Jozef Van Wissem’s mission to bring the lute back with a loud sound
orld’s most notorious contemporary lutenist, possesses a vast collection of eight string instruments, some custom-made and all with unique features. Through these instruments, Van Wissem has produced an extensive body of work, boasting nearly 50 titles up to now, with the release of his new album, “This Is My Blood,” slated for this May.
Every Easter, Van Wissem immerses himself in composing a new record. Finding the tranquility of Warsaw more conducive to work than the noisy environment of Rotterdam, where he also resides, allows him to focus on his creative process without any disturbances. During his composition process, Van Wissem often comes across traditional themes or melodies that resonate with him, which he describes as “stealing.” However, this act of “stealing” is more about reinterpretation rather than direct copying, as the classical lute repertoire is vast and open to various interpretations due to the array of tunings the instrument can have.
Not confined by traditional norms, Van Wissem is recognized for his film scores work, notably collaborating with indie film icon Jim Jarmusch’s band SQÜRL for the soundtrack of “Only Lovers Left Alive.” His upcoming album features music composed for filmmaker Joaquim Pujol’s documentary, “Màquina,” exploring themes of psychedelic experiences in the Colorado desert as a remedy for alcoholism. Introducing innovative techniques like bottleneck slide compositions, Van Wissem’s unconventional approach attracts experimental music enthusiasts while driving away classical purists during live performances, reflecting his rebellious spirit.
Van Wissem’s unconventional attitude toward the lute stems from his early experiences in the Dutch punk scenes of the early 1980s, marked by defiance and a rejection of traditional music standards. He views his mission as restoring the lute to its former status as a popular instrument, challenging academic circles’ perception of the instrument as inferior. Engaged in what he calls “lute wars” with traditionalists, Van Wissem often faces opposition when suggesting new methods or modifications to the instrument, advocating for amplification to showcase the lute’s full potential as a rock instrument capable of captivating audiences.
Having explored various music genres and social movements throughout his life, Van Wissem’s journey from punk rocker to esteemed lutenist embodies a spirit of rebellion and defiance against established norms. His time in New York, studying under lutenist Patrick O’Brien and encountering a transformative approach to music, further solidified his commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging conventional practices within the lute community. While his nonconformist stance may not resonate with everyone, Van Wissem’s unwavering dedication to making the lute a relevant and captivating instrument continues to inspire aspiring musicians to explore unconventional paths in music.