The North & South of Jon Hassell: A Fundraiser
Support the Jon Hassell Fund Via Gofundme
For Jon Hassell, our world is one that is brimming with cross-pollination and formation. In every moment, innumerable new hybridisations are given rise to by the unique influence of one thing upon another - one context upon the other. In his music, these ideas are given life as he paints for his listeners a diverse range of abstract, often quasi-psychedelic musical landscapes from a pallet bursting with diverse cultural and technological influences. Importantly, each influence is treated with uncompromising respect, preserving in each thing its unique dignity, celebrating it for itself, even when it appears surrounded by that which is similar or completely dissimilar to it.
As a believer that all music is embodied philosophy, Hassell’s theories surrounding music and life are a primary influence upon his music-making and vice-a-versa, revealing an approach that is powerfully holistic and philosophically-lived. Brian Eno notes:
‘He’s a tireless and articulate theorist, as well as a great musician’. 'His theories are as elegant and as attractive as his music: because in fact his music is the embodiment of those theories’.
Hassell’s respect for difference, the unknown, and the imagined, alongside his seemingly unshakeable dedication to the creation of new ideas, new perspectives, and new ways of playing explode from his music with revolutionary force. As an instrumentalist, Hassell's visionary outlook and commitment to learning and experimentation have seen him repeatedly redefine the sound and technical potential of the trumpet, though his innovation is not limited to the instruments he performs on. Those who become familiar with his work will begin to hear his voice in every corner of the music, in each instrument, and in the phrases of those he performs with.
Hassell’s visions of possible futures scored with music that serves equally the mind and the body, and his belief that truly knowing oneself and what one likes is the gateway to treating what one does and what others do with the highest amount of respect have been wholly instilled in an original body of work that is at the same time profoundly intellectual and undeniably felt.
Due to health related concerns and risks brought forth by the current global pandemic, Jon Hassell is currently experiencing difficult times. His friends and family are calling on those who have been touched by his music to support via Gofundme.
Please if you are able, consider donating in support of Jon Hassell. If you are not able to donate, please consider sharing his fundraiser page with other's you think may like to.