Prominent figures in the Canadian classical music scene, Karl Hirzer and Josué Valdepeñas perform standard works from the modern and classical repertoire in addition to original songs, mixing electronic and acoustic instruments. Drawing from a wide variety of influences, their music has been described as “heady and psychedelic” and “Satie meets Radiohead”.

Based on Hirzer and Valdepeñas’ track of the same name, CRYSTAL CLEAR is an innovative and gripping music and dance film. It follows a young woman who undertakes a visceral journey through her own psyche as she reflects on both her actions and the events that will decide her fate. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Braden Dereniwski, it features captivating performances by Kelsi Vanstone and Ashley Mae Johnston, with choreography by Yukichi Hattori. The filmmaker acknowledges the support of the Canada Council for the Arts and Calgary Arts Development.

Featuring and inspired by Hirzer’s track Daphne and Desmond, off his recent album Relaxer Distractor, IN TANDEM is a short film shot on Super 8 by award-winning filmmaker Vicki Van Chau. It is a love letter to the meaningful spaces between two cities, where Hirzer found sources of inspiration, nostalgia, and the feeling of home. Recently it received the ‘Best Experimental’ award at the 2024 Edmonton Short Film Festival. The film is supported by the Alberta Media Art Alliance Society and the Calgary Society of Independent Filmmakers.