Valeria Altobelli’s journey through music, academia, beauty pageants, and philanthropy reads like a modern-day Renaissance narrative, marked by extraordinary achievements and a profound commitment to global causes. Born with an innate passion for music, Valeria embarked on her artistic voyage at the tender age of six, delving into the complexities of piano before broadening her musical repertoire to include guitar, drums, and opera singing. This early dedication to music laid the groundwork for a multifaceted career, seamlessly blending artistry with academic rigor and social advocacy.
At 23, Valeria achieved academic excellence, earning her first and second Law degrees summa cum laude from a prestigious university. Her thesis, a pioneering exploration of “Music Copyright and Copyleft,” underscored her ability to intertwine her love for music with legal scholarship. This intellectual pursuit was further enriched by a High-Level Master’s Degree in International Relationships, awarded in 2016, showcasing her commitment to understanding global dynamics.
Valeria’s versatility and charisma catapulted her into the spotlight in 2004 when she was crowned Miss World Italy. This title would open doors to international stages. Her triumph at the Miss World Talent in China celebrated her musical talents and her ability to captivate audiences worldwide. Valeria’s success in beauty pageants was paralleled by her burgeoning career in modeling, where she became a muse for renowned stylists and brands and a respected judge in significant beauty contests.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Valeria has made significant strides in television, hosting international shows in five languages and starring in prime Italian TV programs. Her victories in a VIP singing competition on Rai1 in 2017 and 2018 further cemented her status as a versatile entertainer. Valeria’s presence graced many a red carpet, from Venice to Rome film festivals, and she even represented Italy at the Jackie Chan Action Film Festival in China, illustrating her international appeal and versatility.
Perhaps most notable is Valeria’s philanthropic spirit, which led her to found Mission, an international NGO dedicated to empowering women through education to protect them from mental and physical harm. Her efforts have been recognized globally, including a special award in Washington D.C., where she was honored with the U.S. flag flown on Capitol Hill, a testament to her role as an Italian excellence in the world.
Valeria’s commitment to music and social causes converged spectacularly in projects like the international anthem against violence against women, produced in collaboration with luminaries such as Diane Warren and John Debney. This project showcased her ability to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers, uniting voices from across the globe in a mighty chorus for change.
In recent years, Valeria has expanded her influence to the academic realm, spearheading the creation of a Master’s degree in Music and Arts at her alma mater and serving as a University Professor of International Cyber Law. Her contributions to music and society culminated in her role in producing and writing soundtracks for films addressing gender equality and other pressing issues.
Valeria Altobelli’s story is one of boundless talent, intellectual curiosity, and a deep-seated desire to positively impact the world. Through her myriad achievements in music, academia, beauty, and philanthropy, Valeria has woven a tapestry of excellence that spans continents and cultures, embodying the spirit of a true global leader.
What drives your passion for music and the arts?
“My passion for music began when I was under 6, playing instruments like the keyboard, piano, and guitar. I’ve always been drawn to the complexity and beauty of music, from opera to jazz to rock. Music is a discipline where you never stop learning and growing. Composing, especially film soundtracks, has become a significant part of my life. My work in art and culture is not just a job; it’s my calling.”
What kinds of music and artists inspire you?
“I’ve always deeply appreciated 70s rock and film music. The evolution of English music, especially the works of the Beatles, Pink Floyd, Queen, and Muse, has been particularly influential. I admire rock women like Amy Lee, Annie Lennox, and Skin and film composers such as Morricone, Vangelis, Elfman, Williams, and Debney. These artists resonate with me because they embody the spirit of rock and classical music, which are my true passions.”
Can you tell us about your relationships with John Debney and Diane Warren?
“John Debney has been a legend to me since I was 20, and now we consider each other ‘brother’ and ‘sister.’ He is one of my closest friends and mentors. Diane Warren, who marked an important page in my life by being the first woman to win the Oscar for composition, is another dear friend and source of inspiration. Our collaborations have been incredibly fulfilling, focused on music, internationality, and social issues.”
How do you balance your academic interests with your artistic career?
“While my family initially hoped I would pursue a career in law, diplomacy, or as a notary, my heart was always with the arts. Nevertheless, I studied to meet those expectations, and today, as a hobby, I teach International Cyber Law and International Law at university. It’s a way to honor my family’s wishes while following my true passion for music and culture.”
What is your preferred method of communication with your audience?
“I’m a live music artist at heart. I struggle with social media because I believe the most genuine form of communication is face-to-face. During live shows and concerts, I can share my emotions and connect with people on a deeply personal level. There’s nothing like the immediate feedback and shared experiences of a live performance.”
Which social issues are you most passionate about?
“I’m deeply committed to addressing women’s social and environmental issues. I’ve spoken about female leadership in Serbia, the Emirates, and India. Women naturally trust and follow me because I strive for authenticity in everything I do. My personal story, which reflects a journey of perseverance and passion against stereotypes and prejudices, inspires many.”
How do you view the current musical landscape?
“The modern music scene, dominated by autotune and streaming, doesn’t resonate with me. I’ve always felt my place is in live performances and composing for films. It’s important to recognize where your strengths lie; for me, that’s in creating music that tells a story or captures a moment, not chasing the latest trends.”
What are your dreams and aspirations for the future?
“I dream of opening a Muse concert with an international lineup of global super musicians, creating a space for genuine artistic collaboration and innovation. Additionally, being nominated for an Oscar for a soundtrack is a goal I aspire to achieve. It would be a recognition of my dedication to blending music with storytelling in a way that moves and inspires people.”
How do you describe your early musical experiences and journey?
“From a young age, I was immersed in music, exploring and mastering various instruments while nurturing a love for singing across different genres. Music has always been a constant in my life, a field where the journey of learning and discovery never ends.”
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