Julius Asal - Siena Loops

Information

1. Intro
2. January Zero
3. Cascade II (ConcertLab Version)
4. Maurice Ravel - Prélude in A Minor, M. 65 (Upright Version)
5. Cascade III (ConcertLab Version)
6. Cascade IV (ConcertLab Version)

Julius Asal, piano & composition

Date: 2026

Label: Deutsche Grammophon (DG)

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Pianist Julius Asal continues expanding his distinctive artistic vision with the EP Siena Loops, a project that deepens the Ravel-inspired sonic universe introduced in his previous Deutsche Grammophon release, Siena Tapes. Through spontaneous improvisations, live recordings from ConcertLab Utrecht, and integrated electronic textures, Asal approaches the concept of loops as hypnotic, evolving transformations rather than simple repetition. Central to the collection are his dynamic "Cascades"—improvisational works that continuously reshape their identities with each performance. Ultimately, the EP offers an intimate and immersive narrative, blending fresh musical perspectives to convey nuanced shades of simplicity, beauty, and quiet melancholy.

German pianist Julius Asal (b. 1997) has quickly emerged as one of the leading interpreters of his generation. A former student of Oliver Kern, Eldar Nebolsin, and Sir András Schiff at Kronberg Academy, he has also benefited from guidance by Alfred Brendel, Gidon Kremer, and other renowned musicians. Asal appears regularly at major festivals such as Rheingau, Gstaad, and Davos, and in venues including Wigmore Hall, Wiener Musikverein, Suntory Hall, and New York’s Merkin Concert Hall. A passionate chamber musician, he co-founded the Arcon Trio and collaborates widely. His acclaimed 2022 Prokofiev debut album earned multiple awards, and in 2023 he became an exclusive Deutsche Grammophon artist.

High Resolution 24-bit / 48 kHz