Hummingbird

In his latest release, Mathieu Karsenti presents a new work for three solo violins inspired by the hummingbird — an emblematic species of California that became a lasting image during his three years living and working in Los Angeles. Restless, fragile, and constantly in motion, the hummingbird emerged as a reflection of contemporary life: endlessly active, perpetually connected, rarely still.

But what happens when the hummingbird stops?

When The Hummingbird Stops invites a moment of suspension — a pause from the noise and acceleration of daily life to simply observe, reflect, and breathe. Through his distinctive compositional voice, Mathieu blends impressionistic textures, minimalist repetition, and subtle echoes of Baroque writing into a contemplative work accompanied by two contrasting variations. The result is a delicate meditation on stillness, perception, and the passing of time.

Mathieu also called on ICM photographer Robbie J Roy for his distinctive in motion photography to illustrate the cover of this project. – 101075 Records

Musicians: Helena Maria Falk

Photography: Robbie J Roy

‘There’s a steady confidence in how this piece moves forward. The melody doesn’t rush, but it never stalls either. I like how the arrangement gives each idea room to breathe. The cadence feels natural, closing phrases without forcing them. The pacing allows the listener to absorb details gradually. Even the quieter moments carry weight because of how they’re placed. Transitions feel like extensions rather than interruptions. The whole track feels connected from start to finish. That cohesion makes it easy to return to.’ – Showland Productions

‘Karsenti masterfully blends a constant, unstoppable flow with moments of rarefied silence. Through delicate violin phrases and perfectly placed pauses, he builds a landscape where every interval conceals a hidden emotional world. A piece of profound, static beauty that invites you to look beyond the surface.’ – The Hand Eeditions