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Q&A WITH MUSICAL PRODIGY SETH SCHWARZ 

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Seth Schwarz is the prolific musician re-shaping the electronic music arena with his signature sound and innovative fusion of classical violin with electronic music. His latest single ‘Radiate Love’ was released on 2 August via his own imprint NASAJA. So far, he has 150 timeless productions under his belt, collaborations with acclaimed artists such as YokoO, Stereo Express and Beatamines, as well as releases on labels like Do Not Sit On The Furniture, Katermukke and 3000 Grad making Seth undeniably one to watch.

We spoke to Seth about his record label, creative influences, what he’d change about the music industry as well as what to expect in future.

To those not familiar with you, how would you describe your sound?

My sound is a unique fusion of classical and electronic music. I incorporate the electric violin into my compositions, blending it with melodic house, techno, and ambient electronica. This creates a sophisticated and uplifting soundscape that aims to evoke deep emotions and a sense of connection.

Which three albums have influenced you the most creatively?

The three albums that have had a significant influence on me are:

Arvo Pärt’s ‘Tabula Rasa’: This album’s minimalistic, yet profound approach to classical music has always inspired me.

Nils Frahm’s ‘Spaces’: The way Frahm combines classical piano with electronic elements resonates deeply with my own musical journey.

Rodriguez Jr.’s ‘Baobab’: His ability to blend organic sounds with electronic music has been a huge inspiration in my work.

Studio work and music creation, or performing and interacting with a live audience, which do you prefer?

Both aspects are essential to me, but they offer different kinds of fulfilment. Studio work allows me to experiment and perfect my sound, while performing live gives me the joy of connecting with my audience and seeing their reactions in real-time. If I had to choose, performing live might edge out slightly because of the energy exchange with the audience.

You’ve recently established your own label NASAJA, can you tell us about the vision behind the imprint?

NASAJA was created to provide a platform for innovative and genre-defying music. The vision behind the label is to support artists who are pushing the boundaries of electronic music, especially those who, like me, blend classical elements with modern electronic sounds. It’s about creating a community of like-minded musicians who are not afraid to experiment and evolve.

Do you find that social media and keeping up with your fans has become overwhelming? Which platform would you say that you enjoy engaging with the most?

Social media can indeed be overwhelming, but it is also a fantastic tool to connect with fans worldwide. I enjoy engaging with my audience on Instagram the most because it’s visually oriented, allowing me to share behind-the-scenes content, live performance snippets, and personal moments that resonate with my followers.

If you could collaborate with, or perform alongside any artist, who would it be? And why?

I would love to collaborate with Nils Frahm. His ability to blend classical and electronic music aligns perfectly with my own style. I believe that our combined sounds could create something truly unique and beautiful.

As a musician, it becomes apparent that there is a huge difference between the art and the business. Is there anything about the music scene that you would personally change?

One aspect I would like to change is the transparency and fairness in how artists are compensated, especially with streaming platforms. This is partly why I am involved in developing WeR1, a music streaming platform aimed at creating a more transparent and rewarding ecosystem for artists and their communities.

Tell us about the key pieces of equipment that you use to define your sound?

  • Genelec 8351 B
  • Genelec M040 Studio Monitors
  • Genelec Sub 7350A
  • Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro Headphones
  • UAD Apollo Twin 
  • UAD Apollo X8
  • UAD MIC
  • Mackie 1402-VLZ
  • Moog SubSequent
  • Native Instruments Komplete
  • Ableton Push 2
  • Akai APC40 MKII
  • Korg Kross Pad 3+
  • Korg Koassilator +
  • Yamaha Upright Piano
  • AKG XL II 
  • AKG C 3000
  • Native Instruments Machine
  • Sure Beta A 58 A
  • Korg Microkorg XL
  • Pioneer DJM900 Nexus 2
  • Pioneer CDJ Nexus 2000
  • Boss SY-300
  • Eventide H9
  • Tons of Softsynths, favorite Arturia Lab Series
  • Percussions stuff
  • Honer Fire Melodica
  • 5 Acoustic Violins, 3 Electric Violins (Yamaha, NS Design)
  • 4 DIY Bass Traps 3,5 m x 0,7 m x 0, 7 m 
  • Hofer Acoustic Diffusors / Absorbers

What has been your most memorable performance so far?

One of my most memorable performances was at Burning Man 2023 with my partner Lydgen (who’s a singer) on the huge stages PlayAlchemist and Playground. The energy and the connection with the audience in such a unique and open environment was truly unforgettable.

And which performance would you prefer to forget?

There was a performance early in my career where technical difficulties marred the experience. It was a humbling reminder of the importance of preparation and staying calm under pressure.

If you weren’t a musician what would you be?

If I weren’t a musician, I would be fully immersed in my medical career as a radiation oncologist, focusing on cancer research and treatment.

Tell us about any upcoming shows or releases you have in the pipeline.

Looking ahead, I am excited about the future of my label NASAJA, where I plan to release more innovative tracks and collaborations with various artists. Pretty soon, we have an upcoming release with Lydgen on 23 August with our songMatter of Time’, which had its premiere last year at Burning Man and is a true masterpiece!

I am also working on new music and preparing for upcoming performances at festivals like Burning Man and ADE. Additionally, I am actively involved in developing a new music streaming platform called WeR1, which aims to create a more transparent and rewarding ecosystem for artists and their communities. You can download the app and sign up using my invite-code SETH07.

Stream / Download ‘Radiate Love’ : HERE

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