RESEARCH X
MUSIC MAKING
Conceived as a four-year project, the [re]Shape Ensemble operates as a living laboratory, where artistic practice and research meet to explore the role of music as a medium for strengthening social cohesion and fostering transcultural dialogue in a globalised world.
The establishment of this ensemble represents a significant contribution to the diversification and cultural opening of a leading cultural institution in Carinthia.
Its strong innovative potential lies in the fact that artistic processes are not only practiced but also explored through transdisciplinary methods, allowing them to be examined, reflected upon, and continuously developed.
"YOU HAVE PLANTED A SEED WHICH I THINK COULD BE A MODEL FOR ANY DEPARTMENT OF INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION."
Music x sociETY
Beyond its artistic work, the ensemble understands itself as a “society in a nutshell”: a space where coexistence, co-creating and diversity are explored collaboratively.
Closely connected to academic research and European cultural initiatives, the ensemble bridges theory and practice, positioning itself as a forward-looking model for cultural sustainability and innovation.
Thereby it engages with fundamental questions such as:
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What is the potential of musical practice for societal cohesion?
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How can "sonic agency" contribute to social equity and foster individual resilience?
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How can transcultural dialogue be developed?
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On what aesthetic and ethical foundations does it rest?
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And how can music be composed, directed, and performed beyond fixed cultural attributions?
arTISTIc Mission
For this ensemble project, taking our time plays an important role. It takes time to get to know each other, tune into each other's artistic practice and to find and consciously build cultural bridges.
We deliberately take that time. It's the foundation of a sustainable musical ecosystem and our commitment to cultural sustainability and innovation.
To support this approach, the ensemble is intentionally structured as a small group of eight to ten members.
This intimate format creates a focused yet dynamic environment in which musicians can develop both individually and collectively.
Creative expression, active participation, and shared ownership of the artistic process are encouraged throughout, while a professional approach to ensemble work and performance provides a strong framework for artistic growth, experimentation, and excellence.
MEET THE
[rE]shAPE ENSEMBLE
JANEZ KREVEL
Double bass (bass)
LUCA CHAGAS
Violin
DR. LUKA MUKHAVELE
Mbira, Xizambi (mouth bow)
Nkhambira, Xitende (calebasse bow), Vocals
KATJA ZUPAN
(Ethnic) Flutes
"For me, it's essential that music tells a story. And every song we play in this project tells of someone's rituals, musical practices, lifestyles, and personal story."
PRIMOŽ GNIDOVEC
Styrian Harmonica, Accordion, Organetto
RONIN SHAHAN
Kaval
"Above all, it's important to me to showcase the diversity of music. That's fascinating and breathtaking to me, and that's what I try to convey."
CORINA KUHS
Harp, Flute, Bagpipes, Jaw Harp, Vocals
AREF ALOSH
Saz, Baglama, Oud, Bouzouki
SEBASTIAN HAIDUTSCHEK
Djembe, Tablas, Drum set, Congas, Frame drum, Devil's fiddle
MAGDALENA
PEDARNIG MA
Zither
"Personally, this project has reshaped me, because of all the new musical styles I’ve heard from the band mates. It's just like when I went to a music camp when I was young: zero competition, just music and cultures from all over the world blending together."
AJDA CVEK
Violin
MUSIC OUTREACH
The ensemble members bring specialised knowledge, musical traditions, and distinct artistic approaches that can range from instrument-making to culturally rooted performance practices.
This expertise extends beyond the ensemble through workshops, and educational formats in schools and other cultural institutions.
In doing so, the project fosters cultural dialogue, expands access and participation, and demonstrates how artistic practice and education can meaningfully intersect in a diverse, globalised society.
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"The group experience encouraged me to build a musical instrument I had for long on my drawing desk. It is a co-product of (Re)shape!"
Musicologist Innsbruck/Maputo
DR. LUKA MUKHAVELE
