Hi! What inspired you to create “Winter Tale,” and how does it reflect your musical journey and growth as an artist?
A: I always dreamed about making a Christmas album as a child. Sonically, it’s a return to my roots and an homage to my love for classical music.
How did you blend European folk and classical influences to create the unique sound of “Winter Tale”?
A: We decided to stick to a minimalistic orchestration (harp, double bass, sometimes cello). Traditional melodies were implemented in the choral parts of the record.
Can you share some insights into the recording process of “Winter Tale,” including the challenges you faced and the breakthrough moments you experienced?
A: We recorded in two locations: Geneva (Switzerland) and Budapest (Hungary). The executive producer, András Bolyki, operated from Budapest and oversaw the complete recording process. Recording took place during the pandemic and social distancing was a real obstacle in getting the choral parts done as we couldn’t have 24 unmasked people in the same room. Travelling was also less easy, I could only participate in Alexander Boldachev’s recording session of the harp in Geneva.
Your favorite song from “Winter Tale” is “White Bird.” Can you tell us more about the meaning behind this song and why it holds a special place in your heart?
A: It’s the most sentimental track on the record that compares love to a playful, elusive, gentle white bird. Even though this bird might seem docile, you can put it in a cage, clip its wings, but one can never truly master it, as it will fly away when it decides to and when the opportunity arises. As one can’t master love, it’s volatile.
How did the collaborations with other artists, such as Sonia Grimm and Erika Miklósa, come about for “Winter Tale”?
A: I reached out to them via e-mail. I always looked up to Sonia and Erika, admired their work, and I’m truly honoured that great artists of this caliber accepted to collaborate on my project.
How have your classical training and Hungarian origins influenced the creation of “Winter Tale”?
A: Definitely. The choice of instruments, the melodies sung by the choir and the whole concept in general has been influenced by my classical training.
Your background includes not only music but also medical school and mental health awareness. How do these experiences shape your music and songwriting?
A: I suppose you can’t separate your daily life from the songs you write and my real life experience as a doctor does infiltrate insidiously into my work.
What message do you hope listeners take away from “Winter Tale”?
A: The importance of introspection, to slow down from time to time and to take a moment to reflect on what’s going on in our lives.
Can you share any memorable moments or stories from the making of “Winter Tale”?
A: Still in the middle of the pandemic, during the recording of the harp, we were in a studio in Geneva, while András was at home in Hungary, live streaming the session and instructing Alexander in real time. Technology can come really handy sometimes!
What are your future plans and projects as an artist, and how do you see your music evolving in the coming years?
A: I’m constantly working on new material and will probably release a new album next year, if everything goes according to plan. I wish to grow both as a songwriter and a performer.