Theory Therapy 13: Midori Hirano by Theory Therapy

Interview & tracklist: https://www.lowendtheorists.com/theory-therapy-mixes/13-midori-hirano

Ever since her debut album back in 2006 on Noble, few have been expertly weaving together contemporary classical, electronica and ambient like Berlin-based musician Midori Hirano. Never one to follow convention, the Kyoto native started playing the piano aged 5 but by 10, found that creating her own piano compositions was far more interesting. These days, she calls the club capital of Europe her home and regularly releases music that intriguingly blurs the lines between contemporary classical composition and ambient production. Her warm and melodic productions are based around the use of traditional instrumentation – piano, strings, guitar – but they’re just as defined by their subtle and careful use of synthesizers, drone-scapes and field recordings.

Those familiar with Hirano’s work, particularly recent releases on Australian label Daisart and Sonic Pieces, will find a lot to love in her Theory Therapy mix. The producer’s LPs have always been more than mere background music or simple algorithmic listening; pressing play on one of her albums is like stepping into another world entirely. Her mix does the same, from the immersive ambience of Baal & Mortimer to the hushed and intimate melodies of Tenniscoats, Hirano’s mix is a transportive exercise in ambient and contemporary minimalism.

@midorihirano