Stichting Oosterkerk

Biografie

The Shadanga Duo is formed of flutist Katalin Szanyi and clarinetist Jason Alder. The duo focuses on the performance of contemporary works, particularly those with complex rhythms, microtonality, and extended techniques.

The name Shadanga is a Sanskrit word meaning “six limbs”, and in the Karnatic music of South India refers to a structure of the tala system of time keeping. Within the context of Indian art, the six limbs of Shadanga have been translated as: Rupabheda- The knowledge of appearances; Pramanam- Correct perception, measure and structure; Bhava- Action of feelings on forms; Lavanya Yojanam- Infusion of grace, artistic representation; Sadrisyam- Similitude; Varnikabhanga- Artistic manner of using the brush and colours. These concepts also reflect the musical vision of the Shadanga Duo.

Flutist Kata Szanyi and clarinetist Jason Alder began collaborating in Amsterdam in 2013, and in 2014 had 7 new commissions written for them by members of the Danish composers group Snow Mask, which will be premiered in December.

Flutist Kata Szanyi received her Bachelor (2011) and Master’s (2013) degrees from the Conservatorium van Amsterdam as a student of Marieke Schneeman. In addition to music performance, she has also trained as a physical performer/mime, and as such has a great curiosity about making theater and complex interdisciplinary performances.

Clarinetist Jason Alder holds degrees in clarinet performance (BMus, Michigan State University- US, 2002), bass clarinet performance (BMus, Conservatorium van Amsterdam- NL, 2010), and creative improvisation (MMus, Artez Conservatorium- NL, 2012). He specializes in contemporary music and techniques and frequently works with composers to premiere new works. Jason is also very interested in collaborative projects, particularly those involving interdisciplinary and multimedia aspects. He often works with dancers, theatermakers, visual artists, and videographers to create new performance art.