BY STEPHANIE ESLAKE
If you want to be part of something new, check out this Australian Cultural Fund campaign.
Elysian Fields is the only improvised music ensemble in the country to feature electric viola da gamba. Founded by Jenny Eriksson, the group is crowdfunding a CD of original music for this instrument and jazz ensemble – the first release of its kind in Australia.
Jenny studied cello at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music while in her early 20s, but soon discovered the viola da gamba – a more unique instrument. She has performed it for 35 years across several countries, and four years ago picked up the electric viola da gamba to “create a new, vibrant future” for her instrument. Jenny is also a member of The Marais Project and has released six CDs with the group.
Donations to her Elysian Fields campaign will fund costs of recording and producing the album, its physical release, and more. Jenny has already commissioned two hours of new music for the release but says she will not receive payment for the album herself.
“We are creating a new sound world. I also believe deeply that new Australian creative works matter.”
Find out more about the campaign and show your support on the Australian Cultural Fund website.
Did you read our interview with Jenny’s son, Siebe Pogson? Siebe has a history of performing with his mum, and the musical family pair will team up in this album, along with other leading Australian musicians.
Images supplied.
