Patrizio Ratto’s audition was one of the most impressive ones on America’s Got Talent in 2019, which has amassed over 10 million views.
As his piano was brought onto the stage, the judges, notably Howie Mandel and Simon Cowell, seemed unenthused, anticipating yet another piano performance. “Maybe it’s because I’ve been here for ten years,” Howie Mandel joked, “but I bet you we have a piano player coming up next.” Cowell responded with sarcasm, “Whoopee!”
Ratto began his rendition of “Für Elise,” initially appearing mundane, which left Cowell incredulous. However, what unfolded next shattered all of Cowell’s preconceptions.
Ratto surprised everyone as he slowed down the piano tempo, and a hip-hop beat kicked in. While still playing the piano with one hand, he moved his other arm in rhythm with the music.
Cowell looked surprised, trying to comprehend the unexpected turn of events. Then, Ratto kicked away his piano stool, discarded his suit jacket, and unleashed a burst of jerky, robotic dancing filled with crazed energy.
Terry Crews exclaimed, “What is going on?” capturing the bewilderment of the audience. Ratto displayed contortion and flexibility, bouncing up and down on the floor and leaning back to an extent that seemed almost impossible. The unexpected performance left everyone questioning, adding a unique and unforgettable twist to the show.
The supremely talented Italian also showed a humorous side as he pretended to observe his own arm wobbling independently from his body, even checking his watch as if waiting for the arm’s solo to end. The audience erupted in laughter. Following more jaw-dropping robotic moves, Ratto seamlessly returned to the piano to conclude his performance of “Für Elise.” This calm moment served as a perfect contrast to the earlier frenetic chaos.
Online viewers applauded Ratto’s surprising performance, saying things such as “I love how he comes on all nervous and plays his classical music and then pow wow, electricity fires up. He is a phenomenal dancer and pianist.”