Heralded for his “smashingly perfect technique” (Folha de Londrina) and “impressive musical interpretation” (Estado de São Paulo), Brazilian pianist Marcelo Cesena has captivated audiences all over the world.  Performances in Brazil, Italy, Bosnia, France, and the United States have showcased Mr. Cesena’s talents and garnered praise from fellow musicians.  Aylton Escobar, Brazilian Director and Composer, has called Cesena a “luminous talent with a gift of noble character that appeals to the audience.”  Alexander Korsantia, winner of the Rubenstein Competition has said, “His playing is very bright, open-minded and colorful.”

Cesena’s early musical training began at the Conservatorio Musical de Santana, Brazil.  His collegiate musical education has included study at the Faculdade Santa Marcelina, Brazil and the Faculdade Mozarteum, Brazil.  He earned  his Master’s degree in  Piano Performance from Arizona State University, where he studied with  the Internationally renewed  Caio Pagano.

The talents of Marcelo Cesena have been recognized in numerous competitive events.  His honors include: Two times Winner of the Young Soloists Competition of the Symphonic Orchestra of the State of São Paulo, Brazil; First Place at the 1st Chamber Music Competition of Faculdade Santa Marcelina, Brazil; First Place and Best Bach at the 6th Piano Competition of Araçatuba City, Brazil; and Winner and Firestone Soloist at the Young Soloists Competition of the 10th Music Festival of Londrina, Brazil, where he performed with the Firestone Music Festival Orchestra-Paraná State, Brazil. Cesena has also performed with the São Paulo State Symphony Orchestra and the Orquestra Nova Sinfonieta.

Marcelo Cesena’s passion extends beyond academic and competitive music venues.  He has often given of his talents for the benefit of others, including establishing Musical Therapy Program for a Drug Rehabilitation Center.  He has participated in several benefit performances, raising substantial financial contributions for Brazilian children and also offered performances  services to  fundraisers benefiting  people living with HIV and AIDS in Phoenix, Arizona area.

In addition to his increasingly full performance schedule, Marcelo also writes music for motion pictures.  He currently resides in Los Angeles.