Feature: Leonardo Barilaro Decodes “Moon Seeds”
How did everything come together?
“Moon Seeds” was created as the soundtrack of the ASTROBEAT project, blending music and space science. This project is a fusion of art, innovation and exploration, where I collaborated with Grammy-nominated cellist Tina Guo and producer Steve Mazzaro. The collaboration was born out of a shared vision to push creative boundaries. The music itself reflects the essence of humanity's exploration and curiosity, with each note created to resonate as a 'seed' of inspiration for the audience. The ASTROBEAT mission involved sending to the International Space Station an innovative scientific experiment to repair spacecraft hulls after a space debris impact, making it a perfect vessel to connect music with Space.
What impact do you hope "Moon Seeds" will have on your audience?
I hope “Moon Seeds” plants a sense of wonder and curiosity about our place in the Universe in every listener. It’s meant to inspire people to dream big and to see space exploration not just as a scientific endeavour but as an artistic one too. The music encapsulates a message of growth, creativity and interconnectedness. I want it to be a reminder that art and science are two sides of the same coin, following the Renaissance ideal of Leonardo Da Vinci, both driving us to expand the boundaries of what we know and feel.
What was your favorite moment in making the music video?
My favourite moment was when the visuals perfectly synced with the music, creating a seamless connection between sound and imagery. Seeing Tina Guo's powerful cello performance visually integrated with the cosmic themes of ASTROBEAT was magical. It felt like the music truly came alive, embodying the fusion of Earthly emotion and the infinite possibilities of Space. Watching the final cut, done by Joel Moody, for the first time gave me chills, it was as if we had created something that truly transcended boundaries.
Are there any collaborations you've been a part of that have been particularly memorable or rewarding?
Absolutely, the collaboration with Tina Guo on “Moon Seeds” is a standout. Her ability to evoke emotion with her cello and her deep understanding of the themes we were exploring added an unparalleled depth to the project. Working with Steve Mazzaro, whose cinematic vision brought a unique texture to the composition, was really rewarding too. Beyond music, collaborating with scientists and engineers on the ASTROBEAT mission has been deeply inspiring. It’s rare to work on a project where art and science align so perfectly to create something impactful both creatively and technically.
What's your favorite part about performing live? How do you connect with your audience during a performance?
Performing live is where the magic happens, it’s the moment when you can truly connect with the audience. My favourite part is when I see the music resonating emotionally with people, especially during pieces like “Moon Seeds” or “Maleth,” which carry such profound meaning. I try to share the story behind each piece during the performance, creating a bridge between the music, the science and my personal journey. This storytelling, combined with the music, creates an intimate connection, even in large venues. It's a shared experience that reminds me why I started this journey, to inspire and connect.
