Research
Jugend komponiert
Austrian national competition as part of "prima la musica" - analysis / approaches / composition techniques
I wrote a master's thesis on this topic at the JAM MUSIC LAB Private University (Master of Music Education in Theory/Arrangement/Composition, supervisor Prof. Richard Graf, 2023). “Jugend komponiert” in Austria, a competition format that invites young people aged 10 to 18 to engage with the creative side of music, is the focus of this thesis. Analyses of selected compositions with regard to approaches, processing and compositional techniques as well as characteristics and objectives of this competition are discussed and compared with similar formats. Furthermore, concepts and exercises for composition lessons are presented that can support the process of composing. In addition, analyses of own compositions, which are oriented towards the prize-winning works in terms of content or compositional technique, are part of this master's thesis.
String instruments in jazz
Jazz / classical / new music - approaches, characteristics, playing techniques
As a cellist in the Tonkünstlerorchester Niederösterreich and in numerous other ensembles, I have been able to get to know and play music of the most diverse styles over several decades. Based on this experience and in connection with a master's degree at the JAM MUSIC LAB Private University for Jazz and Popular Music (Master of Music in Theory/Arrangement/Composition, supervisor Prof. Richard Graf, 2021), this publication was created, which is based on my master's thesis “Elements of Jazz in New Music with special consideration of the role of string instruments using the example of my own compositions”. On the one hand, it highlights the differences and similarities between classical music, including new music, and jazz, with examples across genres being explained, and on the other hand, the role of string instruments in jazz and their special playing techniques that are used there. In addition to reviewing and comparing previously published models, the book also incorporates the author's own phenomenological observations and practical experience.
Interviews with renowned musicians who have enjoyed a classical education but are mainly or exclusively active in the field of jazz or popular music broaden the spectrum by giving me their very personal perceptions, opinions and assessments on the subject of string instruments in jazz. Georg Breinschmid, Melissa Coleman, Simon Frick, Margarethe Herbert, Christoph Mallinger, Susanne Paul and Jelena Popržan have shown me a variety of approaches to music of different styles.