Kodály
R e f r a m e d
The line bewteen folk music and improvisation can be very thin.
The concept of Kodály Reframed presents at its heart a masterpiece of Hungarian composer Zoltán Kodály extended by free improvisations inspired by his composition.
Sonata for Cello Solo Op. 8
Duo for Violin and Cello Op. 7
with improvisations
MAX BAILLIE VIOLIN
HAYDEN CHISHOLM SAX AND SHRUTI BOX
SUSANNE SZAMBELAN CELLO
contact: kodalyreframed@gmail.com
The Kodály Reframed project was born out of deep fascination by Kodály's Sonata for Solo Cello, one of the most technically demanding pieces written for the instrument and therefore rarely performed live.
Although the entire work is based on elements of folk music, it was the Adagio movement that was the original inspiration for constructing the program. This movement in particular reflects the spirit of Hungarian traditional melodies through a style of composition – form that imitates the improvisation of the performer.
The musical encounter between cellist Susanne Szambelan and saxophonist Hayden Chisholm inspired the artists to explore, through the two worlds they come from – classical music and jazz.
As it soon turned out, the open space between the Sonata's movements provides ideal moments for reflection and commentary on the material. Hayden's improvisations, full of meditative and mystical elements using his voice, shruti box, saxophone and New Zealand taongo pouro instruments, allude to the world of Hungarian music, but at the same time transport the listener to a new, contemplative state. The intertwining voices of the saxophone and cello lead into successive movements of the Sonata, so that the listener can't quite draw the line between improvisation and the Sonata composed by Kodály.
The Duo for Violin and Cello, composed just a year earlier, is closely related to the Solo Sonata in style and expression. For the project we invited violinist Max Baillie, who, in addition to his classical career, devotes himself to improvisation and unique musical collaborations. His electrifying stage personality and imagination fit perfectly with the concept of our project.
Kodály Reframed’s program is an unprecedented fusion of styles, instruments and personalities that together on stage have a strong impact on the audience. The enthusiastic reactions we received during our 2023 tour in New Zealand and during the premiere at Kühlhaus Berlin 2024 with support from the Deutsche Orchester Stiftung encouraged us to continue this project.