Hessel (18-03-1995, Zaandam) completed his Master's degree in classical viola with Marjolein Dispa and Nobuko Imai at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam in 2020.

After obtaining his master's degree, Hessel began to focus more and more on creating and producing his own music. He also started to dive deeper into the world of modular synthesizers and live electronics. This exploration led to the creation of a solo project in 2022, where he combines his viola with modular synthesizers and live electronics.

With his electronic 'one-man orchestra,' he presents a kaleidoscope of melancholic and colourful soundscapes, sometimes bordering on techno.

Hessel has performed at various festivals and venues, including De Melkweg Amsterdam, Het Grachtenfestival, Muziekgebouw aan ’t IJ, Ruigoord, and the Popronde. He was also one of the guest artists at WIES in the Kleine Komedie.

Additionally, Hessel created the music for the eight-part YouTube documentary 'Kika Stories' by the Stichting Kinderen Kankervrij.

In 2025, his debut album will be released by the label Doorway Music.

3VIOLAS

Hessel is one of the founders of 3VIOLAS, a band consisting of three violists. They compose their own music and create a completely unique style. 3VIOLAS is a popular guest at festivals, such as the Grachtenfestival in Amsterdam. They are frequently heard on Radio 4 and seen on TV shows like Podium Klassiek. In 2021, they released their debut album "Fauna," and in 2022, 3VIOLAS made their debut at Down The Rabbit Hole and Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE).

www.3VIOLAS.com

As a freelancer in the classical music world, Hessel has played with various orchestras and ensembles, such as Pynarello, Ensemble Black Pencil, and the Mahler Chamber Orchestra.

Amsterdam Andalusian Orchestra

Since 2023, Hessel is a member of the Amsterdams Andalusisch Orkest (AAO). With this orchestra, he dives into the world of Arab and Andalusian music. This orchestra also likes to make connections with different genres. This has resulted in collaborations with various artists, such as AAO & Lavinia Meijer, and performances at the Holland Festival with Sami Yusuf. Hessel, together with the AAO, has also made several international concert tours.

https://www.amsterdamsandalusischorkest.nl/

Instrument

Hessel plays a viola built by Daniel Royé. He was able to purchase this instrument with the help of the Stichting Eigen Muziekinstrument (SEM). His bow, by Charles Espey, was provided to him by the Nationaal Muziek Instrument Fonds (NMF).