Aniello Desiderio (born 1971, Naples) is an Italian guitarist admired for his dazzling speed, lyrical phrasing, and powerful expression. He picked up the guitar at six and gave his first public performance at eight. Critics soon called him a “child prodigy” and even the “Orpheus of the guitar.”
During his youth, Desiderio dominated competitions. By his early twenties, he had won 18 first prizes at both national and international events. His most notable victories include the Havana International Guitar Competition (1988), the Francisco Tárrega Competition in Spain (1992), and the Guerrero Competition in Madrid (1994).
Listeners often compare his artistry to Paganini. Desiderio combines flawless technique with emotional depth, creating performances that captivate audiences around the world.