Who’s There?
Celia Swart
In "Who’s There?", Celia Swart transforms a childhood nightmare into an intense, immersive piece for XTRO Percussion. The composition gives sound to the fear of the unknown, with Miguel Varela’s breathing as the heartbeat of the piece. The journey from panic to surrender culminates in a brave confrontation with the unseen presence behind the door.
Who’s There? is a haunting and immersive exploration of fear, based on the personal experiences of composer Celia Swart. The piece began as a recurring nightmare during her youth, where she would be alone in her house, terrified by the unknown presence behind a door. The fear of something trying to break in would provoke a desperate struggle with the door, but the source of the danger was never revealed. This cycle of confusion and dread became a central theme in Swart's composition.Through XTRO Percussion—featuring performers Antonio Bove, Gabriele Segantini, and Miguel Varela—the nightmare is channeled into music, with the breathing of the performer (Varela) serving as a reaction to the fear. The piece portrays the journey through various stages of anxiety and tension, ultimately leading to a moment of surrender, where the door is opened and the unknown is finally faced. This composition turns the artist's personal fear into a sonic experience, giving form and expression to what was once inescapable.Composition and Artistic Direction: Celia SwartD.O.P, Lighting, Edit, and Colour Grading: VidamirPerformers: XTRO Percussion (Miguel Varela, Gabriele Segantini, Antonio Bove)Breathing and Artistic Mix: Celia SwartSound Recording and Mastering: Luuk van LeeuwenDoor Frame Construction: Rob van den Broek/QEMActing Coach: Yolanda de GreeuwSpecial Thanks: Eli Dorsman, Arjen Bijtelaer, Pink, Vincent van den Ouden, Jos Eilert, Esther Gottschalk, Dutch Composers Now, Prins Bernhard Culture Fund, Buma Cultuur, Social Buma