About Annick Odom
As a contemporary musician, I am excited to blend boundaries between performer and audience, genre, and art. In my solo project, West Virginia, My Home, I explore narrative by collaborating with American composers to bring new perspectives to the traditional folk songs I learned from West Virginians. This project weaves together personal and cultural histories, preserving traditions while opening space for innovation. My background in classical music and my experience with composer-musician-led groups, such as the ambient glitch chamber ensemble Squee! Collective, inspire me to build community through music, whether performing solo, with a band, or in workshops.
I compose, improvise, and perform music that sits at the intersection of tradition and experimentation, drawing deeply from Appalachian ballads and folk stories of my West Virginian roots. These traditional sounds uniquely connect generations, fostering spontaneous collaboration that brings diverse backgrounds together. Old Time music, a genre close to my heart, enables intergenerational exchanges, breaking down boundaries and creating shared spaces where everyone feels welcome to participate.
In my work, I love uncovering and reimagining traditional stories and forgotten histories, creating spaces where music feels more like an inclusive circle than a staged performance. My compositions honor the haunting beauty of West Virginian songs while making room for contemporary voices and perspectives. Through my music, I aim to invite others to listen, connect, and find their own place within a broader cultural tapestry.
Alongside my music, I create visual moving panoramas—contemporary versions of the traditional “crankies”—which accompany my songs and enrich the storytelling experience.
Biography
I’m a Belgian-American performer-composer, songwriter, bassist, clarinetist, storyteller, and folk singer, born and raised in Morgantown, WV. My music blends old ballads and stories from traditional West Virginian folk music with my own compositions and newly commissioned works. In addition to performing solo, I play with the chamber groups Linen of Words and Sweet Joe Pye, mixing folk songs, storytelling, electronics, and original works to create a unique sound. Classical Post has described my music as “hauntingly beautiful,” and Dutch broadcaster VPRO remarked, “Every song is an adventure because of her experiences and worldview.” I frequently write for voice with chamber ensembles, drawing inspiration from my deep connection to Appalachian music and stories. I’ve had the chance to perform across the USA and internationally at venues like the Rotterdam Bluegrass Festival, Banff Centre for the Arts, Oh My Ears! Music Festival, Third Place Music Festival, and New Music on the Point. I have a background in both classical and folk traditions. I studied clarinet and double bass at the University of Michigan and the Royal Conservatoire of The Hague. Recently, I completed a fiddle apprenticeship with Gerry Milnes, and I’m currently apprenticing in square dance calling with Taylor Runner, continuing to deepen my connection to traditional Appalachian music.
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Other Creative Skills
Other
Music: Ethnic
