by Evan C. GutierrezThough conventional wisdom would state that no one can serve two masters, Italian piano sensation Giovanni Allevi maintains an impressive career in music and continues to distinguish himself in the field of philosophy. Born in Ascoli Piceno on April 9, 1969, Allevi first pursued an education in music, earning high marks in piano and composition from the Giuseppe Verdi Conservatory in Milan. Before entering the professional music world, he graduated cum laude with a Ph.D in philosophy, with a thesis titled The Emptiness of Modern Physics. Shortly thereafter, Allevi turned his attentions back to composition, releasing 13 Dita (Universal) in 1997. Allevi crossed easily over the line between the classical and contemporary music worlds, performing in venues ranging from the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts to New York's famous Blue Note jazz club. Compositions from 13 Dita became well-liked in contemporary piano ci...