Fabian Schumann plays the zither, but in a completely different way. He presents the instrument outside the context of Alpine tradition, instead placing it within the realm of jazz. He aims to break new ground and has even had innovative electric zithers custom-built for this purpose, which he showcases on his new album “STROM”—both as a soloist and in a trio with bass and violin. With this project, he aims to free the zither from its outdated image and reposition it as a versatile, expressive instrument. The focus is not on virtuosity, but on storytelling—of new beginnings and resistance, of stillness and movement. The compositions often arise from improvisation, from a feeling, an image, or a phrase, and grow into musical stories that invite listeners to listen closely, empathize, and reflect. In doing so, he blends the sounds of the zither with the lively rhythms of jazz, the authentic melodies of folk music, and modern electronic elements. A completely new sonic world that unites tradition and innovation.