If there’s one thing that keeps us inspired at Avalglass (besides glass art itself), it’s music. Just like a great stained glass piece can transform a space, a good album can totally transform our mood—and, let’s be honest, some days we need that extra spark to get those creative juices flowing. So, we thought we’d share a little of what’s playing in our studio to keep the vibe going strong.
Music isn’t just background noise for us; it’s part of our creative process. The right song has this way of opening up our minds, helping us focus on every cut and color choice. Each of us has a go-to album or composition to help spark inspiration, so here’s a little peek at what the Avalglass team is listening to when we’re hard at work.
Anna: Kind of Blue by Miles Davis
Kind of Blue by Miles Davis, 1959, Columbia Records
Anna is the creative heart of Avalglass, and she swears by the smooth, soulful sounds of Kind of Blue. For her, nothing beats the free flow of jazz when she’s coming up with new designs. “It’s calming but not sleepy,” she says. “Just what I need to let ideas form without rushing them.”
Jazz lovers, add this one to your playlist!
Oleg: Selected Ambient Works 85-92 by Aphex Twin
Selected Ambient Works 85-92 by Aphex Twin, 1992, R&S Records
Oleg’s taste might surprise you—he’s all about Selected Ambient Works by Aphex Twin. This album, with its deep electronic beats and atmospheric soundscapes, is his ideal background music when he’s managing logistics and production. “It’s got this steady rhythm that keeps me focused,” he says, “but it’s abstract enough that it lets my mind wander just the right amount.”
For Oleg, Aphex Twin’s ambient tracks provide a perfect blend of structure and creativity, setting the tone for a productive day at the Avalglass workshop.
Michael: Symphony No. 9 by Beethoven
Symphony No. 9 by Beethoven, ~1824, Public Domain
When it comes to music that stirs creativity and focus, Michael’s pick is nothing short of legendary. Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 is his ultimate go-to, with its powerful composition that he says has "incredibly shaped my sense of beauty." Michael finds that Beethoven’s soaring crescendos and intricate melodies inspire him to work with purpose and precision.
As for honorable mentions, Michael’s love for classical runs deep. Mozart’s Requiem, Bach’s Mass in B minor, Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, and Handel’s Music for the Royal Fireworks all hold a special place in his playlist. Each piece, he says, adds its own spark to the creative process, reminding him of the timeless beauty and artistry he strives to bring into Avalglass.
Alex: The Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd
The Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd, 1973, Harvest Records
Alex is our big-ideas guy, and when he needs to think about the next step for Avalglass, he turns to The Dark Side of the Moon. This classic album, with its deep lyrics and layered soundscapes, gives him the headspace he needs. “It’s not just an album; it’s a whole experience,” Alex says.
Lena: Blue by Joni Mitchell
Blue by Joni Mitchell, 1971, Reprise Records
Lena, one of our longtime artisans, knows the power of a good melody. Her choice? Blue by Joni Mitchell. “It’s raw, it’s honest, and it’s beautiful,” she says. For her, Joni’s voice and lyrics tap into that emotional side of creativity, reminding her why she loves what she does.
How to use those picks?
If you ever find yourself stuck on a project, sometimes all it takes is a little break—and the right music. Studies show that letting your mind wander while listening to music can free up mental space, helping those creative ideas bubble to the surface. So next time you’re looking for inspiration, throw on one of our team’s album picks and see where your imagination takes you.
With love,
The Avalglass Team ❤️
