The worlds of classical music and dark alternative magically collide when listening to the melodies of Wikka. The artist behind the persona is Alexia DelGiudice Bigari who’s an adept vocalist and violist from New York City. She studied at The Juilliard School, then went on to receive her Master of Music degree at Northwestern University. Her classically trained background and appreciation for the macabre influence her art, and the result is enticing.
Wikka’s recent release, Specters, features seven tracks that take the listener on a journey through dark fairy tales of her imagining. In addition to classical sounds, she’s influenced by darkwave and industrial music and blends these genres in the songs. Her lyrics speak of morbid facets of the mind, shadow realms and the nightmares we hold inside. The singer’s hypnotic voice creates a mystical mood, not to mention the inclusion of the viola amplifies the haunting ambience. While I enjoyed the entire album, “Phantasm,” “Succubus” and “Necromancer” are my particular favorites.
After exploring her discography, which includes two previous albums and a selection of singles, I can’t help but be impressed with the artist’s musical aptitude. She produces the type of music I love to immerse in when I’m craving something ghoulish, which, let’s be honest, is all the time.
I had the opportunity to ask Wikka a few questions about her music and artistic experiences. For your reading pleasure, I present to you the singer and violist in her own words.
Q: You’re such a gifted musician, and you’re classically trained. What motivated you to become a singer and violist?
A: I started playing the viola at age 9. I was raised in a musical family; my mother is an opera singer. I fell in love with the sound of the viola right when I heard it for the first time, and I knew I had to play it for the rest of my life. Vocally, I’ve sung in choirs all my life, as well as sung musical theater. After graduating from Juilliard and Northwestern, I decided that I wanted to dip my toes into the world of alternative music. I’m so glad I combined both forms of music to create this dark/gothic world because now I truly feel fulfilled musically and creatively.
Q: It’s fantastic the way your style bridges classical music with dark alternative sounds. Why do you enjoy experimenting with darkwave and industrial genres?
A: I have been a fan of darkwave and industrial music since the age of 12. My favorite musicians are Siouxsie and the Banshees, Depeche Mode and Bauhaus. I was inspired to delve into this genre but wanted to make it unique with viola.
Q: What’s the story behind your music persona, Wikka? How did you come up with the name?
A: I am Wiccan and wanted to incorporate my spirituality with my music. Wikka is, in a way, my alter ego. She’s not afraid to be 100% herself and confident. Every album/film I make, Wikka is a different character, but they are all relatable and give strength to all women, young or old.
Q: Are there musicians, in the classical and/or alternative genres, who inspire you?
A: My biggest classical inspiration is cellist Jacqueline Du Pre. The level of emotion she plays with is awe inspiring! I wish I could have been able to see her perform. As for alternative genres, I love Siouxsie and the Banshees, Bjork, Nine Inch Nails, My Chemical Romance, and Voltaire. They have all definitely inspired me. Bjork’s creative mind is pure genius, and I have always loved listening to her unique and powerful voice.
Q: You’ve also ventured into film. What made you want to delve into the world of visual arts?
A: I strongly believe that music, art and film go hand in hand. When you put all three together, you can create something truly special. Ever since I was a child, I’ve loved fantasy and horror films, and used to invite friends over to make scary movies on my little pink camera. Once I started Wikka, I realized that if I was to make this a character, I needed to really tell her story in full. The only way to do that was to create musical films and visual art! It has truly been such an uplifting and wonderful experience to collaborate with other incredible artists.
Q: What do you hope audiences take away from your music and art?
A: I really hope that audiences can see themselves in the character of Wikka. My main goal is to make others feel like they are in a safe space while listening to my music, and that they can truly express themselves freely. Wikka is all about freedom of expression and creativity, as well as empathy.
Q: Can you drop any teasers about what you have planned next for your music and/or other creative endeavors?
A: I just released my new album “Specters,” and the film has already been filmed! We are in the editing process at the moment, but everyone can expect an August release. After the film has been released, I do have some ideas up my sleeve for future projects. I don’t want to give too much away, but I will be continuing with the spooky ghost tale I have been telling.
Where to Stalk Wikka
Note: Top image by Jacob Maximillian Baron.
Vamp Jenn's Corner 
It’s a given I’ll like this musician/music! Thanks for the intro to some new music!
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My pleasure!
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What an incredibly talented artist.
Wikka, casts a spellbinding musical odyssey of poetic journey’s to be explored!
Looking forward to more of her work!
Definitely blessed within the Art’s!
Great interview Jenn!
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Thank you so much Edward!
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Reading of Wikka’s evolution is thrilling. To go from Julliard and opera to gothic and alternative explorations is quite a journey.
Not at all contradictory, though, as each “side” nourishes the other and provides for richer expression. Something you’ve demonstrated yourself in your own experiences, Jenn.
It’s interesting Wikka allows her “alternative” persona greater expressiveness than, perhaps, her origins would suggest. But does it? Obviously, Wikka’s been on this expedition her whole life.
That’s what makes Wikka accessible, yet intriguing. Her start and her training suggests the familiar, yet she clearly stokes the thrill of discovery. Parsing the dark realms beyond from the lengthening shadows.
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I agree! She’s doing innovative things with her music and it’s wonderful. I’m happy you find her just as fascinating.
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Another musician to check out 🙂
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I think you’ll really enjoy her!
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