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Even though their musical styles and backgrounds differ in many ways there is a strong commonality. This is found in the emotional content of the compositions, identified by suggestive, ritual and meditative repetitive passages and elements as well as auditory climaxes.

An essential part of the project is Siegfried Kutterer’s extraordinary collection of gongs and instruments from Bali. They are the source of inspiration with their unrivalled possibilities of sound modulations, tunings and harmonic and melodic processes. The approach of interaction and overlaying of Mombelli’s improvised and added composed parts enables them to combine the concepts and ideas to result in a very personal an

ABOUT

Siegfried Kutterer – Classical Percussion and Composition

Siegfried Kutterer, studied classical percussion in Basel, Switzerland. Since 1977, he was a member of the Basel Symphony Orchestra. He became a member of the Basel Percussion Ensemble conducted by Paul Sacher. Kutterer played in different ensembles which performed exclusively contemporary classical music, working with some of the great classical avante-garde composers of the time such as Karlheinz Stockhausen, Pierre Boulez, & György Ligeti, including many commissioned works.

In 2008 he founded the Percussion Group „DeciBells.

In Chennai, India, he studied Mridangam and the theory of the South Indian Carnatic classical music with Sri T.V. Gopalkrishnan. Inspired by his rich experience and knowledge of Indian and Balinese music, Siegfried Kutterer began to compose himself. The result have been works strongly influenced by his experiences with other cultures. His works are published by Verlag Neue Musik Berlin and are performed worldwide by well-known soloists and ensembles.

Carlo Mombelli: Electric Bass and Composition

Known for his innovative bass playing and compositions, Mombelli redefines the role of the electric bass, using it as both a melodic and harmonic voice within his compositions. His distinctive sound blends elements of jazz, classical, and African music, creating a dynamic and emotionally rich musical experience. Whether performing as part of an ensemble or in solo contexts, Mombelli’s bass playing remains a standout feature in contemporary jazz, continuously pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the instrument.

As a composer, he draws from his South African heritage, while also embracing a global spectrum of influences, resulting in compositions that are both intellectually stimulating and deeply emotive.

A professor at Wits University’s School of Arts, Mombelli has performed and recorded with a wide range of international artists including legendary saxophonist Lee Konitz, master guitarist Mick Goodrick, Austrian virtuoso Wolfgang Muthspiel, and the celebrated Spanish drummer Jorge Rossy. These collaborations have shaped Mombelli’s distinctive voice

THE GONG PROJECT LINE-UP

• Carlo Mombelli – eBass and composition
• Siegfried Kutterer – Classical percussion and composition
• Fran Lorkovic - Classical percussion
• Dennis Kuhn – Classical percussion
• Marcus Wyatt – Horns
• Sphelelo Mazibuko – Drums