Hauschka is the recording name of Volker Bertelmann, a composer and pianist from Kreuztal, Germany, born in 1966. He lives in Düsseldorf, where he has lived since moving there from Cologne in 1990. Bertelmann studies classical piano for ten years before beginning to record under the Hauschka name in 2004.

Music and approach

Hauschka’s work centres on the prepared piano, with Bertelmann altering the instrument by placing materials such as leather, felt, rubber, aluminium paper, rough film, crown corks, guitar strings and gaffa tape on or between the strings and hammers. This creates music that uses the piano both melodically and percussively. His style also draws on electronica and Indonesian gamelan, alongside influences from minimalism and composers such as Satie and Ravel. He sometimes adds synthesizer, drum machine, electric bass, vibraphone, strings and brass.

His pieces range from small rhythmic sound vignettes to quiet ballads, and the prepared-piano technique links his work to earlier experimental composers including Henry Cowell and John Cage. His music also sits within a wider history of altered piano sounds in experimental and popular music.

Releases and collaborations

Before joining FatCat’s 130701 imprint, Hauschka releases Substantial and The Prepared Piano on Karaoke Kalk, and the 7-inch What A Day on Ear Sugar. His first release for 130701 is Room To Expand, followed by Ferndorf and the EP Snowflakes and Carwrecks. Ferndorf features more extensive arrangements than the earlier solo-focused work, including a string duo on several tracks.

Outside the solo project, Bertelmann is a member of Music A.M., with Stefan Schneider of To Rococco Rot and Luke Sutherland of Long Fin Killie, and of the electronic and club-oriented duo Tonetraeger with Torsten Mauss.

Live work

Hauschka’s first live performances in the UK and USA take place in 2007, including support slots for múm.