Violinist, singer, and composer Johanna Burnheart was seton the classical path from an early age, yet she chose to follow her passion for Jazz as a solo artist. The violin being a rare instrument in the jazz world, Johanna finds herself within a niche of a niche. Her playing does not reflect the traditional approach to jazz violin made famous by players such as Stéphane Grapelli or Stuff Smith but is rather inspired by the horn giants of the modal jazz genre.

Originally a native of Berlin, Johanna was absorbed in the local sound of the techno & house scene, whose influence permeates her compositions. Her work exists at the point where modal jazz and techno meet. This is an ever developing venture as technology allows the acoustic sound of the violin to come alive electronically without compromises.

Northern Germany to becoming a “Specialist Musician” at the prestigious Wells Cathedral School, Johanna went on to participate in summer jazz programmes at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Dublin and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. This total immersion into jazz at this point provided the impetus for her to change genres definitively.

Upon this new path, Johanna spent two years in Berlin studying with some of Germany’s most renowned jazz musicians, with monthly trips to Paris for lessons with Didier Lockwood at his jazz school. Her love for the Berlin clubs and the music they represent was manifested during this time, forming the foundation of her current musical style.

The band known as Burnheart was formed in 2018, and the debut album of the same name is set for release here at Ropeadope on October 30. Preorders are now available for downloads, Compact Disc, and Vinyl LP.