life is giving you, be aware enough to see it.
Who is my greatest fan, sponsor, partner in crime?
My best partners in crime are definitely the members of my band Rimendo. Always there from the beginning in the hardest moments and the best moments.
And those latest years Heloïse Chabert, the administrator of Vita Productions and my manager who helps me to give birth to all my projects !
Which people or companies would I like to work with in 2022?
I would like to work with Jean Lamoot, amazing musical director and sound engineer. I really think that he gives something more to music, he’s got a real vision, he’s got a true vision.
What project, in 2022, am I looking forward to work on?
• Rimendo « La Furie, histoires d’héroïnes »; is a project about historically heroic women, their fights, lots of singing and jazz! A breathless project where we find characters with epic stories. Sampat Pal du gang des Saris roses (Inde), Rosa Parks (USA) or Las Patronas (Mexique). All thrilling stories told through the voice of
Sarah Olivier.
• Piano Solo « Quartier Japy » Music about the people in my neighborhood. A musical immersion in Paris 11th …
• Moko La B ; a young rapper with who I collaborate. At the end of 2022 he will release his 1st EP on which I composed some tunes. It’s a real encounter and a friendship.
Where can you see me or my work in 2022?
You can follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Youtube
with my name and you can also follow my band Rimendo on the social network.
A disk is coming in 2023 so stay tuned !
What do the words “Passion Never Retires” mean to me?
Even if you want to stop you can’t. Something deep inside you keeps you moving forward.
Which creative professionals should Peter invite to tell their story?
Lou Tavano, singer, writer and composer
Sarah Olivier, singer, writer and composer
Chrystelle Alour, singer, writer and composer
Alex Freiman, guitarist, singer and composer
Julien Alour, trumpetist and composer
Robby Marshall, saxophonist, clarinetist and composer
Fabienne Mahé, film director and producer
Léo Levy-La jeunesse, visual artist
Agnes Bihl, singer and writer
Christian Mamoun, photographer
How can you contact me?
Instagram or Facebook
The Heroine's Journey 