Cleaning Women is a unique band that operates with self-made instruments and consists of three cleaning robots (CW01, CW03, CW04). The band has been active with the same lineup for 25 years, during which time it has amazed audiences around the globe with over 600 gigs in at least 25 countries.

The band has produced four albums, 3D shadow visual performances, and other special projects, film music, and numerous acclaimed silent film accompaniments that they have performed live in places such as Bologna's old town square, Paradiso in Amsterdam, and the Telluride Film Festival in Colorado, USA. The latest venture into film music was the band's original score for the Italian Alice Rohrwacher's 38-minute short film "The Pupils," which was nominated for an Oscar in the short film category in 2023. Currently, the band is preparing their fifth album.

In addition to their original music, Cleaning Women is also known for their alternative instrument choices. The band's sound is based on self-built instruments and household items that have been modified for musical purposes. The materials often come from dumpsters or are saved from ending up there. Over the years, the band's instrument family has expanded, now including, in addition to the original mic’d drying rack, numerous different string and rhythm instruments. Although the starting point is avant-garde and experimental, the result is a combination of skillful instrument handling, unique soundscapes, and melodically and rhythmically rich music that can be described as a mix of cinematic sci-fi western and sparkling dumpster disco.

Along with the band's unified dark appearance and other visual elements, the entirety is most effectively conveyed during a live performance.

Seated audience.

Duration 1 h 30 min

Kaikukortti event

Cleaning Women

The event “Cleaning Women” has ended