The boundaries between musical styles are becoming increasingly fluid – and it’s precisely within this dynamic space that Daniel Mandolini, aka Mando, thrives. The Berlin-based musician fuses classical guitar with beatboxing and LoopStation performance to create a sound all his own: “I build bridges between classical music and urban hip-hop. The result is a unique sound – and you’ll hear it live at the HipHop Ball.”
Mando is among the international elite of the beatboxing scene: multiple German Champion, European Champion, Vice World Champion in tag team with the 4xSample Beatbox Crew, and winner of the Grand Beatbox Battle in the LoopStation category. His journey began early – classical guitar at age six, followed by studies at the Hanns Eisler School of Music in Berlin. Through friends, he discovered beatboxing – and found his true artistic home.
“From that point on, there was no holding back.”
Between Classical Craft and Urban Innovation
Mando’s musical work is driven by a spirit of experimentation and a hunger for creative freedom: “For me, beatboxing is a way of life – turning almost nothing into an entire universe.” Inspiration strikes from all directions: beatboxing legends like Rahzel and Doug E. Fresh, natural sounds, everyday noises, fragments of speech. His creative process follows no strict rules. Sometimes a single note or rhythm sparks a piece; other times it’s born from a specific assignment. But one thing remains central: the live moment.
“Beatboxing is made to be live. In the studio, it often loses its magic.”
HipHop Ball: A Stage for Musical Fusion
Mando’s blend of classical guitar, beatbox, and looping is a perfect match for the spirit of the HipHop Ball, where urban sound art meets classical elegance: “What I do – mixing classical guitar and beatbox – is like an auditory counterpart to the HipHop Ball itself. That’s why I’m especially excited to be part of this event.”
He already performed at the Vienna HipHop Ball, with an excerpt from Flying Hänsel und Gretel by the Flying Steps. His takeaway from the experience?
“Nothing is impossible – and together we are strong.”
Berlin, Culture, and the Joy of Experimentation
Berlin, Mando says, provides the ideal creative ground:
“Over the years, I’ve met so many amazing artists, acrobats, musicians, and producers at jam sessions, street performances, and my own shows. So many collaborations came out of those moments.”
Looking ahead, he hopes to see more courage – in music and in life:
“I hope people allow themselves to make mistakes again – that’s the only way new things can emerge.”
And as for the HipHop Ball? Mando puts it simply:
“It’s a one-of-a-kind event where a classical ceremony merges with hip-hop culture. You don’t want to miss it.”
