The Anatomy of Melancholy is the debut project of Costa-Rican/British violinist Emily Stewart. It is based on the 17th century book of the same name by English writer Robert Burton, a classic literary work that explores melancholy from a psychological, historical, and philosophical point of view. At its core lies the idea that melancholy is central to the human experience and our way of perceiving the world. Taking cues from Burton’s work, Stewart’s programme is built as a collection of miniatures that are conceptually linked by melancholy as a theme. The music, arranged for violin, cello and double bass, is inspired by her own rich multicultural background and echoes a wide range of influences from classical music and the great American Songbook to Celtic folk music and free improvisation. Her compositions, arrangements and songs are interweaved with spoken word passages, both quotes from Burton’s book as well as her own writing. More than just a musical performance, The Anatomy of Melancholy lures the listener into a world of longing and nostalgia – a journey for the senses and the soul.