The Court at Versailles

The Court at Versailles is a jazz piano trio reimagining electronic dance music through an  acoustic lens. The brainchild of pianist Joel Pierson and producer Eric Palmquist, the group  transforms high-octane tracks from the electronic world into intricate, dynamic jazz  performances—unveiling the surprising sophistication behind the beats. 

Their debut album, Acoustic Electronica, spans three decades of genre-defining electronic music.  From the hyperkinetic breakbeats of Squarepusher’s “Come On My Selector” to the immersive  techno of Underworld (“Rez,” “Cowgirl,” “Two Months Off”), and the anthemic house of  Deadmau5’s “Strobe,” the album pays homage to the depth and diversity of EDM. It also  features innovative interpretations of music by Skrillex, Tycho, Fred again.., and Jon Hopkins. 

Joel Pierson is a pianist and composer based in Mexico, known for fusing classical composition  with irreverent genre-bending. As the Artistic Director and composer for The Queen’s  Cartoonists, he has brought animated films to life on stages ranging from the Blue Note in New  York to Konzerthaus Berlin, SFJAZZ, and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. His work has earned  praise for its wit, precision, and inventiveness. 

Eric Palmquist, a producer and multi-instrumentalist based in Los Angeles, brings an ear for  sonic detail honed through work with platinum-selling and Grammy-winning artists including  Billie Eilish, Tate McRae, Bad Suns, and members of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. His background  in both indie and mainstream pop production helps shape CAV’s hybrid aesthetic. 

Sam Minae, on upright and electric bass, is a sought-after New York-based musician who has  toured internationally with acclaimed pianist Tigran Hamasyan for over a decade. Known for his  rhythmic agility and melodic sensitivity, Minae bridges jazz tradition with forward-thinking  improvisation. 

John Hadfield, a drummer and percussionist based in Paris, is celebrated for his genre-spanning  versatility. A longtime member of Yo-Yo Ma’s Silk Road Ensemble and a contributor to the  Saturday Night Live Band, Hadfield has also performed with artists ranging from Kinan Azmeh  to Nguyen Le, bringing a global perspective and dynamic rhythmic palette to the ensemble. 

Together, The Court at Versailles delivers virtuosic music that blur the line between the club and  the concert hall—channeling the energy of a festival set with the nuance and spontaneity of modern jazz.

Gear

Piano, Upright Bass, Drums & electronic manipulation.

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