Sophie Hassfurther stands as a vibrant force in the contemporary improvised music scene, seamlessly merging both Classical and Jazz backgrounds with her deep commitment to improvisation and experimentation. Based in Vienna, she is an accomplished performer on saxophone, flute, and clarinet, as well as a prolific composer. Her music challenges conventional boundaries, encouraging listeners to rethink their understanding of music’s role and significance.
Originally hailing from a serene countryside area near Salzburg, Sophie was immersed in music from a young age. She went on to study at some of the world’s top Jazz music institutions in Vienna, Amsterdam, and New York, where she developed a distinctive musical style. Her sound is unmistakable, with an impressive range from rich, full-bodied tones to sharp, incisive passages.
Sophie has made a significant impact in the contemporary music realm, receiving multiple grants from the federal chancellery of Austria and the City of Vienna to support her endeavors. Her compositions have been spotlighted at notable events, such as the international contemporary music festival Wien Modern, and she has been commissioned by respected Jazz festivals like Outreach Schwaz. Her versatility extends to the theater, where she has composed music for various productions, and she is often sought after to enrich the repertoires of the bands in which she plays.
Her leadership in collaborative settings has garnered praise, with outlets like Jazz Podium and London Jazz News lauding her performances for their power, authentic expression and interplay. Sophie has released several critically acclaimed recordings, showcasing her innovative approach to ensemble performance. Additionally, she contributes her talents as a sidewoman on a variety of albums across genres.
Sophie’s performance resume includes appearances at prestigious venues and festivals, such as the Jazzfestival Saalfelden, North Sea Jazz Festival, Bimhuis in Amsterdam, and Nardis Jazz Club in Istanbul. She is a musician with a global perspective, collaborating with artists from South Africa, India, Latin America, Africa, and the United States. Currently, she leads a cross-generational octet named Kaleidoscope, which is set to release its debut album, and regularly performs with the VOSTOK quartet featuring Vincent Courtois, Guus Janssen, and Fie Schouten.
Through her dedication to musical exploration and her commitment to social themes, Sophie Hassfurther continues to redefine the landscape of experimental music.