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."

 

Willy & The Sheiks: The Sound of Swing, Roots & Rhythm

William Bejedi is the charismatic frontman of Willy & The Sheiks, a seven-piece band bringing swing to life with energy, charm and a fresh twist. I spoke to William just before the band took to the stage at Buskers Bern, one of Switzerland’s biggest street festivals, where their infectious blend of original music and clever re-arrangements of timeless classics was ready to get audiences moving.

In our conversation, William takes us back to the beginning of his musical journey and the influence of his father, who inspired his love of music. Without formal music education, William taught himself by listening, observing and learning from other musicians – a journey that shaped not only his musicianship but also his understanding of music as something that is shared, experienced and passed from one person to another.

His collaboration with the Sheiks has created a band with a distinctive sound and a wonderful sense of musical freedom. William talks about the individual musicians and the way their different instruments, talents and musical backgrounds come together to create the rich, rhythmic sound of the band. From the interplay between the horns and rhythm section to the energy of the arrangements, each musician contributes something unique, creating a sound that is both rooted in swing tradition and full of new life.


William also speaks about his Cameroonian roots and offers an insight into cultural life in Cameroon, reflecting on how his heritage continues to influence and enrich his music. For him, music is not only entertainment but also a way of carrying stories, experiences and cultural identity forward.

And perhaps most personally, William talks about his own children and his hope to inspire them in the same way his father inspired him – passing on a love of music, curiosity and creativity to the next generation.

With his powerful voice, spontaneous dance moves and irresistible stage presence, William knows how to connect with an audience. But behind the performer is a musician deeply connected to his roots, his family and the musicians around him – and this conversation offers a glimpse into what makes Willy & The Sheiks such an exciting force on stage.


Every artist has a story worth hearing.


https://www.thesheiks.ch/willyandthesheiks


If you've enjoyed The Artist's Voice, you're invited to support the project through https://buymeacoffee.com/petrasittig

Every coffee helps keep meaningful conversations with artists brewing.

Thanks for listening, watching, and cheering on the arts! 


The Inspiration by Keys of Moon | https://soundcloud.com/keysofmoon

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ 


Willy & The Sheiks: The Sound of Swing, Roots & Rhythm
Petra Sittig/William Bejedi
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The artist's voicePetra SittigWilly and the sheiks, swing band