"For me personally, this is the most meaningful, authentic

and exciting album of my life!"

Part IV - Suite for Dignity "Kantilene"

WHAT IS THE ALBUM DIGNITY ABOUT?

My latest project, "Dignity," is inspired by my experiences over the past 22 years with my daughter Juliette, who has severe disabilities.

It's all about respect, sincerity, hope & fear, about inclusion, courage and most importantly about dignity.

I'm grappling with some big questions:

How can I express these themes musically?

How can I create music that really moves people and reminds them of the importance of dignity?

WHAT DOES DIGNITY MEAN TO ME?

The theme of dignity is omnipresent, yet often reality and ideals diverge.

With my fifth album "Dignity" I want  to bridge this gap and tell often overlooked stories, especially about the challenges of being a mother in the music industry and the immeasurable love and dedication it takes to raise a severely disabled child.

My time with my daughter Juliette has shown me that true dignity is not dependent on external circumstances but on the inner strength and respect we show to one another.

The ability to maintain, create, and celebrate a unique form of dignity independent of social norms shares much in common with the free improvisation found in jazz.

My mission extends beyond music.

Through my work in the media, my tireless advocacy for inclusion, and as a speaker at events, I try to bring the topic of dignity into public discourse and shine a light on those who are often left in the shadows of society.

"The dignity of every human being is inviolable"

is a paragraph in the German constitution and must not just be a well-meaning sentiment, but be rediscovered in today's context and filled with real-life significance more than ever.

WHAT DOES "DIGNITY" SOUND LIKE?

"Dignity" is a hymn to life in all its facets, it's the heartbeat of my music.

From reflective melodies to powerful sounds and beats, I explore the range of human emotions and experiences.

The main part of the production is formed by the

"Suite for Dignity".

It is a multi-movement work that deals with various experiences, aspects and perceptions.

In Part II of the Suite, for example, a family questions where they belong in society. The piece begins with a questioning introduction, an “Andante cantabile” in a neoclassical style with free improvisation inserted and moves into a swinging 6/4 time signature that goes through a harmonic rollercoaster of chords.

The solos of the musicians evoke what also happens in real life when improvising:

Energy starts to vibrate, the adrenaline kicks in, breathing becomes more intense, creative thoughts spread and solutions are found.

Improvisation is a great elixir of life!

The very rare sound combination of (bass) flute, Hammond organ, guitar and drums is extraordinary, especially now in the free style mix of the compositions, which I finally allow myself to live out after all these years!

In this 5th album, I am challenging my fellow musicians to rethink the current creative process of the compositions, as I want to move more freely through genres, sounds and playing styles.

The most meaningful, authentic and exciting album of my life is in the making!

Isabelle Bodenseh

[email protected]

+49 (0)1707441526