Susanne Olbrich

Bio:

Susanne Olbrich is a pianist, composer and music teacher living in Findhorn, North East of Scotland. She trained at Oldenburg University (Germany) and in 1992 received a BA (1st class hons) degree in music. Susanne has performed widely, both as a soloist and with various ensembles. Other areas of work included music journalism and theatre work as musical director and composer. In her original music Susanne’s classical training combines with a wide range of influences, such as tango, jazz, minimal music, and music from various corners of the globe. In 2007 and 2008 she was awarded 3rd and 1st prizes at the composers competition of EPTA UK (European Piano Teachers Association) for her pieces “CompassioTango” and “On the Hill of my Life...” In 2005, a HI-Arts professional development award provided the opportunity for Susanne to study with internationally renowned composer/performer Pauline Oliveros. Since then, “Deep Listening” and an interest in sound, free improvisation and extended piano techniques have become an integral part of Susanne’s work. Recordings include the EP “Piano Solo” with original piano music and the collaborative CD “Drops of Life”, contemporary Celtic chamber music by Lîla Senior. A new album with original material, “Continuations” with Susanne's new band Marama Trio, has been released in September 2009, which coincided with the launch of Susanne's own record label Marama Music. As an educator, Susanne has been teaching the piano for more than 20 years, encouraging creative expression in people of all ages and levels. She has been offering workshops in Germany and Scotland, collaborating with music schools, the NHS, adult education providers and community groups. Most recently she started to work with Eden Court, Inverness, teaching “Piano for Late Starters” courses and music improvisation.******************************************************* WORKSHOPS: The focus of my workshops is on creative musicianship, expanding awareness of sound, breath & movement, interacting with others and the environment through sound, (re-)discovering the pleasure of playing. Relaxation and listening are key. For all levels of experience. * Creative Piano * Breath & Body Awareness for Musicians * Music & Meditation * Sounding the Elements: Music Improvisation outdoors * Music for Well-being************************************ .. I edited my profile with Thomas' Myspace Editor V4.4

Member Since:

August 07, 2007

Members:

Influences:

Abdullah Ibrahim, Thich Nhat Hanh, Omar Sosa, Pauline Oliveros, Keith Jarrett, Steve Reich, J.S.Bach, Astor Piazzolla, Arvo Part, John Cage, Meredith Monk, Debussy, La Monte Young, Jan Garbarek, Carla Bley, Sting, Yoko Ono, Joanna MacGregor, sounds of the sea & the rain

Sounds Like:

piano passion - never the same - minimal music, tango, contemporary jazz, pop, world music, folk - recently more experimental

Record Label:

Marama Music