Sequenza: A Fusion of Two Worlds — Electro & Marimba

Sequenza is a fusion of two universes: electronic music and the marimba.

An unprecedented duo combining machines and percussion, electronics and acoustics, with a forward-looking approach. Together, they form a duo imbued with contemplative poetry. The crystalline percussion of one blends with the deep hum of the other’s synthesizers. Oscillating between classical, contemporary, and electronic music, their creation seeks an authentic musical emotion.

Originally, this collaboration was meant to be ephemeral, created for a filmed live performance for CultureBox (France Télévisions’ online platform). The collective Sourdoreille organized a one-night live duo featuring the marimbist and the electronic producer as a tribute to Steve Reich’s iconic compositions.

Live from Studio Venezia

During an invitation to Studio Venezia, part of the French Pavilion at the 2017 Venice Biennale, curated by contemporary artist Xavier Veilhan with the technical support of producer Nigel Godrich (Radiohead, Beck, U2, Air), they had the opportunity to record their pieces and simultaneously construct a one-hour live performance.

“The principle is to create pieces around structured and unstructured frameworks, as I constantly sample Vassilena live.”

Between Chloé and Vassilena, the ways of composing, working, and developing methods evolve. The collaboration is no longer a temporary episode, however accomplished, but becomes a genuine joint project.

“Vassilena is open enough to experimentation to allow a partner to challenge her most academic codes. She also has an abundance of ideas and energy, and her way of playing is very inspiring.”

The marimba’s rhythmic yet airy character, combined with beats and programming, resonates with sounds found in Cliff Martinez’s score for Steven Soderbergh’s Solaris, Pantha du Prince, or recent electronic albums such as Simian Mobile Disco – Murmurations.

“The marimba is the keyboard percussion instrument offering the most possibilities with its five octaves. Compared to the vibraphone, I am drawn more to the sound of wood than metal — it’s warmer, more organic, and allows great expressivity.” — Vassilena