The classically trained Slovenian pianist Kaja Draksler came to fruition as an improviser in Amsterdam. Here she took part in various bands and ensembles with, among others, members of The Ex and ICP Orchestra. In her own bands, she offers room for musicians to express their individuality. This is also the case for the group she put together for matter 100, commissioned for the BIMHUIS Composition Assignment. ‘The choice of the individuals in the band is for me crucial,’ she says. ‘It gives me inspiration and direction in writing music.’
‘In matter 100, I am moving towards song and sound; song on the level of form and sound as a navigator and idea generator. The texts I am going to use, sometimes sang, other times narrated, move between experimentation and surrealism.’ For matter 100, Kaja Draksler chases remarkable timbres, for example through the hurdy gurdy and various audio effects.
Kaja Draksler composition/keys/piano, Lena Hessels vocals, Marta Warelis keys, Andy Moor guitar, Samo Kutin (prepared) hurdy-gurdy, Macio Moretti drums, synthesizer