The evolution of the mythical figure Medusa fascinates. From the famous, petrifying look to her tormented life. Composer Saskia Venegas and cellist Maya Fridman shed light on the veiled story of Medusa’s abuse and transformation. In their musical narration, the duo reflect on the symptoms of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) to end with a note of strength and ascent. With this project they also pay homage to the recently deceased composer Wim Henderickx, who has taught and guided Venegas on her artistic path for years. Wim Henderickx’ Sangita for solo cello & electronics represents an ascent through the states of mind inspired by ancient Sanskrit manuscripts. The strong bond between these two composers is palpable in their shared preoccupation with the mysteries of the human mind, which challenges cellist Maya Fridman to the limits of her emotions.

Medusa was once active as a priestess in the Temple of Athena. At a crucial moment in her life, she was raped by the sea god Poseidon disguised as a bird. Athena blamed Medusa out of anger, turned her into a beastly Gorgon, and then isolated her on a remote island. For composer Saskia Venegas, the mythological Medusa symbolizes the nightmare of those who suffer from a post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of sexual abuse. With their poignant performance, the makers hope to create more awareness about the consequences of physical violence and psychological trauma. The work consists of four parts.

At the end of last year, Wim Henderickx passed away at the age of sixty. During this concert, Fridman and Venegas pay tribute to this leading Flemish composer. Fridman performs his Sangita for cello and electronics from 2019. The emotional work was originally composed as a Cello Concerto, commissioned by the Antwerp Symphony Orchestra. The Sanskrit word sangita refers to music and performance arts in Indian traditions. The composition contains nine episodes, representing different states of mind, inspired by the Sangita Ratnakara texts of the thirteenth-century Indian musicologist Sarangadeva.

Cellist Maya Fridman is artist-in-residence during November Music 2023 this year. Her versatility and virtuosity is reflected in a number of diverse concerts with violinist Garth Knox, Maarten van Veen, LudoWic, Capella Brabant and Merel Vercammen, among others. During November Music she mainly wants to profile herself as a maker.

Program:

Saskia Venegas – Medusa
Wim Henderickx – Sangita