The CAVE SONGS project, as part of the nationwide call “Art for Schools” by the Slovak arts Council, provided students from high schools in Rožňava and Rimavská Sobota with a unique insight into contemporary music. This was achieved through an original concept of a moderated and commented ensemble rehearsal by VENI ensemble, the oldest continuously operating Slovak ensemble, active for 36 years, under the artistic direction of Daniel Matej. The ensemble featured a four-member lineup: Daniel Matej – electronics, laptop, Ronald Šebesta – clarinet, Michal Matejka – electric guitar, and Milan Osadský – accordion.
During the workshop, students were first introduced to the history and significance of the VENI ensemble. Then, we presented traditional musical instruments such as the clarinet, accordion, and electric guitar, explaining how these instruments are commonly used in classical music and pop music, while also demonstrating how contemporary music can expand their sound possibilities. An interesting moment was the introduction of the electronic instrument Elektrosluch, which captures the inaudible sounds of electronic devices such as mobile phones and laptops, and its importance in contemporary music. Students also had the opportunity to observe a rehearsal of the graphic score Trio by Pedro Rebelo, which was accompanied by expert commentary to help them better understand the process of creating such a work. We concluded the program with a shortened presentation of the CAVE SONGS project, followed by a discussion where students could ask questions and share their thoughts on what they had experienced.
We conducted a total of 4 workshops, attended by nearly 200 students.
Two workshops were held on September 23, 2024, at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM at the Cultural Center Kláštor in Rožňava, where they were met with great interest from the students. The next two workshops took place on September 24, 2024, at the Dom Osvety in Rimavská Sobota, also at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, where we delivered a similar program, enriched by a lively discussion and new questions arising from the students’ interest in contemporary music and its techniques. Both days showed that the CAVE SONGS project provided students with a unique opportunity to enhance their musical education and experience something they don’t usually encounter, all through a creative and interactive approach.
The project was supported by public funds from the main partner, Slovak Arts Council. Supported by SOZA. With financial contributions from the Slovak Music Fund. The media partners are Hudobný život and Opera Slovakia.
