With music described as “flat out beautiful” and “full of mystery,” composer Edie Hill is a name you’ll want to remember. Her works have been performed around the world, and she has been commissioned to write pieces covering a wide range of genres and instrumentation. Her Navona Records album CLAY JUG, performed by Grammy Award-winning chamber choir The Crossing, explores the depths of textural and harmonic density, and was met with critical acclaim upon its release. Edie returned with The Crossing this summer to release more of her multifaceted work on Navona Records, this time for the multi-composer release EVOLUTIONARY SPIRITS.
We recently sat down with Edie to discuss her pieces on EVOLUTIONARY SPIRITS, Poem for 2084 and Marvellous Error!, and the creative process for coming up with these works.
In addition to our conversation, enjoy Edie’s written responses to the “Inside Story,” a blog series exploring the inner workings and personalities of our artists.
What inspires you to write?
Life. The world around me. The big questions. The small wonders.
Where and when are you at your most creative?
In my own home in Minneapolis. My studio is in the front room of my house, which faces East. I love being in there when the sun is coming up. If I start the day that way, those are my most creative days. I also do a lot of problem solving while riding my bike.
What are your other passions besides music?
I’m fascinated by animals, the web of life, and how all things are connected. I am passionate about the preservation of our planet. I love distance cycling and cycling instead of driving – I stop to watch wildlife along the way (sometimes). Sometimes I just want to zoom!
What advice do you have for young musicians?
Work hard. Know that it’s okay to fail – that’s how you learn. Follow your bliss.
What were your first musical experiences?
I was surrounded by music before I was born. My mother played piano while I was in her belly. My parents sang – we all sang. I played piano by ear when I could crawl up on the piano stool. Music was part of life in my family.
How do you prepare for a performance?
I try to take the joy and wonder of hearing rehearsal to the performance. I focus on the musicians performing my music and feel grateful for the energy, artistry, and love they put into my work.
Poem for 2084 and Marvellous Error! on EVOLUTIONARY SPIRITS are now available for streaming or purchase through Navona Records. Click here to explore this new album.
For Edie Hill, writing music is an opportunity to research, learn, muse, reach down deep, and allow inspiration to come from the stuff of life. Her compositions are fueled by her experiences, passions, and curiosities.
