SPARK - THE CLASSICAL BAND
Ann Geerts
"Chamber music on the highest artistic level and right at the cutting edge." (FAZ)
"A genuine classical music phenomenon, not unlike Yo Yo Ma or the Kronos Quartet, but even more vital." (American Record Guide Magazine)
Spark re-thinks the classics. The quintet places Bach, Vivaldi, Mozart and their peers in a fresh new context, forging links with the sounds and lifestyle of the present day. Classical at heart, outwardly wilful, inquisitive and nonconformist, the five musicians pitch their tent on the open ground between classical works, minimal music, electro and avant-garde. With enthusiasm and abandon, styles are mixed and a galaxy of sonic options is explored – given that their well-stocked arsenal of instruments offers over 40 different flutes, violin, viola, violoncello, melodica and piano. No one piece is like the next, and yet they all bear the original, unmistakable fingerprints of this exciting ensemble.
An ECHO Klassik Award winner in 2011, the ten-year-old grouping has played its way into the vanguard of the young creative classical scene. The quintet is now well established at the world’s biggest venues and festivals – whether in chamber performances or in a solo role with orchestra. The group is cherished by its fans above all for its thrilling, highly energetic live performances, which see the five talented musicians getting physical on stage with ebullient vitality and the pulsating power of a rock band. Together they present music that ignites passion. Together they spark.
© Gregor Hohenberg
Line up
Andrea Ritter (recorder)
Christian Fritz (piano)
Daniel Koschitzki (recorder, melodica)
Stefan Balazsovics (violin, viola)
Victor Plumettaz (violoncello)
Latest album release "On the Dancefloor" (Berlin Classics) is available via the online channels iTunes, Qobuz and Amazon.
Header photo Spark © Gregor Hohenberg