MIKIs Takeover! Ensemble & Stefanie Heinzmann at Philharmonie Berlin

About the Event

When Miki Kekenj, the concertmaster, rapper, and lyricist, takes the stage with his ensemble, 'Takeover! Ensemble,' fans from both classical and pop music genres eagerly join him. In the 2023/24 season, Miki partners with Stefanie Heinzmann, who celebrates her 15th stage anniversary. Together, they deliver an emotional and funky program that breaks down the barriers between pop and classical music. This collaboration holds significant importance for the Swiss pop singer, who gained fame in 2008 with the hit song 'My Man Is A Mean Man' and subsequently performed with renowned artists like Lionel Richie and Joss Stone. Now, the audience awaits the interpretation of Stefanie's songs in the unique takeover arrangements, which transcend any stylistic boundaries.

Miki Kekenj effortlessly combines styles that are typically segregated from one another with his chamber ensemble. His talent as a virtuoso violinist allows him to translate modern songs from pop, soul, and even rap into a classical musical language. The 'Takeover! Ensemble' has already showcased their finesse and imagination in arranging music by artists like Joy Denalane, Max Herre, and Max Mutzke. Instead of the usual dense sound provided by rhythm sections, keyboards, and guitars, Miki's takeover arrangements showcase the violin, cello, clarinet, and double bass. This approach allows the music to shine in a new and unplugged light.