Hessel (March 18, 1995, Zaandam) completed his master’s degree in Classical Viola under Marjolein Dispa and Nobuko Imai at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam in 2020.
After earning his master’s degree, Hessel began to focus more and more on composing and creating his own music. He has also delved deeper and deeper into the world of modular synthesizers and live electronics. This exploration led to the creation of a solo project in 2022, in which he combines his viola with modular synthesizers and live electronics.
With his electronic “one-man orchestra,” he presents a kaleidoscope of melancholic and colorful soundscapes that sometimes border on techno.
Hessel has performed at various festivals and venues, including Down The Rabbit Hole, 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.
In addition, Hessel composed the music for the eight-part YouTube documentary “Kika Stories” by Stichting Kinderen Kankervrij.
In 2025, his debut EP was released on the Doorway Music label.
In 2026, Hessel produced and performed the music for the new theater production “Wat Als?” by actor Nasrdin Dchar.
3VIOLAS
Hessel is one of the founders of 3VIOLAS, a band consisting of three violists. They compose their own music and have developed a completely unique style. 3VIOLAS is a welcome guest at festivals, such as the Grachtenfestival in Amsterdam. They are regularly featured on Radio 4 and appear on TV programs like “Podium Klassiek.” In 2021, they released their debut album “Fauna,” and in 2022, 3VIOLAS made their debut at Down The Rabbit Hole and the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE).
Amsterdam Andalusian Orchestra
Since 2023, Hessel has been a permanent member of the Amsterdam Andalusian Orchestra (AAO). With this orchestra, he delves into the world of Arabic and Andalusian music. The orchestra also enjoys drawing connections with various genres. This has resulted in collaborations with various artists, such as the AAO & Lavinia Meijer, and performances during the Holland Festival with Sami Yusuf. Hessel has also undertaken several international concert tours with the AAO.
https://www.amsterdamsandalusischorkest.nl/
Hessel plays a viola built by Daniel Royé. He was able to purchase this instrument in part thanks to the assistance of the Stichting Eigen Muziekinstrument (SEM). His bow, made by Charles Espey, was provided to him by the Muziekinstrumentfonds.
