AUTOBIOGRAPHY Italian born Antonio Villano migrated to Australia with his family at the age of 9 years. His upbringing was not without struggle which has formed the foundation of the person he is today, a man of strong faith, compassionate and a definite passion for music. A self taught guitarist and singer. Antonio's love for music was always apparent constantly listening to the old traditional songs his parents played, along with listening to his idols he looked up to. At the young age of 12 he decided to learn how to play guitar. Helped by a close friend who wrote some guitar chords out on a piece of paper. Antonios love of music grew and he learned quite quickly gaining opportunity to play at his youth group gatherings. It was about the age of 14 that he formed a Gospel band with his band with his 2 brothers and 2 close friends as guitarist and backing vocalist. The band was together for 11 years travelling across Adelaide and country areas including Camberra before all the members, now older, took on other responsibilities. Antonio, a father of 3 sons then took on the position of Youth Minister for a period of time and coupled with his musical experience, it wasn’t long until those skills were called upon as a Music Director and Choir leader for very prominent church organizations. Years later Antonio was encouraged by his friend and music producer Sean Timms, to follow his dream of becoming a contemporary singer. It was then that he auditioned for a local Adelaide singing competition “Search for a Singer” run by well known and respected professional singer and talent promoter Kate Lara. Kate very quickly recognised Antonio’s special gift, not only as a performer but also a mentor for the younger performers. Search for a Singer held workshops and weekend music retreats followed by a Show Case Night to launch the performers in front of Industry Leaders. Antonio, never one to refuse a challenge went straight to work, listening to some Pavarotti and Phantom of the Opera, practising over and over in his office, and soon rang his friend Sean Timms and booked a time in his recording studio to lay down his first track “Nessun Dorma” “If you are going to attempt a challenge go all out” was his attitude! It was after hearing the extraordinary recording of this Untrained/ Unknown that Kate Lara was confident to take on the challenge of assisting Antonio in achieving his new found Classical singing career. The second person to receive a copy of Nessun Dorma was Peter Goers who very promptly organised a live on air interview and performance. Interests in Antonio and booking enquiries started coming in for The Elder Park Christmas Carols, The Australian Tour Down Under, The Adelaide Carnivale, Bridal Expo’s, Weddings, Fashion Parades, Italian Festivals and Charity events. It was at a particular Charity event that a special duet was requested, so Antonio teamed up vocally with Kate Lara to deliver a powerful and emotionally charged rendition of “The Prayer”. Antonio continues his musical pursuits and passion for sharing beautiful music bringing joy to many via this “God given Gift!” and donates much of his time to community and charity events. The rest is history in the making!
Experience: - Musical Director |
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