Giulia Ricciotti is a 32 year old business developer from Turin (Italy). She works at Audio Network, a company that provides high-quality tracks for multimedia, especially for cinema, television and advertising. At MGIM we chose to interview her because she is one of our compatriots who managed to become part of the music industry as she always dreamed of thanks to her determination. In addition to being a fan of rock and punk, she is a live music supporter. She describes herself as cheerful, curious, creative, enthusiastic and dynamic.
When did your interest in the music industry start and what inspired you to pursue this career?
My passion for music started as a child when I learnt how to play different musical instruments and read multiple books about the history of music. When I grew up, I understood that behind every single song there is the work of many people and, from that moment, my dream became to be part of this sector.
What did you study at university?
I graduated in International Economy and Management and I worked in several multinationals in other sectors. In 2020 I felt a strong need for change, therefore I left a permanent job contract to follow my passion. I achieved a Master in Music Business and I started taking my first steps in the music industry trying to get to know as many music realities as possible.
What was your first practical experience in the music industry?
I started to take care of some Italian bands through some managerial activities such as communication, promotion, digital distribution, press office, social media and booking. My first experience at a company was at Sony Music where I dealt with the communication of new releases to the various DSPs and other activities related to the digital world.
What do you do now and what is your favorite part of this job?
I am currently working in business development at Audio Network, a high-quality music catalog used in the cinema, television, advertising and multimedia where I am lucky enough to work in the world of synchronization. I love both the creative part of musical research and the business development part which is my main activity. It allows me to take part to festivals, fairs and events and expand my professional network. At Audio Network, unlike other realities, what really shines is the importance given to the quality of music. In fact, all our recordings take place at the most prestigious studios like the Abbey Road Studios in London. This attention towards quality is one of the aspects I am most proud of.
Have you ever had any difficulties as a woman?
No, I have ve never had any problems like that. I have certainly been lucky to find healthy working environments.
Who are your favorite artists and what songs have left a mark on you?
My favorite band is Green Day which I follow since 2001. In general, I listen to every genre that has rock influences, ranging from punk to blues and jazz. I love music from the 70s and enjoy bands like the Clash, Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd who made the history of music. Another absolute legend for me is Frank Zappa who I admire for his artistic genius. At Audio Network, we have Johnny Lloyd from the Tribes and I really like them. There are so many songs that are important for me but the one I am most fond of is “Jesus of Suburbia” from Green Day’s “American Idiot” album.
How would you describe the Italian music industry? Do you think it differs a lot from big markets such as the Anglo-Saxon one?
I must be honest, although I hope that something really valid could arrive to Italy in the future, at the moment I listen to very little national music. Everything that interests me from my country dates back to years ago. Certainly, in the Anglo-Saxon markets it is possible to do much more scouting as in the various pubs and clubs you find many emerging artists playing original repertoire, while in Italy this is rare... the clubs mostly look for cover bands and it is a waste.
Do you think that being Italian influences your career?
I believe that in Anglo-Saxon countries like UK and US there are so much more opportunities in this sector. In Italy there are a few opportunities but a high demand. However, lately there seems to be a slow change regarding this.
What are your future projects?
I hope to never stop learning new things. I am curious by nature and, in recent years, I have enriched myself a lot on a human level thanks to music and also thanks to the fantastic team I have found at work.
Do you have any suggestions for other Italians and Mediterraneans who want to work in this industry?
My advice is essentially one: if you really have this strong passion, don't let yourself be thrown down by closed doors because initially it was difficult for me too. If you really believe in it and persevere with desire and determination, satisfaction will come in the end.
Can you suggest an Italian song to our readers?
The new single by Amore Psiche entitled “Umano Troppo Umano”, a new release of a band from Milan that I followed in the past. I recommend you to take a look at their Spotify page to listen to their musical project which is based on themes that are now forgotten such as taking care of relationships and people in general, values that I share.