Thomas Otten is a countertenor singer with a unique and extraordinary style.

Prior to finding his musical vocation Thomas worked as a biologist. He discovered his voice and musical talent quite late in life when he developed an interest in chamber music. He studied for a diploma in lyrical song, in France where he lives, followed by further studies in early music.

He joined several prestigious musical ensembles including Sagittarius, Akadêmia, Le Parlement de Musique, Les musiciens du Louvre, whilst continuing to develop his own musical style.

When Composer Frédéric Momont met Thomas he felt that Otten's vocals would suit perfectly the type of classical crossover music he wanted to work on. Close to silence, Portraits, Open wings and The two voices had been released from this collaboration.

At the same time, Thomas discovered shakuhachi through Tilopa on Magnatune, and was immediately fascinated by the sound of this instrument, its range and possibilities of expression, so similar to those of the human voice. Bamboo flute allows to make the breath sounding with a remarkable degree and varying inflections to infinity. So, 10 years later, with great enthusiasm, he replied to Kyle, who asked him to improvise vocals while playing his instrument, giving to him the opportunity to combine music with his great interest in music therapy.

A first meeting in France in August 2010, proved very exciting. A one week stay in Beirut in October 2011, allowed them to develop and record their first musical explorations, and to continue, since then, with digital exchanges.

Photo credit: Walid El Khatib Photography

Born in Lebanon, Kyle Kamal Helou, in his search for harmony, began his Shakuhachi exploration in the mid 90's. He resided in Japan for nearly 10 years where he continued his formal studies of the instrument. In 2009 he returned to his homeland where he currently teaches both shakuhachi and Shotokan Karate-Do.

Writings on the subject of the shakuhachi can be found in Japan as early as the VI century. From the VII to XI centuries, the Shakuhachi became one of the main instruments used during performances at the Emperial Court. After that, however, it was withdrawn from the orchestra during the music reform in Japan.

In the XIII century the shakuhachi was reintroduced in Japan from China, through the Fuke branch of Zen Buddhism, by the great master Hottô. It was considered as a breathing tool to reach inner peace and enlightenment.

Following the Meiji Restoration in 1871, the Fuke sect was dismantled, and the shakuhachi neared extinction. However, through the efforts of a few individuals, the shakuhachi remained as a musical instrument and recitals in public with three instruments (Shakuhachi, Koto, Shamisen) were then privileged to those who received permits from the Emperor. The contemplative solo practice eventually made its way back gradually and it is from this time that the shakuhachi became the instrument of choice among the urban middle classes of society.

You can find out more about Thomas on his website and Kyle on his Facebook page.

Transcend to Void