Interview with Andrea Corsellini, Vasco Rossi’s sound engineer

We met him at MIR 2023 and took the opportunity to ask for some advice for those who want to pursue a career in this field. But first, let’s get to know him a bit better.

In the music world, behind every great artist, there is often a team of professionals who help create the unique and engaging sound experience we all love. One of these professionals is Andrea Corsellini, the legendary sound engineer of Vasco Rossi, who has left an indelible mark on the career of the famous Italian rocker.

Who is Andrea Corsellini?

Andrea Corsellini, a sound engineer from Florence, began his career in the 1980s and over time has become one of the most renowned Italian sound engineers. In 2007, he joined Vasco Rossi’s tour, becoming a key member of the team and collaborating with numerous prominent figures in the national music scene over the years.

His Experience with Vasco

Corsellini’s career with Vasco Rossi started in the 1980s when “Blasco” was emerging as one of the most influential and beloved figures in Italian rock. Corsellini became Vasco’s trusted sound engineer, working closely with him to craft the powerful and distinctive sound that defines his live performances and studio recordings.

Their collaboration has delivered some of the most memorable moments in the history of Italian music. Corsellini helped build the energy and intensity that pervades Vasco’s songs, developing a unique sound. He fine-tuned mixing techniques to ensure Vasco’s voice stood out clearly and emotionally above the powerful guitars and rhythm section. He also experimented with sound effects and instrumentation to add depth and dimension to live performances.

Corsellini’s precision and attention to detail ensured that every Vasco concert was an unforgettable experience. He worked tirelessly to achieve the best possible sound in every venue, using cutting-edge technology and a wide range of audio tools and equipment. His dedication and deep knowledge of sonic nuances have made Vasco’s live shows a benchmark in the Italian music scene.

But what exactly does a Sound Engineer do?

Today, the role of a sound engineer is more crucial than ever. With advances in audio technology and the explosion of streaming platforms, sound engineers must overcome new challenges to ensure flawless playback in various contexts—both live and in the studio. They need to stay updated on the latest tools and trends while constantly pursuing sonic perfection.

Corsellini has paved the way for a new generation of sound engineers, inspiring them with his passion and mastery. He has shown that the art of mixing and audio reproduction requires technical skills, musical intuition, and a great deal of creativity.

Our Interview

At MIR 2023, we had the honor of hosting him at the show, and of course, we took the chance to ask him a few questions. Here’s our interview!

Q: Three tips for those who want to become a sound engineer?

“First tip: don’t do this job if you want to get rich or climb the career ladder.

Second tip: arm yourself with patience.

Third tip: never speak ill of others.”

Q: Tell us something about your experience with Vasco.

“The only thing I can say is, unfortunately, there’s only one Vasco.

It’s a very familiar work environment, based on respect, professionalism, and complicity.

It’s crazy to think that in a tour of an artist of that size—with so many values at stake—everything is relaxed and calm.

But that’s exactly how it is. There’s total synergy in every department, mutual respect, and excellent communication.”

Q: A fond memory or anecdote?

“This job is full of stories because when you go on tour, you become part of a caravan full of personalities—it becomes almost like a second family.
One memory in particular: in 2007, when I first met Vasco—who, contrary to popular belief, is quite shy—we spent about 15 minutes staring at each other in silence before we managed to break the ice.”

Q: Have you noticed any changes in your job after the pandemic?

“Many professionals changed careers. It should be a wake-up call to create specialized training courses and regulate the profession.
We need to define what a sound engineer is. In Italy, we’re still a bit behind on this.”

A huge thank you to Andrea Corsellini for taking the time to speak with us. His contribution highlighted the vital role of the sound engineer in shaping musical experiences and continues to inspire aspiring professionals who want to make their mark on the music industry.