Announcement!

In 2024, I’m thrilled to announce my residency as a composer with Sinfonietta Riga in Latvia. The opportunity is truly an honor, one that I’ve eagerly anticipated. Interestingly, my admiration for this orchestra predates my awareness of this project; I’ve long been captivated by their performances streaming online.

The significance of the residency

This residency holds a profound significance for me on multiple levels. Firstly, Sinfonietta Riga is renowned for its excellence, making collaborating with them an extraordinary privilege. Secondly, the cultural and musical ties between Latvia and my current home in Estonia resonate deeply with me. Having moved to Estonia from Sweden six years ago, I’ve witnessed firsthand the vibrant musical exchange between our neighboring countries. The music performed by Sinfonietta Riga, especially works by revered composers like Arvo Pärt and Pēteris Vasks, has left an indelible mark on my musical journey. Pärt’s meditative compositions, in particular, have been a profound influence on my harmonic language, shaping my earliest compositions and continuing to inspire my work to this day.

Inspiration from unexpected sources

As I embark on composing a five-part piece for this residency, I find myself drawing inspiration from unexpected sources. Images from the war in Ukraine have infused the composition process with a poignant urgency, reflected in the evocative titles and the musical narrative taking shape. With a workshop imminent, during which I’ll present two movements of the planned five, I’m eager to collaborate with the orchestra and refine the remaining sections. The feedback from conductor and musicians alike will undoubtedly influence the direction of the composition, although it’s essential to note that the piece remains apolitical despite the geopolitical context of neighboring Russia.

Artistic growth

The flexibility afforded by this residency, allowing for iterative exploration and refinement, presents a rare opportunity for artistic growth. Not only will I have the chance to compose a significant work, but I’ll also delve deeper into the intricacies of orchestration and composition, free from the constraints of tight deadlines.

Musically, I’m blending my signature style—characterized by repetition and minimalism—with rhythmic complexities reminiscent of progressive metal bands like Meshuggah. This fusion, combined with harmonic influences from film music, promises to yield a composition that marks a significant milestone in my artistic journey.

Gratitude

None of this would be possible without the generous support of the Swedish Arts Grants Fund, whose financial backing has made this residency a reality. I’m immensely grateful to Sinfonietta Riga for hosting these workshops and providing accommodations during my stays.

What’s next?

As I eagerly anticipate sharing the finished composition with the world, I invite you to join me on this journey. Follow me on social media or join my email list to stay updated on this project and future endeavors. Expect behind-the-scenes glimpses, exclusive content, and insights into my creative process—straight to your inbox. Your support means the world to me, and I look forward to sharing this musical odyssey with you.

Best regards,
Anders