STRUNE / STRINGS in the City and in Nature : Symphonica Machina et Natura | Novi glasbeni projekt
Photo by Neža Ternik
Mihael Hrustelj – STRUNE v mestu in naravi / STRINGS in the City and in Nature: Symphonica Machina et Natura
Let me introduce my new project, which I have been developing for several years and can finally bring to life.
The project will premiere at the end of September in Radlje ob Dravi and Velenje — the towns that are also its greatest inspiration.
September 25, Thursday at 6:00 PM – Salon ARS, Cultural Center Radlje
September 26, Friday at 6:00 PM – Velenje City Gallery
It is an interdisciplinary art project that combines music, visual art, poetry, ecology, and the innovative reuse of waste materials.
At the heart of the project is the premiere of a four-movement suite, created specifically for newly hand-crafted string instruments made from repurposed industrial waste (frames and drums of washing machines, iron sinks, old bathtubs) and natural elements (branches, logs, stones). Old strings from pianos, bowed instruments, and guitars are stretched across these sculptural constructions, creating a unique soundscape—a dialogue between the city and nature. The project carries a strong ecological message, as over 90% of the materials used have been sourced through creative recycling.
In addition to the musical performance, the project involves research in the fields of acoustics, mechanics, instrument-making, woodworking, and electronics, with the participation of various skilled craftsmen.
The project’s international character is reflected in collaborations with artists from other European countries who will take part in the performance of the suite. After the premiere, the newly created instruments will be exhibited, and the performance will be documented in an audiovisual format.
This work pushes the boundaries of contemporary music and performance, fostering intergenerational and interdisciplinary collaboration while promoting sustainable development in the arts. With its boldness, innovation, and ecological insight, it offers a unique contribution to the cultural landscape—both in Slovenia and internationally.
"As a child, I constantly moved between the city and the countryside. These two landscapes stayed in my ears and my heart—the metallic murmur of city streets and the quiet whispers of nature. In this project, both sounds meet and create harmony. This is me, this body, this life..."
Performing team:
Mihael Hrustélj, Rengert Eggink, Oskar Kolar, Živa Škrlovnik, Miha Štefl, Aleš Ločnikar, Janez Markač, Marko Sekolovnik
The project is supported by the Municipality of Velenje and KD Radlje.
