Jan Michiels Concerts

Experience Jan Michiels

Jan Michiels is a Belgian composer, pianist, and sound artist renowned for his minimalist and subtly evolving compositions. Born in 1953, Michiels initially studied classical piano but diverged towards experimental music in the 1970s, heavily influenced by figures like Morton Feldman and John Cage. He’s particularly known for his long-duration pieces, often exceeding an hour, that explore microtonal harmonies and the acoustic properties of spaces.

Michiels' work frequently incorporates prepared piano techniques – altering the instrument’s sound with objects placed on or between the strings – creating delicate, percussive textures. He has released albums on influential labels like Sub Rosa and Room40, garnering critical acclaim for albums such as *Piano Contact* (2016) and *Degrees of Separation* (2018).

Beyond composing and performing, Michiels is a dedicated educator, teaching at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels. His music is characterized by its meditative quality and focus on timbre, offering a unique sonic experience that bridges contemporary classical, ambient, and experimental genres. He consistently challenges traditional notions of musical structure and perception.