Phia

»Phia seems to possess the past of [an] Australian with the inspiration and musical edge of a true Berliner« (Berlin Sessions). Otherwise known as Sophia Exiner, Phia is an Australian-born, Berlin-based artist who creates arresting and joyous pop music. With the unusual but artful use of the African kalimba channeled through her loop-pedal, she adds beatboxing, handclaps and vocal percussion to create a captivating experience. A classically trained pianist, it was a twist of fate that led to Phia first picking up her now trademark kalimba and she hasn’t looked back. The simplicity and beauty of this wooden instrument coupled with the infinite possibilities of the loop pedal sparked a love that completely liberated her, both musically and physically. She relocated to Berlin in 2011 and immersed herself in the DIY/art/electronic music scenes.

For 2013, Phia is receiving a grant in the amount of 7,000 euros.

Phia (Photo: Marcelle Bradbeer)
Phia (Photo: Marcelle Bradbeer)