Combining the intimacy of chamber music with the boldness of rock, Fermata weaves together a sound that is fresh and invigorating. The union of traditional string instruments with hard-edged rock ballads and complex song structures forms the foundation of what Fermata calls “acoustic chamber rock.” Fermata aims to push the limits of acoustic string music by blurring the lines between traditional genres such as classical, pop, folk, rock and bluegrass and finding new techniques to pull percussion and energy from stringed instruments.
In 2005 Jon Koschoreck founded Fermata as a way to bring his music to audiences. As Fermata’s lead songwriter and guitarist, Koschoreck has been the major force behind the music, helping to guide the group as it searches to be original and profound. The inspiration for many of Fermata’s songs comes from personal experiences as well as fiction. Some of the songs are based on Koschoreck’s novellas, giving the songs additional depth and detail. In all of the songs, Fermata aims to combine melody and harmony with the poetry of the words to create art that is dramatic and moving.
Originating as an electric rock group, Fermata was retooled in 2007 as an acoustic ensemble. The acoustic instruments match Koschoreck’s earthy, organic musical style. After bringing classically trained vocalist Lisa Mazza and bassist Cody Davis into the group, Fermata moved towards its new sound by recruiting Matt Manske on the mandolin and Karl Stuen on the viola. The stand-up bass forms the percussive and harmonic foundation of the ensemble with guitar and mandolin filling out the chords, harmony and rhythm. Soprano vocals intertwine with the viola to create haunting melody and counter-melody lines that soar through the aural textures. Coming from diverse backgrounds in rock, classical, jazz, and hip-hop music, the musicians of Fermata strive to break new ground with a sound that is both accessible and unique.
Fermata is currently recording its first full-length album at Paradyme Studios, Madison, WI. Instrumentation
Lisa Mazza - Lead vocals Cody Davis - Double bass Jon Koschorek - Guitar, vocals Matt Manske - Mandolin, banjo, accordion Karl Stuen - Viola, violin, vocals Discography
EP released July 2008.
Tracks on EP: Gypsy Blood, Zura, Cliffs.
Hear it in the EPK or at www.myspace.com/fermata. Links
