Welcome back to this week’s edition of Small Ears. Today we are changing the tone a little bit with an artist that produces non-vocal music using a variety of instruments (Vibraphone, glockenspiel, analog synthesizers and field recordings) to produce something both unique and mesmerizing. These hypnotizing vibes came from the diversity of his tools, but most of all from his mind. He has already performed in a plethora of places as you can see on his website, so there are some chances you already heard about him. This article can easily be read while listening to one of his pieces, try the experience!
Can you present yourself in a few words? Where is your artist name coming from?
I am a composer and vibraphonist working within the realms of electroacoustic music, classical music, and ambient music. My artist name is just my given name, Telo Hoy.
How do you start your day?
I usually make coffee and check my email, though I'm trying to move away from this habit and start with a more creative gesture. Usually I find that if I get the checking out of the way first, then I can focus more deeply on music afterwards.
When did you start your musical career? What motivated you to start it?
Since I was very young, I've known I wanted to be a musician. I was playing on pots and pans as if they were drums in my kitchen. I've been motivated to make music for a long time, though I move slowly in the creative process.
What genre of music do you play?
This is always a difficult question to answer. I find myself making music that falls somewhere between classical, electronic, ambient, and experimental.
Is there an event, an artist or a band that inspired you?
I've been inspired by the late composer Jóhann Jóhannsson for a long time, as I find his music to be incredibly masterful, and his career as a touring musician and film composer is one I look up to.
Is your music your principal work? If not, what else are you doing?
Music is my principal creative work, though I work as an audio/visual technician as my day job. I also do graphic design for a magazine my partner and I started called The Documentarian.
What is the process behind your mind while creating a new piece of music?
I try to begin my compositions without a computer, working in front of the instrument with a pencil and paper. Most of my pieces begin with a small musical cell or tonal area, which I then work on expanding while maintaining the integrity of the music.
Where do you perform most of the time? On which platform is your music available?
I perform mostly in the northeast US, often at venues that double as restaurants, bars, or art galleries. My music is currently only available on Bandcamp, but I will be putting music on streaming services soon.
Where is THE place or country you would like to perform?
I'd love to perform at Funkhaus Berlin. It's one of the most beautiful venues I've ever seen/heard.
What are the songs you want to share with people that don’t know your music?
My recent track "Schoolhouse", as well as my piece "Tin Foil" are good places to start for people who haven't heard my music.
Which artists do you listen to when you are composing or playing your music?
So many. I try to stay up to date within a few musical scenes that I see myself as connected to, but I also make sure that I listen outside of that. Most recently I've been listening to Nils Frahm's recent album "Music for Animals" and Florist's self-titled album.
Do you have other hobbies? If yes, can you tell a little bit more about them?
Yes! I love film photography, and taking film photos when I'm out and about. I also love biking, hiking and other activities outdoors.
Was there a moment you wanted to give up on music?
There hasn't been yet, although I often wonder what a life without music would look like, but I can't imagine myself not making music.
Is there an artist you would like to make a song with?
I'd love to collaborate with Clarice Jensen, who is an incredible cellist and composer.
What is the song you are the most proud of?
It hasn't come out yet!
What are you using to record your performance ? Are you doing everything by yourself?
I'm currently working on a solo album and I have recorded everything in a room in my apartment that I soundproofed. I use two condenser microphones and a USB interface.
If you could recommend a small group or artist to people, which one would it be and why?
Elori Saxl is an artist and friend who I look up to. We make similar music, and her latest album "The Blue of Distance" is one I heavily recommend.
Do you have any new songs in preparation? If so, can you give us a little hint about it?
Yes! I'm currently working on a solo album. I can't say too much about it, other than the fact that it has been many years in the making and I'm really excited to share it.
What are the places where people can follow you?
Instagram | Twitter | Bandcamp | Soundcloud
So, are you in trance now? Wake up then because it’s time to say goodbye to Telo Hoy! Don’t forget to check out his work (soon on streaming platforms, but already on Soundcloud) and follow him on his socials! That’s it for me seeing you next week!
Find us also on Twitter and Instagram - @thesmallears
Not my usual cup o' tea, Kryze, but I'm glad I took a sip! Well presented, and wonderful questions!✨😉👍