Classical and Jazz: Latest News > February 3
Published: 3 February, 2011
by SEBASTIAN TAYLOR
A STRONG line-up of jazz piano trios has been assembled for Ronnie Scott’s six-day pianothon next week. First up on Monday (February 7), will be American classically trained pianist Cyrus Chestnut noted for his ability to play New Orleans rhythmic numbers and gospel tunes without sounding trite or derivative.
Two days later, our very own Julian Joseph will show how jazz pianists can push the boundaries, building on the legacy of the great jazz composers, combining his own unique voice with those of his predecessors.
Last, starting on Thursday, (February 10), award-winning Kenny Barron will play the final three evenings, demonstrating how he’s been exploring new directions.
“I feel that sometimes I’ve been pigeon-holed into being a bebop piano player,” he says.
“So I’ve deliberately set out to use chord progressions different from the standard bebop 2-5-1 as well as move away from playing tunes in 4/4 time. The tunes are still bebop-orientated. But I’m experimenting with different chord changes and playing off a tonal centre.”
If paying homage to jazz piano giants is not your thing, perhaps some delightful music played next Wednesday by the Oh La La quartet at St Martin-in-the-Fields might appeal.
The quartet’s line-up comprises an accordion, violin, guitar and double bass.
Although the quartet plays classic jazz, its specialises in a variety of French songs, Chansons Realistes made famous by Edith Piaf, Chansons Francaise originally sung by the likes of Jeanne Morreau and Henry Salvador and classic “Musette” Parisian folk songs.