Actor, composer, and singer-songwriter Peter DiMaggio is stepping into a new chapter. Marking his first fully self-written and self-owned release, his new single “Fly Away,” a soaring indie-pop release that blends emotional vulnerability with cinematic scope, also introduces Passeri Records, DiMaggio’s new independent label and creative home. Drawing from his background in film, acting, dance, and music, DiMaggio transforms a deeply personal story into a shared artistic experience — one built on trust, intention, and collective craft.
Schön! catches up with DiMaggio to chat about his dream curated list — everything from his dream dinner lineup to his favourite tracks.
Hey, what are you up to right now?
Hello! I’m finishing up my run of Commonwealth Shakespeare Company’s A Christmas Carol at the Cutler Majestic Theatre in Boston, prepping demos for production for when I get back from break, and spending quality time with friends before we all scatter to the winds.
If someone asked you what your origin story was, how would you describe it?
Oh, this would be way too long of an answer. So, in short, I am the result of many trusted mentors, teachers, friends, and family supporting me, believing in me, and helping me believe in myself. I would be nowhere without them. So my origin story is one of deep gratitude and a need to prove that their support and belief was for good reason.
Describe your style in 3 words.
Earnest, Story-focused, Bright.
What is the most precious thing in your wardrobe?
My one pair of black jeans that fit me really well. You know how hard it is to find a good pair of jeans?
Which living person do you most admire?
My mom.
What was the last book you read?
Okay, fun story here: my friend from home, Elise, is a grade school teacher, and she started a small business on the side, Indelible Reads, where she sends you a random banned or restricted book. Isn’t that the coolest thing ever? So I’m currently reading Beloved by Toni Morrison.
If you could play any venue, which one would it be?
I grew up in Columbus, Ohio, and there is a great, intimate venue there: Newport Music Hall. I’d love to go back to my hometown and play there.
Where are you happiest?
In a room with people I trust, working on art I love.
Ideal 3-course meal?
Appetizer: Burrata
Main: Carbonara (authentic, which means guanciale, NOT pancetta or bacon, and NO PEAS)
Dessert: Warm chocolate cake or brownie with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream served right away so that the ice cream hasn’t melted yet
Who would play you in the story of your life?
The bard or the jester. Sometimes, what’s the difference?
What’s one song that you’d like to listen to for the first time again?
“Hideaway” by Jacob Collier.
An underrated song/artist you love?
“Good News” by Ethan Tasch.
The track that describes your coming-of-age story?
“Boyhood” by The Japanese House.
An album that you’d put in a time capsule?
Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder. If you want a specific song for playlist purposes: “Saturn.”
A lyric that you love and the song it’s from?
“So I would choose to be with you / That’s if the choice were mine to make / But you can make decisions too / And you can have this heart to break.”
“And So It Goes” by Billy Joel.
A track that reminds you of a happy moment?
“Cool-Doug, at Night” by Sammy Rae & The Friends.
A song that you discovered recently that you love?
“A Song Upon the Window” by NIGHT FLIGHT.
Best record to get you out of a funk?
Being Funny in a Foreign Language by The 1975. The whole album front to back, but if I had to choose one track: “I’m in Love With You” (music video included)
What’s the last song you searched for on Spotify?
“Shape” by Watchhouse.
A song you wish you wrote?
“Never Better” by Wild Rivers.
