Massimo of the World - one sacred musician's journey from Italy to Kazakhstan to Chicago

Discover the inspiring journey of our very own Massimo Scapin, Director of Music for the Canons Regular of St. John Cantius in Chicago. 

In this insightful interview from Cantate! online magazine, Scapin shares his remarkable path—from piano studies in Italy, advanced training in Salzburg and London, to conducting opera across Romania, Kazakhstan, and South Korea, including leading the Karaganda Symphony Orchestra.

Now guiding a vibrant sacred music program for the Canons Regular of St. John Cantius, he oversees professional and youth choirs, orchestras, Gregorian chant scholas, and an internship for young musicians, all in service to the Canons' mission of Instaurare Sacra ("To Restore the Sacred").

Scapin also discusses his ongoing work as a composer for the Sistine Chapel Choir (since 2019), his monthly columns on Catholic-inspired sacred music for OnePeterFive, and timeless advice for church musicians: prioritize formation in music, liturgy, theology, and Latin; approach sacred music as ministry; and cultivate reverence, humility, and community.

A beautiful testament to how global experiences and deep faith converge in elevating liturgical beauty—perfect reading for anyone passionate about sacred music's role in worship.

Read the full interview here