by Jarrett Hoffman
As musicians’ tastes change over time, it can be frustrating for them to realize that the instrument they’ve spent years mastering now confines their stylistic breadth. Or does it? In some cases, all that’s needed is a new mindset.
Years ago, composer, improviser, and harpist Stephan Haluska decided he’d had enough of the stereotypes about his instrument in Western culture — the angels, the magic, the dream sequences. He’s since re-imagined what the instrument can do, using extended techniques, electronic processing, and preparing the strings like John Cage would a piano.
All that and more can be heard during an hour-long improvisation that Haluska will present at the Bop Stop on Thursday, January 28 at 7:00 pm. The live stream is accessible for free, but donations are accepted here.