COMPOSER FOR FILM, TV & GAMES
Bookaholic
Interview with the members of Marmor
ANTONIO TEOLI
Musician, Arranger, and Orchestrator
Antonio Teoli is one of the key figures in the *Marmor* project. He contributed not only as a musician but also as an orchestrator and arranger. His extensive experience in orchestrating and arranging music for games in Brazil led to arrangements worthy of film scores for the "Alma Celta" music.
The Celtic atmosphere, with string arrangements and symphonic orchestras featured on the album accompanying the book, is the work of Antonio Teoli's orchestrating mind. He was involved in the production from the beginning and also participated as a guitarist within the project, performing live shows and creating arrangements for other musicians.
The conceptual album that accompanies the book bears the signature of Antonio Teoli, alongside other national and international artists. Among them are Brazilian names that are highly respected within the global heavy metal community.
Now, you can check out an exclusive interview with the musician, where he helps *Geração Bookaholic* readers better understand this multifaceted project, rich in influences, genres, and artistic styles, all encompassed in one grand project: *Marmor*.
Interviewer: Well, let's dive into the topic of "Alma Celta," a project that involved so many national and international artists across various fields. How was it to participate in this project not only as a musician but also as its orchestrator?
Antonio Teoli: It's fantastic, especially because it’s such a broad project in terms of areas of expertise. For me, orchestration is nothing more than colors, musical intentions, ideas, and flourishes that make the music more complete as a whole. In a way, through orchestration, I tried to reflect the work done by each professional from the different fields involved in this project.
Interviewer: Your extensive experience as an orchestrator and arranger of music for games in Brazil helped shape the arrangements for the music in "Alma Celta." When we listen to the CD, we are transported to medieval games, among other themes. How did this influence come about? Did you approach it with the RPG aspect of the project in mind, or is this something else?
Antonio Teoli: Modern games have always been heavily influenced by references from traditional RPGs, so there's a natural identity connection between these areas. The reference is inherent, and on one hand, it's quite enjoyable because it establishes that connection with the worlds you mentioned.
Interviewer: Was it enjoyable to incorporate Celtic culture into the melodies and arrangements of the music? How was it to produce the CD *Alma Celta*?
Antonio Teoli: The production overall was very enjoyable and rewarding. While it came with its challenges due to having so many creative professionals involved, I learned a lot during these years in terms of arrangement and the creative core. Moreira, Xei (Aleksei), and I frequently had huge ideas during brainstorming sessions. It’s a unique project in Brazil, and I hold it in high regard.
Interviewer: How was it working with such skilled and renowned musicians in Brazil, combining music and games, areas you were already familiar with, and also literature? How did you view the project when it was first presented?
Antonio Teoli: Moreira invited me to the project in its early stages, when there was just the concept and some musical sketches. I was already following Moreira's work and was thrilled when I received his email inviting me to join. From a creative perspective, the project naturally had its challenges, but since I've been composing for games for a long time and the inputs come from various areas, I was well-prepared for the challenge.
About the concept of the album, there was a concern to maintain a unique language for the entire project, especially considering the historical period in which the story takes place. There were moments when I wanted to add some electronic instruments, but they would end up clashing with the universe and concept of the project. So, yes, there is a strong focus on maintaining a coherent language that aligns with the project's conceptual identity.
Interviewer: Teoli, it’s been a great pleasure discussing *Marmor* and *Alma Celta* with you. Please leave a message for the readers of both the book and Geração Bookaholic!
Antonio Teoli: Thank you so much for the opportunity! I invite everyone to explore the *Marmor* project, as it is truly unique in Brazil. We have a Facebook page, @marmorofficial, where you can keep up with the latest updates on the project, as well as our ongoing crowdfunding campaign: [http://kickante.com.br/espadachimdecarvao]
For those interested in learning more about my work as a composer and game sound designer, you can visit my Facebook page @antonioteoliofficial and my website [www.antonioteoli.com](http://www.antonioteoli.com). A big hug to everyone!