Pioneering French Musician Ariel Kalma Passes Away at 78
Ariel Kalma, a celebrated figure in the new-age music scene, has sadly passed away at the age of 78. His death was confirmed through a statement from Rvng Intl., the record label that showcased his work throughout the 2010s. The statement revealed that Kalma had been facing various health issues in recent years, but his passing was described as sudden yet peaceful.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born in Paris in 1947, Kalma’s musical journey began with instruments like the recorder and saxophone. During his studies in computer science at the University of Paris, he met notable musicians, including Belgian-Italian singer Salvatore Adamo, who invited him to join his touring band. This experience led Kalma to learn the flute in just one week.
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, he worked with Brazilian bossa nova guitarist Baden Powell, further enriching his musical palette. Back in Paris, Kalma innovated with ReVox reel-to-reel tape recorders, enabling him to craft analog loops of saxophone and other instruments, layering them with poetry and ambient sounds, marking his initial forays into original composition.
A Transformative Journey in India
Kalma’s journey took a pivotal turn in 1974 when he traveled to India. It was here that he experienced what he described as a "heart-opening" moment during a monsoon season adventure, which he chronicled using a portable tape recorder. His time in India also introduced him to the technique of circular breathing, allowing him to create continuous drones, an essential technique that would define much of his work.
Upon returning to Paris, Kalma joined the INA-GRM Studio, recognized as a linchpin in the development of modern electronic music, and self-released his debut album, Le Temps des Moissons, in 1975.
Legacy and Contributions to Electronic Music
Kalma’s expansive discography includes dozens of albums, many of which showcased his pioneering spirit in electronic and new-age music. While a considerable amount of his recorded work remained unreleased, Rvng Intl. compiled his earlier recordings in 2014’s An Evolutionary Music (Original Recordings: 1972 – 1979).
Later in his career, Kalma became known for collaborating with younger musicians, blending his innovative style with contemporary sounds. In 2015, he partnered with Robert Aiki Aubrey Lowe on We Know Each Other Somehow, and in 2022, he released The Closest Thing to Silence with Jeremiah Chiu and Marta Sofia Honer. Aubrey Lowe reflected on Kalma’s legacy, noting him as a “true maestro” with a "wonder and enthusiasm for creative work" throughout his life.
Conclusion: The Impact of Ariel Kalma’s Work
Ariel Kalma’s unique approach to music and sound has had a lasting influence on both the new-age and electronic genres. His ability to blend traditional instrumentation with advanced recording techniques paved the way for future generations of musicians exploring the realms of ambient sounds and electronic music.
Kalma’s passing is not just the loss of a musician but a tribute to a visionary who expanded the boundaries of music. His work continues to inspire, reminding us of the profound power of sound in evoking emotions and influencing creativity. For those interested in experiencing his music, links to his work are available through various streaming platforms, ensuring his innovative spirit lives on.
