Lets talk about Alexander Nantschev the musician guy with a story as diverse as his tunes. His musical journey involves walking on a tight rope between classical melodies and experimental loops on a balcony that links his brother’s studio to his father’s classical music haven.
Like him, there is a little bit of everything in his latest album, “Selves.” Each song is an alternative side of him; like having multiple alter egos. For this reason, he does not believe in one self only, he argues that it does not work for such world as ours where we are forced to be stuck with one identity only.
In the midst of the buzz created by music and arts in his family, Alexander derives pleasure from mundane things – deep conversations, strolls in nature or teaching kids how to play violins. His process of making music? More like playing around and seeing what sticks.
In a recent interview with Mister Styx of Musicarenagh, he was asked if his music style evolve since the beginning of your career and his response was an interesting one, this is what he had to say:
“I strive not to regress, maintaining a dreamlike state that reflects a unique magic while learning life’s lessons.”
In this conversation we explore how he entered into music, who influenced his jamz and how he juggles the whole artist-manager thing. From being an avid Pink Floyd fanboy to finding his own sound, Alexander gives us all the stats about the music he loves creating without any fancy lingo at all.
Listen to Selves
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What is your stage name
Alexander Nantschev
Is there a story behind your stage name?
Certainly, it’s simply my official name.
Where do you find inspiration?
I draw inspiration from deep conversations with friends, visits to galleries, concerts, nature walks, reading, and engaging with other artists. My work teaching kids the violin is a constant wellspring of creativity due to its playful nature.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life?
Music permeated my upbringing, with a father as a violinist, a ballerina mother, a conductor-composer uncle, and a music-producing brother. Our home was a hub for musicians, painters, and artists.
Are you from a musical or artistic family?
Yes, my family is deeply rooted in music and the arts.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry?
The early influence of The Beatles and Pink Floyd sparked my interest in the music industry.
How did you learn to sing/write/to play?
My father initiated my violin training at age 3, followed by piano lessons at 9 and guitar at 15. My uncle enriched my knowledge in counterpoint, harmony, theory, music history, and solfeggio. I further studied violin and piano at the Music University in Vienna.
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform?
While I can’t recall the first concert, seeing Pink Floyd at 13 in the front row left a lasting impression.
How could you describe your music?
Some label it as progressive, but I prefer to describe it as psychedelic. Influenced by classical music, my focus centers on melody and its arrangement.
Describe your creative process.
My approach is playful, often starting with improvisation. I then refine by cutting out favored parts. Dance has been a significant influence, connecting various art forms like choreography, video projection, music, and stage design.
What is your main inspiration?
A good sleep is crucial. While exhaustion hinders creativity, there are exceptions, like compositions born from high fever and sickness. Exceptional performances by other musicians also serve as inspiration.
What musician do you admire most and why?
I admire Glenn Gould for his unique and individualistic approach to music, unswayed by external judgments.
Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career?
I strive not to regress, maintaining a dreamlike state that reflects a unique magic while learning life’s lessons.
Who do you see as your main competitor?
As Bela Bartok said, competitions are for horses.
What are your interests outside of music?
I enjoy art, movies, books, philosophy, nature walks, and deep conversations with friends.
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing?
Probably a diplomat.
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music?
Confronting self-criticism and balancing the roles of artist and manager can be challenging.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be?
I believe the public needs to value music more, akin to other forms of entertainment.
Why did you choose this as the title of this project?
The album “Selves” represents different facets of me, each song embodying a distinct self – the Romantic, the classical, the hippie, the astronaut, the guru self.
What are your plans for the coming months?
I’ve formed a new band, and rehearsals are underway. Additionally, I’m planning classical violin concerts.
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans?
I’m always open to collaborating with inspiring individuals.
What message would you like to give to your fans?
Believe in what you excel at. If someone inspires you, great. If a concert leaves you feeling down, it may have been more about ego than art.
