About

Dr. Stefano Marchese is an Italian singer-songwriter, music educator, and researcher based in Boston, where he teaches at Berklee College of Music and the Eliot K–8 Innovation School. His work brings performance, education, and research together through a shared commitment to creativity, inclusion, and community.

As a performer, Marchese has collaborated with artists including Bobby McFerrin, Luis Enrique, Mogol, and Carmen Consoli. He leads Scanzonati alongside bassist and Berklee faculty member Andrea Pejrolo. His solo album, Radici, explores his musical roots, while his performances have been featured on RAI International and RAI Italia. As a radio and television host and producer, he created L’Italia Chiamò Show, broadcast on more than 40 television channels across Italy and Europe.

Marchese’s teaching centers on creating participatory musical experiences that help students find their voices, build relationships, and develop a lifelong connection with music. His doctoral research explores circle singing and participatory music-making, with particular attention to belonging, vulnerability, creativity, and personal growth. He presents at national and international conferences and facilitates workshops that invite educators and musicians to explore improvisation, collaboration, and responsive teaching. His published work also addresses culturally and linguistically responsive teaching and technology in music education.

As President and founder of MEMECO, Marchese promotes international exchange and collaboration among music educators, artists, researchers, and practitioners. He also serves as Assistant Chair of the Massachusetts Music Educators Association’s 2027 conference. Across the classroom, the stage, and professional gatherings, his work reflects a belief in music as a shared human practice—a space for expression, discovery, and connection.