Julia Hülsmann Octet

Pianist and composer Julia Hülsmann has always been drawn to distinctive voices and meaningful lyrics. In the past, she has collaborated on various projects with charismatic soloists such as Rebekka Bakken, Roger Cicero, Theo Bleckmann, and Anna Lauvergnac. On her latest album, *While I Was Away*, she takes it a step further. She incorporates a vocal trio—featuring a wide range of pitches and vocal timbres—into her octet: Michael Schiefel, the only man in the ensemble, is joined by Live Maria Roggen from Norway and Marie Séférian from Angola, alongside accomplished instrumentalists.

With violinist Héloïse Lefebvre, cellist Susanne Paul, Julia Hülsmann on piano, Eva Kruse on bass, and Eva Klesse on drums, the mini-choir tackles timeless material by powerful women such as Feist, Alanis Morissette, and Ani DiFranco, while also presenting original compositions or lyrics set to Julia Hülsmann’s music. Through their artful arrangements, familiar songs take on a new dimension, a fresh perspective, and a different—and very appealing—flavor. Their octet energetically bridges the gaps between jazz, pop, rock, and classical music.

Lineup:

Michael Schiefel (vocals)

Live: Maria Roggen (vocals)

Marie Séférian (vocals)

Heloise Lefebvre (violin)

Susanne Paul (cello)

Julia Hülsmann (piano)

Eva Kruse (bass)

Eva Klesse (drums)