In this exclusive interview with Xmag, Tony Ann reveals the inspiration behind ‘360°’, a musical project where piano and astrology intertwine. The Canadian musician discusses digital fame, sonic identity, and his return to Canada for two live performances on 2 and 3 September.
Speaking to Xmag, Canadian-born pianist and composer Tony Ann shares how his music seeks to capture more than just emotion — it aims to mirror the cosmos. His new album, ‘360°’, assigns each zodiac sign a dedicated composition. “I studied the characteristics of each sign, their unique traits, and tried to represent them through musical language — rhythm, harmony, melody,” he explains. Aries, Virgo or Pisces become sound portraits built on intuition and nuance.
The inspiration behind the album was to find a concept that felt both fresh and authentic. “I wanted something I was personally interested in and that hadn’t been overdone. The hardest part was making each piece stand out on its own,” Tony admits. The result is a rich neoclassical exploration, rooted in storytelling and spiritual resonance.
Tony’s #playthatword series — where he interprets random words into music — has played a huge role in popularising instrumental piano for younger audiences. “I’m glad my videos have brought new audiences to instrumental music. It shows that if more people knew what’s out there, it could be way more popular,” he says. With millions of followers across social platforms, his ability to bridge digital creativity and classical precision has earned him global recognition.
He has also collaborated with the likes of Don Diablo, Wrabel, and The Chainsmokers — experiences that grounded his approach. “Be fun to work with and don’t carry an ego,” he reflects simply. That openness translates into his solo work, where vulnerability and versatility walk hand in hand.
“Life’s too short not to try. I’d love to explore pop, maybe even sing — musicians are always evolving”
Tony Ann
His digital success has naturally evolved into sold-out live shows, including a tour across Europe. “The hardest job for any artist is bringing fans from the digital world to real-life venues. The fact that online success led to sold-out shows in so many countries is both motivating and inspiring,” he says. And now, Tony Ann is preparing to return home, with two live performances in Canada on 2 and 3 September, where fans will experience his cosmic compositions live.
When asked about pre-show rituals, he laughs: “I eat a big dinner — that’s all. I don’t have routines or anything I need.” Still, his emotionally complex melodies — reminiscent of anime soundtracks or even Sailor Moon’s whimsical magic — suggest a rich inner world. Would he ever compose for anime? “Maybe one day in the next 10 years,” he muses.
Among the album’s twelve pieces, Gemini and Pisces hold special meaning. “Gemini is my dad’s favourite, and Pisces has my favourite melody.” As for the future, he’s not interested in labels. “I honestly have no idea. Musicians are always evolving, and our styles change subconsciously. I’d love to try singing, explore genres like pop… life’s too short not to.”
When asked how he balances being present with such an active digital following, he admits he doesn’t. “Music is in my head wherever I go. I’m a musician and composer all the time — I can’t just switch off when I’m ‘not working’.” That passion is what keeps him creating, exploring, and pushing boundaries.
For young listeners discovering neoclassical music through his content, he offers one clear message: “Be unique — but not so much that people can’t digest it. Music isn’t maths; there’s no right or wrong. Just write from where the excitement is, and others will follow.”
