Petra Hermanova (CZ)

Source: Spotify

Petra Hermanova works at the intersection of the transcendent and the earthly. In 2018, the Berlin-based artist began working with the autoharp and it has since become the central pillar of her musical practice. Drawing inspiration from folk, medieval composition, and contemporary textural expressions, as well as Appalachian autoharp music, she writes music which drifts between song and heavy distorted drones.

Her solo debut In Death​’​s Eyes is set for release in October 2023. Over nine tracks, Hermanova utilizes autoharp, voice, and pipe organ in techniques from both folk and sacred traditions to grapple with the spiritual and earthly dimensions of devastating loss and bereavement. In a disciplined display of beauty, pain, and astute musicianship, Hermanova brings forth a notable accomplishment of an album, which features the acclaimed organist Denny Wilke playing the 19th century Ladegast organ of the Merseburg Cathedral. In Death’s Eyes confronts death from start to finish with a rare fervor that leaves one feeling it was utterly necessary for Hermanova to produce - to survive.

Petra Hermanova has toured internationally with previous projects, including extensive sound and visual collaborations with Jon Eirik Boska (Hydropsyche) as well as with her award-winning band Fiordmoss. She was recently announced as a SHAPE+ platform artist for 2023/24.