Remember Who You Are - Q&A with Zara Hudson-Kozdoj

At DEBUT, we love being able to explore all aspects of the UK classical music landscape, from opera to new contemporary releases.

Remember Who You Are is the stunning yet-to-be-released album by Polish-Jamaican cellist, composer & conductor - Zara Hudson-Kozdoj.
Hannah had the pleasure of having a listen to the album and chat with Zara.

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Born and bred in North London, Zara was awarded a scholarship and bursary to study at the Royal College of Music where she completed both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Cello Performance and Conducting.
In summer 2024, Zara completed a residency at Studio Richter-Mahr (an opportunity given to her by Max Richter and Yulia Mahr for emerging artists) where she recorded her debut album. The album encompasses many genres and styles that have influenced her throughout her life and can be thought of as a soundtrack to her experiences.

Welcome Zara!
From listening to your background, there are some very clear and strong cultural influences present - making it a truly unique listen in the contemporary-classical landscape. Tell us a bit about your background?

I grew up in North London. My parents are Polish and Jamaican and I spend a lot of time in both those countries.
I came from very humble beginnings, my parents were on benefits, but through various scholarships and bursaries managed to attend a private secondary school, Junior Guildhall and Chetham’s School of Music for free.

Tell us about your new record.
What was the background and inspiration for the composition?

I've composed little pieces all my life, along with other creative outlets such as writing poetry. I studied electronic composition at the RCM, and after finishing my postgraduate and working with various non-classical artists, I decided to start my own project under my own name. I wanted to show the cello as a versatile instrument and that it can be used in lots of different and accessible genres. So I embarked on a soundtrack to my life.

How was the experience recording at the famous Studio Richter Mahr?

Studio Richter Mahr is the most amazing place!
Max and his partner Yulia are the most inspirational and supportive couple. The grounds of the studio are so calming and it's a wonderful place to form ideas away from the chaos of London freelancing life.

I have recorded for and toured with Max for the past 3 years and we have a good friendship. He has been really helpful as a mentor and has such a wonderful open mind.

When is the album out for everyone to listen to?

When I get some label support...

Have you got any shows coming up in the near future - so we can hear some of your work?

Yes! Coming up:
4th March at Troubadour
1st May at Bar Doña

Check out a BTS video from the recording session!

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