An Interview with Paul Rajeckas
Explore the artistry of Paul Rajeckas, distinguished for his exceptional talent in narrative craftsmanship through the mediums of movement theater and sound. Over four decades Paul has garnered acclaim for his fusion of textual elements, choreography, and ambient soundscapes, resulting in the creation of captivating, cinema-like performances. Paul has now embarked on a journey from physical storytelling to the realm of ambient music composition, seeking to engage audiences with an evocative soundscapes of auditory imagination. His compositions reflect the depth of his artistic insight and commitment to exploring novel avenues of creative storytelling with sound.
Hey, thanks for chatting with us. Tell us a little about yourself.
I’m a performing artist who has been telling tales through movement for over 40 years. Now I begin another storytelling adventure, this one is through sound.
Who or what inspired you to start making music? And, when did you start?
From the moment I learned to play Light My Fire by The Doors on the piano in the 8th grade, I was inspired to share my creativity through music. I put together my own band in High School to play my songs. Later In college, I transitioned to theater … after turning down medical school, which was crazy to some … where all my theatrical creations called out for a soundtrack. And here we are 40 years later where I want the music to speak for itself.
What is your biggest challenge as an artist?
(It has to be getting) exposure to new audiences…
What is your favorite project or single you have released?
My favorite release is the soundtrack I created for my play “Notes to the Motherland” when it premiered Off-Broadway in 2004.
Who are your inspirations? What artists or bands are you listening to?
My inspirations are from many disciplines: Charlie Chaplin, Peter Sellers, Nikolai Dance Theater, Samuel Barber, Bill Irwin, Brian Eno, etc.
What’s the process behind working on a song like?
(It starts with) finding a peaceful place to let the ideas flow without judgment.
Tell me about your upcoming music and what inspired you to create it!
My latest soundtracks are inspired by my wife’s work teaching meditation and Yoga Nidra. Her work is all about creating an internal safe space and I endeavor to compose music to help facilitate that goal.
What are your plans for 2024?
Set aside time to let the musical ideas flow!
Have any shoutouts?
I am grateful for my friends and family. Knowing that they have my back is what matters.
Paul’s upcoming projects, inspired by a desire to provide a peaceful space through sound, highlight his commitment to innovation and exploration in music. His journey reminds us of the possibilities that await when we dare to explore new paths of expression. Stay tuned for more from Rajeckas…