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Progressive Rock Interviews

Soniq Theater

Interviewed by Gary Hill
Interview with Alfred Mueller of Soniq Theater from 2012
MSJ:

Can you catch the readers up on the history of your involvement in music –leading up to and including the Soniq Theater project?

From 1974 to 1979 I took organ lessons. From 1980 to 1997 I played keyboards in several bands of which Rachel’s Birthday signed to a label and released an album in 1996, and from 1997 I’m an independent solo artist.

MSJ:

If you weren't involved in music what do you think you'd be doing?

Nothing else, I’m happy that I can do my music. I had an office job that made me sick.

MSJ:

How did the name "Soniq Theater" originate?

Two explanations, the first: I play keyboards of ENSONIQ and 25 years ago I played in a local theater group as an amateur actor which was a great experience for me, and also very inspiring for my later music. The second explanation is: my Soniq Theater music is often very filmic, cinematic and also theatrical.

MSJ:

Who would you see as your musical influences?

Really a lot - on the Soniq Theater website they are listed. Well, symphonic progressive rock, electronic music, fusion, classical music, and also world music

MSJ:

What's ahead for you?

The next Soniq theater album, which will hopefully be released in 2013

MSJ:

I know artists hate to have their music pigeonholed or labeled, but how would you describe your music?

A mix of keyboard based progressive rock, electronica, fusion, classical music and some traces of world music and other ingredients

MSJ:

How do you keep it fresh and change things from disc to disc?

Well maybe due to the many influences I have and due to my big fantasy.

MSJ:

Are there musicians with whom you would like to play with in the future?

Not really, but in my archive I have some recordings that I made with some guitarists and one vocalist…maybe I release them on future albums.

MSJ:

Do you think that illegal downloading of music is a help or hindrance to the careers of musicians?

Illegal downloading is, of course, not good for the music industry…for signed artists that want to earn money with their music. For me as an independent artist, I have to say, I’m an idealist.  I know that I cannot make much money with my music, but my intention is to spread my music as far as possible, so I give my music away for free download at the Soniq Theater website.

MSJ:

What was the last CD you bought and/or what have you been listening to lately?

Lots of more or less not very known newer progressive rock bands, especially from Sweden and from the USA. I think Brother Ape was the last of these bands. Also lately a very interesting Australian band/project called “Unitopia.”

MSJ:

Have you read any good books lately?

No not really, I read much in the web, that’s sufficient for me. I had a time when I interested in esoteric spiritual books, the latest I read had the title “The Power of Karma.”

MSJ:

What about the last concert you attended for your enjoyment?

Since eleven years I saw no concerts, due to health problems, but before that, I have seen many of the known prog bands live

MSJ:

Are there any closing thoughts you would like to get out there?

Stay progressive, not only in what you listen but also in what you think!
MSJ: This interview is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: 2012  Volume 3 at lulu.com/strangesound.
 
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