With a legacy spanning generations and a voice synonymous with passion and showmanship, John St Peeters OAM stands as a true icon in Australian music. His latest production, ‘Un Cuore Italiano – The Concert’, was an epic tribute to Italian heritage, the migrant experience, and the enduring power of music to unite communities across continents. Before this world record event took place, we dived into his heartfelt celebration of heritage, resilience, and the universal language of music. In this interview, John revealed the inspiration driving this unique production, discussed how he celebrated his Italian heritage through music, and detailed his ambitious pursuit to make history in the record books once more.
‘Un Cuore Italiano’ has been described as the biggest Italian show ever staged, anywhere in the world. What inspired you to dream so big, and how did the vision for this event first take shape?
‘Un Cuore Italiano’ (The Concert) was born from something deeply personal and deeply collective at the same time — my parents’ journey as early Italian emigrants, and the music that carried their hearts across oceans.
For generations, Italians left their homeland with little more than hope, courage, and song. They carried with them melodies that became emotional anchors in new lands. Those unforgettable Italian songs still live in the hearts of Italians today — not just in Italy, but across the world. The inspiration to dream big came from recognising that this story deserved a stage as grand as the journey itself. Italian emigration wasn’t small — it was epic. For me, this show began with childhood memories — family gatherings, music filling the house, stories told with big gestures and even bigger emotion. That’s what Un Cuore Italiano really means to me: the heartbeat of our people. As the idea evolved, I kept asking myself: What would make my grandparents proud? What would make the next generation curious about their roots? The scale of the show grew because the feeling behind it was so big. When your inspiration comes from heritage and family, you don’t measure it in meters of stage or number of lights — you measure it in impact. ‘Un Cuore Italiano’ (The Concert) has become more than a show. It is a living memory — a bridge between past and present — proving that while borders may change, the Italian heart and its music endure forever.
With over 115 musicians and singers involved, plus special guest artists and live appearances from Italian stars, what has been the most rewarding part of bringing this massive production to life?
What people see on stage is the spectacle. What they don’t see is the collaboration. Coordinating more than 115 musicians and singers, alongside special guests, and appearances on the big screens from Italian stars, requires trust, precision, and a shared belief in the mission. Leading a production of this magnitude is humbling. When you’re responsible for bringing together more than 115 musicians, singers, artists, and presenters, you quickly realise it’s not about control — it’s about inspiration. There’s a moment — just before the curtain rises — when 115 musicians and singers, along with guest artists and presenters, stand in silence together. In that quiet, you feel the weight of years of preparation — the passion, the nerves, the shared dream. Then the first note begins. That transition from silence to showtime is the most rewarding part of all. It’s the proof that something impossible on paper can become breathtakingly real. That’s when you realise this isn’t just a massive production — it’s a collective heartbeat. The applause at the end is beautiful, but the real reward is the pride you see backstage.
You have said ‘Un Cuore Italiano’ is “more than a show – it’s a celebration of heart, heritage and history”. What does that mean to you personally, and how do you hope audiences will connect with your message?
When I say it’s more than a show, I truly mean that. For me, “heart” represents the emotional honesty of Italian culture — we feel deeply, we express boldly, we live passionately. “Heritage” is the legacy we inherit: the music, the language, the traditions passed down at family tables. And “history” reminds us that we stand on the shoulders of generations who created beauty long before us. Personally, this production feels like honouring my roots through music while sharing them with the world. I hope audiences don’t just watch — I hope they recognise something of their own story in it. Because while it’s proudly Italian, its music and its themes of love, resilience, family, and pride are universal. When that connection happens, then Un Cuore Italiano has truly lived up to its name.
Many of the performers are Italo-Australian artists, and the show pays tribute to the Italians who helped shape Australia. Can you share any stories from your own family’s journey that influenced this tribute?
My family’s journey to Australia is very much the heart of this tribute. Like so many Italian families, they arrived with very little except courage, a strong work ethic, and a deep love for their culture. They didn’t come looking for comfort — they came looking for opportunity. I grew up hearing stories about long hours, language barriers, and the quiet determination to build something better for the next generation. That resilience shaped me. This show honours not just the famous names, but the everyday heroes — the builders, the factory workers, the small business owners — who carried Italy in their hearts while helping shape Australia with their hands. I often think about my parents arriving here, stepping into a country that was still finding its own identity. They didn’t just adapt; they contributed. The Italian community helped shape Australia’s food culture, architecture, arts, and entrepreneurial spirit. That contribution wasn’t always immediately recognised, but it is undeniable today. This tribute is my way of saying thank you — to my family and to the thousands of families whose sacrifices-built bridges between two beautiful countries.
The show also honours your late father, Pasqualino Lo Piccolo. Could you tell me about his influence on your life and career, and how you’ll be celebrating his legacy on stage?
My father, Pasqualino Lo Piccolo, was the quiet strength behind everything I do. He wasn’t a man of grand speeches — he led through action, integrity, and unwavering dedication to his family. He taught me that success isn’t measured by applause, but by character. Watching him work tirelessly, often without recognition, shaped my understanding of discipline and humility. On stage, his legacy will be honoured not just in song and words, but in spirit. Losing my father changed me. It gave me a deeper sense of urgency — not just to succeed, but to create something meaningful. He represented a generation of men who expressed love through provision, protection, and perseverance. Even when words were few, the love was immense. ‘Un Cuore Italiano’ – The Concert is dedicated to my dad for giving me this incredible life in the world of show business.
With such an all-star cast, how did you go about selecting artists and what does each of them bring to the event?
Selecting the artists wasn’t about fame — it was about fit. Every performer had to embody not just talent, but authenticity. We looked for artists who understood the emotional language of Italian music — those who could interpret it, not just perform it. Some bring extraordinary classical training; others bring contemporary energy; others bring deep cultural roots within the Italo-Australian community. Each one represents a different facet of Italian identity — tradition, innovation, passion, resilience. Together, they form a mosaic. Individually, they shine, but collectively they tell a story far greater than any one voice could. I wanted artists who would treat the stage not as a platform for themselves, but as a place to honour the music and its meaning. Each performer brings something unique to these unforgettable Italian songs — a distinct tone, a lived experience, a generational perspective. But what unites them is pride. And that pride is what audiences will feel most powerfully.
This is a one-night only event. What do you hope the audience will remember most from this historic night?
Because it’s one night only, there’s an intensity to it. You can’t replicate it. You can’t replay it. More than the scale, more than the lights, more than the standing ovation — I hope they remember how it made them feel. If someone walks away feeling proud of their heritage, closer to their family, or simply moved by the power of music, then we’ve done our job. It’s a one-night event, yes — but the emotion shouldn’t be temporary. I hope it lingers long after the final note. I hope audiences remember that they witnessed something rare — not just a performance. And if I make the record books, years from now, I hope they’ll say, “I was there.”
After more than four years in the making, what have you learned about yourself, your team, and the power of community through this journey?
Over four years ago, this was an idea. Today, it’s a movement. I’ve learned that dreams demand resilience, that teams become families, and that community is the invisible force that turns ambition into reality. Most of all, I’ve learned that when something is built from the heart, people recognise it. They invest in it emotionally, and that shared heartbeat is far more powerful than any stage, spotlight, or standing ovation. This journey has taught me that leadership isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about the people around you. I have the most incredible family support and a creative team like no other.
What message would you like to share with Italians in Australia and with anyone passionate about their Italian heritage?
My message is simple: be proud! To every Italian in Australia — whether you arrived decades ago or you’re third- or fourth-generation — thank you. Your stories, your resilience, your traditions have helped shape this country in profound ways. To the younger generation especially, I would say this: your heritage is not old-fashioned — it’s powerful. You don’t have to choose between being fully Australian and fully Italian. You can be both. That dual identity is a gift. It gives you depth, perspective, and resilience. Learn the stories. Keep the language alive if you can. Ask your parents and grandparents questions. One day, you’ll realise those conversations were treasures. Never underestimate the beauty of belonging to two worlds. That bridge between Italy and Australia is not just history — it’s a living, breathing legacy that each of us has the privilege to continue.
I was fortunate to feature as a special guest presenter, alongside Michael Cristiano who exclusively performed his latest release ‘Nero E Blu’ live. During ‘Un Cuore Italiano – The Concert’ John St Peeters was awarded by The Australian Book of Records for The Largest Italian Show Ever Staged, a world record with 117 musicians and singers on stage. I caught up with John recently, to reflect on this tremendous achievement:
“Winning the Italian world title for staging the largest Italian concert ever—bringing together 117 extraordinary musicians and singers—fills me with a deep and lasting sense of pride. It wasn’t just about the scale; it was about the spirit behind it. I dedicate this achievement to my father, for giving me this unforgettable journey in showbiz, and to all Italians in Australia for their continued support. Every note carried heritage, every voice told a story, and together we created something that felt far bigger than a performance—it was a celebration of culture, unity, and passion.
What makes this achievement truly meaningful is the collective effort. It stands as proof of what can happen when talent, dedication, and a shared vision come together without compromise. To see that many artists moving as one, honouring Italian music with such authenticity and energy is something I will carry with me forever. I’ve often been described as “the quiet achiever”… and I guess that comes from something my father told me when I was just a kid starting out. His words still ring in my ears: “Work hard at your craft, because actions will speak louder than words.” That mindset has stayed with me every step of the way—and it always will.
People often ask me what’s next for JSP. As a Creative Director, I’m passionate about creating shows that are heartfelt—experiences that stay with audiences long after the final note. I’m ready to take that vision further and into the future. But above all, let’s not forget that respect for humanity is what will truly make this world a better place—for all of us to work together and thrive”.
With the audience having travelled from interstate, who knows what is possible for this award-winning show. If you want to see ‘Un Cuore Italiano – The Concert’ in your capital city, connect with John St Peeters OAM today.
