Petra Sittig Photography - Vienna, Austria
Petra Sittig Photography - Photoshoots for Artists and Professionals
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The artist's voice -Podcast

The Artist's voice is a platform for artists to talk about and showcase their form of art. Inviting all artists to express their love for what they do and use this platform to give an insight into their world. All dancers, choreographers, teachers, musicians, singers, composers, creators of art; this is the place to show and tell.

The Artist’s voice

Inspired during the initial COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020, my project was sparked by witnessing the struggles of my children, ballet dancers at the Vienna State Opera, unable to practice their craft due to isolation. Initially a small photography endeavor, capturing artists at their windows, it swiftly transformed into a symbol of solidarity for the arts community.

The repercussions of this pandemic will echo throughout the artistic and cultural sectors for years to come. Thus, I felt compelled to shed light on the plight of creative individuals and organizations, advocating for their recognition and support. Through this project, I aimed to amplify artists' voices, offering a platform for their stories and perspectives. If they can't grace the stage, they should still be seen and heard.

Vienna, a bastion of culture, served as a fitting backdrop for my efforts, with its rich artistic heritage and diverse community. I've photographed over 500 artists, including musicians, dancers, and opera stars, alongside ambassadors from various nations, all standing in solidarity with Vienna's artistic community.

The arts, often overlooked, are integral to society's fabric, shaping our collective identity and enriching our lives. They transcend language and borders, offering solace and inspiration in times of turmoil. By spotlighting Vienna's cultural legacy, I hope to instill a greater appreciation for the arts worldwide. Moreover, I've witnessed firsthand the resilience of artists in the face of adversity. Despite canceled performances and financial hardships, their unwavering passion for their craft fuels a newfound creativity. Their optimism is palpable, radiating hope through every photograph.

Through this project, I aim to educate future generations on the importance of the arts, advocating for its integration into education systems worldwide. By nurturing creativity and fostering appreciation for the arts, we can build a more empathetic and harmonious society.Ultimately, my goal is to spark dialogue and action, ensuring that the arts and artists are valued and supported in our modern world. Through interviews with artists globally, I seek to understand their experiences and explore solutions for securing the future of the arts.

In essence, this project is a testament to the resilience and vitality of the human spirit, as embodied by artists around the world. Their stories remind us of the transformative power of art and the boundless possibilities it offers for a brighter future."

 

Corinna Rogers: Bringing the Hammered Dulcimer to Nashville's Bluegrass Scene

In this episode of The Artist's Voice, I had the pleasure of speaking with hammered dulcimer player Corinna Rogers, an accomplished musician currently based in Nashville, Tennessee, who originally comes from Upper Austria.

Corinna shares her fascinating musical journey, which began in Austria where she was first introduced to the hammered dulcimer. She reflects on her early music education and explains the rich history of the instrument in Austrian folk traditions. The hammered dulcimer has long been an important part of the folk music heritage of the Alpine regions, where its bright, resonant sound accompanied traditional dances, village celebrations, and cultural gatherings. Passed down through generations, the instrument remains a beautiful link between history and contemporary folk music.

During our conversation, Corinna talks about what inspired her to leave Austria and pursue a musical career in Nashville, one of the world's most influential music cities. She discusses how warmly the hammered dulcimer has been embraced by fellow musicians, despite being a relatively uncommon instrument in many contemporary settings. Its distinctive tone adds a fresh and captivating dimension to performances, making it an exciting instrument for collaboration.

One of Corinna's greatest passions is working with artists from diverse musical backgrounds. She enjoys exploring unexpected musical combinations and creating new sounds that emerge when different genres and traditions meet. These creative collaborations continue to inspire her and allow the hammered dulcimer to reach audiences in fresh and innovative ways.

Since settling in Nashville, Corinna has found a welcoming musical community and discovered a deep appreciation for bluegrass music. While the hammered dulcimer is not traditionally associated with bluegrass in the same way as the banjo, fiddle, or mandolin, Corinna demonstrates how beautifully the instrument can complement the genre. Its shimmering melodies and rhythmic versatility bring a unique voice to bluegrass, enriching both traditional and contemporary performances. 


Corinna Rogers: Bringing the Hammered Dulcimer to Nashville's Bluegrass Scene
Petra Sittig/Corinna Rogers
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Petra SittigHammered Dulcimer, Nashville bluegrass