In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Karen Salicath, the award-winning composer, pianist, producer, and multidisciplinary artist, to delve into her creative process, healing journey, and artistic vision. Known for her emotionally resonant and meditative music, Karen has captivated audiences worldwide, blending art and introspection to create transformative experiences. From her vintage Steinway grand piano to her acclaimed visual art, including photography exhibited at the Louvre Museum, Karen Salicath’s work transcends boundaries. Join us as we explore the inspiration behind her serene compositions and her multifaceted artistry.
Karen has also just released a new single, “A Moment of Peace,” continuing her tradition of creating music that soothes and uplifts.
Many argue that art forms should be about meaning, not the emotional aspect. However, your music is about healing and your journey. Can we say that you stand on the emotional point in this argument?
My music is both emotional and spiritual, and there is also a meaning inside the music.
Do you consider being a semi-finalist in the 2024 American Songwriter’s Song Contest as recognition for your music and your talent?
I am very grateful and honored for this, and it helps to be recognized and heard. Only 1% of all songs entered become semi-finalists.
Would you like to see more music, such as yours, devoted to recognizing the importance of spirituality?
Yes, sure. I believe there is a big demand for this kind of music, especially in this chaotic world. People need a safe place to rest, reconnect, and tune in to tranquility, and music is a language for souls.
Do you think your music can help people? Is it why you make your music?
My music helped me heal from a head injury, so I know it can heal. I hear from many fans of my music that they feel healed, emotional, and some also feel healed, headache, stress, grief, and feel more connected spiritually when they hear my music. This is my contribution to this world. I made a promise when I went back to life after my near-death experience, and when I suddenly was able to play piano and compose, which I never had done before, to share this music with the world. It healed me, and it can heal others, too.
How do you choose the names of your compositions? Since they are named after angels, what’s the process like?
I get guided to my music from above, often in dreams. Angels have different energies and meanings. These energies are in the music. I tune in when I make the music, feel the energy, and know which Angel it belongs under.
Since you are also a photographer, is there any new exhibition coming?
My husband, Jamali, and I have our gallery, the Jamali NYC Gallery. And Jamali Winter Park Gallery and Jamali Gallery in Fort Lauderdale, where my art is exhibited all the time.
Does your music come from your surroundings, or is it driven by your inner voice?
My music comes in Dreams. I hear the music, wake up very early and record it, only one time, no practice.
Do you see yourself ever composing music in accompaniment with vocals or not?
Yes, I have plans of doing this. I have heard this music, with other instruments and voice, so wait, it will come…
What’s the biggest revelation you had through music?
The biggest is that the music came to me suddenly, it was like having a speaker in my head, it was scary, but since I am an artist, I knew I had to get it out, and began to play the piano and discovered I was able to play the piano, it was like a miracle for me. I can still not explain it, but science may be able to, and then I began to heal after my head injury. It took me 3 years; at first, I could not have light or sound, and had difficulty speaking. I was only up 10 minutes a day. When the music came, I really began to heal. At that time, I thought I would never be able to have a normal life again. But the music healed me, and still does. I am in the music. I believe that the entire cosmos, from the end of infinity to the smallest particle, is connected in music.