Vigdis Hansa Elst quartet

This quartet started during the fall of 2023 and focusses on Vigdis' compositions for improvising musicians. Lyrics are written in Dutch, English or without words, depending on what the music asks for in terms of intimacy or universality. The music varies from raw and simple to complex harmonic and melodic puzzles.

Vigdis Hansa Elst (vocals/composition, b. 1991) began her musical journey on violin and later studied classical composition with Wim Henderickx at the Royal Conservatory of Antwerp, graduating in 2018. With a strong interest in improvisation, she also trained in jazz vocals. She composes for choirs, chamber ensembles, and her own projects, often blending poetry, composition, and improvisation. Based in Brussels since 2020. 

Joseph Nowell (piano, b. 1994) studied classical piano in Siena before focusing on jazz, earning a master’s degree at the Royal Conservatory of Antwerp. He is active in contemporary jazz and free improvisation projects. 

Manolo Cabras (double bass, b. 1971) studied experimental composition and violin before turning to double bass. After a jazz master’s degree in the Netherlands, he settled in Brussels, where he is a key figure in many projects, performing and recording extensively. 

Gaspard Sicx (drums, b. 1994) studied in Antwerp and Brussels and won the Toots Thielemans Jazz Award in 2022. He is active as a sideman and bandleader, having collaborated with artists such as Alexandra Grimal and Harmen Fraanje.