The Tel Aviv Jazz Festival, in its 22nd year, is one of the most important jazz events in Israel.
The Festival has garnered a prestigious reputation in Israel and abroad, as a magnet for stellar jazz performers and a home for special projects. However, the Festival's main attraction is the exciting experience it provides for jazz aficionados. This year, the Festival will host internationally known jazz musicians, who will play side-by-side with Israeli musicians, in original Festival productions and premiere performances.
Among the artists who will take part in this year's festival are:
Dee Alexander, “Queen of Chicago"—the warm-voiced singer, who will perform pieces from her latest album, as well as a tribute to Nina Simone and Diana Washington.
Tigran Hamasyan—the young piano star from Armenia, in jazz that combines tradition, innovation and virtuosity.
The Nicole Mitchell Trio—winner of the “Flutist of the Year 2010" award for new, daring and original jazz. Mitchell will perform with Hamid Drake and Harrison Bankhead.
The rising star in New York jazz, alto saxophonist Jaleel Shaw, will connect with George Colligan to present original pieces, old standards, and Wayne Shorter's compositions.
The ensemble gathered by Steven Bernstein, trumpeter and composer, will perform lively, funky Latino arrangements for traditional Jewish songs.
The main Israeli performance this year will be an original production entitled “Tel Aviv-Paris-New York." In this performance, the Tel Aviv Jazz orchestra will host Efrat Gosh, singer of the year, 2010. Together they will embark on a world-embracing musical journey that will include a selection of American standards by Gershwin, familiar French chansons, as well as Efrat's biggest hits, in special arrangements for this evening, by Amikam Kimmelman, who will conduct the orchestra.
The above performances will be joined by a wide variety of Israeli jazz combos, old and new alike, in diverse styles and tastes. As fitting for a jazz festival that has championed new and original creative works, there will be several original productions that will make their debut: Shauli Einav will host Tigran Hamasyan, Albert Beger will perform a duet with the drummer Hamid Drake, The Arik Strauss Trio, Ofer Peled, Ayelet Rose Gottleib and more.
Like every year, it will be possible to enjoy free live performances of jazz combos, in the lobby of the Cinematheque.
Musical Direction: Nitzan Kramer, Barak Weiss
Tickets: Tel Aviv Cinematheque, Sprinzak St. 2, Tel Aviv. Tel: 03-6060800. Or by Internet: www.cinema.co.il
Discounts available for Tel-Aviv Jaffa residents, holders of Maximum Tel Aviv card and Cinematheque subscribers, on presentation of the appropriate card, by advance reservation only.
15/2 Tuesday, 20:00, Hall 1
The George Colligan Trio—Come Together (US) Israel Premiere
American pianist, composer and jazz educator George Colligan is one of the most original and productive pianists in the last fifteen years. Though he is particularly well-known as a sideman in dozens of recordings, Colligan has recorded twenty-two albums under his own name. His sensitivity and ability to give his best on both sides of the jazz world —support for soloists and the assertivity of leading his own combo—have made him the chosen pianist by many of the jazz greats worldwide.
Colligan has collaborated on the stage and in the recording studio, with jazz stars such as Cassandra Wilson, Benny Golson, Sheila Jordan, Lee Konitz, Christian McBride and many more. Colligan is also a regular member of jazz ensembles that preserve the music of Charlie Mingus—the Mingus Big Band and the Mingus Dynasty.
In Colligan's debut in Israel, on the stage at the Tel Aviv Jazz Festival, he will lead a trio with two of his oldest friends, also musicians from the elite of the New York jazz scene—bass player Boris Kozlov and the drummer Donald Edwards. The trio is characterized by dynamic, “funky" playing that brims with joie de vivre. Recently, the trio has recorded its album “Come Together" that includes original pieces and special arrangements of popular standards. Their Festival performance will be based on this album.
“Colligan is an equally deserving torch-carrier of the piano-trio tradition...." (John Kelman, All About Jazz).
George Colligan: piano; Boris Kozlov: contrabass; Donald Edwards: drums
15/2 Tuesday, 20:00, Hall 2
Eden Bareket Quintet
Eden Bareket, baritone saxophonist and composer is a young, fresh voice appearing on the local jazz scene for the past few years. He rapidly became the first choice for any jazz combo looking for a baritone saxophonist. The quintet he leads has been playing together for about two years, and has worked intensively on original compositions and well-known jazz compositions, with his own arrangements written for three horns and a rhythm section.
The unique sound of the quintet is influenced by the lack of a harmonious instrument. This gives them a platform for open improvisation, alongside tight arrangements. The music of the Eden quintet combines elements from jazz, classical music, and popular music into one unique, organic and homogeneous creation.
Eden Bareket: baritone saxophone; Ron Silberstein: trombone; Omri Abramov: saxophones; Or Bareket: contrabass; Meir-Hai Mark Moshayev: drums
15/2 Tuesday, 22:30, Hall 1 Steven Bernstein—Diaspora Soul (USA, Israel) National Premiere and Special Festival Production
Steven Bernstein, the New York trumpeter, band leader and arranger, is a well-known veteran of the New York jazz scene, from combos such as Sexmob and Lounge Lizards. In the past decade he's been mainly famous for a series of “Diaspora" albums, produced for John Zorn's prestigious “Tzadik" label. In this series, Bernstein presents his unique combination of Jewish musical tradition, jazz, Afro-Cuban music, Soul, and Rhythm and Blues.
For this premiere performance in Israel, Bernstein has gathered three American and three Israeli musicians for a septet. Together they will present rhythmic, dance-generating, funky and colorful arrangements for traditional Jewish numbers, such as “Ma Nishtanah" “Let My People Go" “Mazinka" (better known in its Hebrew version as a children's birthday song), “Aveenu Malkenu," a familiar Chasidic wedding song and more.
Steven Bernstein: trumpet; Paul Shapiro: tenor saxophone; Yakir Sasson: baritone saxophone; Erik Deutsch: keyboards; Assaf Hakimi: bass; Roberto Rodriguez: drums; Gilad Dobrecky: percussion
15/2 Tuesday, 22:30, Hall 2 Albert Beger and Hamid Drake—Fire from Within World Premiere, Special Festival Production (Israel, US)
About six years after the first musical encounter between Albert Beger, the Israeli Free Jazz veteran player and the super drummer Hamid Drake, the two will join together as a duo, for the first time on a festival stage. The event promises to be an outstanding musical event.
The two musicians, phenomenally skilled in interpreting “the art of the moment" music, are fired by intense inner energies. Together, they will perform original works, open to improvisation and expressive emotion.
Albert Beger: saxophones; Hamid Drake: drums and percussion
16/2 Wednesday , 20:00, Hall 1
Jaleel Shaw meets the George Colligan Trio (USA) Israel Premiere, Special Festival Production
One of the rising stars in jazz, Jaleel Shaw, alto saxophonist, joins the George Colligan's Trio (see details in the Come Together performance listing) in a special Festival production.
Shaw, a 32-year-old native born Philadelphian, blended smoothly into the New York jazz scene on his arrival there in 2000. He already has two albums to his name that received rave reviews. His playing, with its own personal, easily identified sound, is characterized by rich imagination and fierce emotion, coupled with spectacular technique. This makes Shaw one of the most esteemed saxophonists in New York.
Aside from the ensemble he leads, Jaleel is a regular member of the combo led by the legendary drummer Roy Haynes (with whom he will also perform in Israel), as well as the Mingus Big Band, where he plays with all the members of the George Colligan trio. Jaleel has also played with stars such as Roy Hargrove, Christian McBride, Dave Holland and Jason Moran.
Together with Colligan, Kozlov and Edwards, Shaw will perform original pieces composed by the group's members, well loved standards and several special arrangements for compositions of one his favorite composers and players—Wayne Shorter.
Jaleel Shaw: alto saxophone; George Colligan: piano; Boris Kozlov: contrabass; Donald Edwards: drums
16/2 Wednesday , 20:00, Hall 2
The Shauli Einav Quartet/Quintet with Tigran Hamasyan—Opus One(Israel/Armenia/US) Special Festival Production and World Premiere
The Israeli saxophonist and composer Shauli Einav has gained a well-deserved reputation for his music on the New York jazz scene in the past few years. At an early age, he won recognition and acclaim—winning the ASCAP Composer's Award, a scholarship from the America-Israel Culture Foundation and a Billy Joel scholarship.
His second album, Opus One, on which the performance is based, has just come out under the quality international Parisian label Plus Loin Music.
The saxophonist Walt Weiskopf says that Einav has “a vivid imagination in playing and the ability to improvise in an authentic, sophisticated manner, at the highest level of today's jazz."
Einav and the international pianist Tigran Hamasyan, who have played together previously in New York, will appear together for the first time in an international festival. The collaborative efforts of these two rising jazz stars promises a new, daring and brilliant twist to Einav's music.
Shauli Einav: saxophones; Tigran Hamasyan: piano; Or Bareket: contrabass; Amir Bresler: drums; Yonathan Voltzok: trombone (guest appearance)
16/2 Wednesday , 22:30, Hall 1
Nicole Mitchell—Indigo Trio (USA) Israel Premiere
Nicole Mitchell, flutist, composer, band leader and jazz educator, has gained widespread recognition and status in recent years as one of the outstanding musicians, active in Chicago's jazz scene. In 2010 she was awarded the title “flutist of the year" from the USA Jazz Journalists Association. She was also named by Downbeat a “Rising Star" in the category of jazz flutists, between the years 2005-2010.
Mitchell's playing and composing demonstrates a vivid imagination, intense emotion and ongoing communication with the audience, alongside marvelous and innovative technique on the flute. The Indigo Trio that she brings to Israel, for their premiere performance in Tel Aviv Jazz festival, is based on the freedom and creativity of all three members; all of whom are actively connected with the musical roots of the AACM, which represents Chicago Style free jazz.
“a compelling improviser of wit, determination, positivity, and tremendous talent... on her way to becoming one of the greatest living flutists in jazz" (Peter Margasak, Chicago Reader).
Nicole Mitchell: flute; Harrison Bankhead: contrabass; Hamid Drake: drums and percussion
16/2 Wednesday, 23:30, Hall 2
Arik Strauss Trio—Back from Paris Special Festival Production
The pianist and composer Arik Strauss has returned to Israel after several months in the artists' quarter in Paris. While there, he composed new material that he also recorded with Parisian musicians.
In a special Festival premiere, Strauss' trio will present his new materials, along with original arrangements of well-known standards.
The new trio includes young and experienced musicians who have been active in recent years in New York, along with music greats on the New York scene.
Arik Strauss: piano; Tal Ronen: contrabass; Gasper Bertoncelj: drums
17/2 Thursday, 20:30, Hall 1
Dee Alexander Quartet—Wild is the Wind (US) Israel Premiere
Dee Alexander (Illinois, US, 1955), also known as the “queen of Chicago," is one of the most outstanding jazz vocalists and composers on Chicago's music scene during the last decade. Her deep, warm voice and her control of many musical styles allow her many challenging musical collaborations.
As fitting for someone raised by Chicago's greatest musicians, and as a member of Chicago's famous AACM, Alexander, in her compositions and her singing, combines soul funk and blues with jazz. She uses her voice as a musical instrument, taking it far beyond mere singing. She gives the texts she presents a profoundly personal interpretation.
Alexander has collaborated on stage and in the recording studio with many leading jazz artists, including Ahmad Jumal, Joshua Redman, David Sanborn and Roy Ayers. She appears in many projects worldwide; at festivals throughout the US and Europe.
Alexander's last album, her third in number, entitled “Wild is the Wind," reaped rave reviews, establishing her status as one of the most outstanding singers in recent years. The album includes her own original pieces and those of members of her group ensemble, alongside performances of songs identified with Alexander's cultural mentors—Nina Simone and Dinah Washington.
“For Dee Alexander, taking flight is both a vocal technique and the realization of a dream." (David Whiteis, Jazz Times).
Dee Alexander: vocalist; Miguel de la Cerna: piano; Harrison Bankhead: bass; Erine Adams: drums & percussion
17/2 Thursday, 20:30, Hall 2
Ayelet Rose Gottleib—By the Roadside with special guest:Alon Oleartchik Special Festival Production
The singer and composer Ayelet Rose Gottleib has recently returned to Israel, after many years residence in New York.
Gottleib is no ordinary jazz singer. Her work combines elements from a variety of musical worlds: jazz, cantorial music, avant-garde, classical and the music of the East. She uses her voice not only as a voice, but as a musical instrument. During her career Gottleib has collaborated with John Zorn, Joe Lovano and Bobby McFerrin. She has released four albums that were highly acclaimed.
In her performance “By the Roadside," Gottleib presents original compositions for poetry by various poets such as Aggie Mishol, Nathan Zach, and Yehuda Amichai. The performance is a special production for Festival, in which she will be joined by Alon Oleartchik, for the first time, to present several of the songs.
Ayelet Rose Gottleib: voice; Yael Zamir: oboe; Udi Horev: classical guitar and oud; Ora Boazson Horev: contrabass; Dani Benedict: drums and percussion. Special Guest: Alon Oleartchik
17/2 Thursday, 23:00, Hall 1
Tigran Hamasyan Trio—Israel Premiere (Armenia-US)
Tigran Hamasyan, the young Armenian pianist and composer, brings his passion for playing music, intense expression and winning imagination to the stage.
Hamasyan, born in 1987, is perhaps the latest great discovery in jazz piano in the past few years. His work brilliantly and surprisingly blends many diverse influences, from Armenian to classical to rock music.
Hamasyan is considered a natural talent. As of the age of two, he began singing and accompanying himself on piano. At the age of 7, he started formal music studies and as early as the age of 13 began appearing in jazz festivals in Yerevan.
Between 2000-2008, the international jazz world became aware of Hamasyan's fascinating art and gradually he began receiving international recognition from many jazz greats such as John Mclaughlin, Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter. Hamasyan also collaborated with two of the most important figures on the European scene, the bassist Pierre Michelot and the drummer Daniel Humair.
In 2006, Hamasyan won first place in the Thelonious Monk piano competition. As of 2008 he has played in Paris and New York, where he established the trio that will attend the Tel Aviv Jazz Festival with him.
Tigran Hamasyan: piano; Sam Minaie: double bass; Mark Guiliana: drums
17/2 Thursday, 23:00, Hall 2
Ofer Peled—Ararat Special Festival Production
Ofer Peled is one of the leading woodwinds performer and composer in the field of ethnic jazz in Israel. In his new project “Ararat," Peled and his ensemble of musicians combine Arabic, Turkish, Gypsy, African, Yemenite and Indian music with modern jazz and original compositions.
Peled is sought after by artists from various fields, from singers Yehudith Ravitz and Shalom Hanoch to Avi Leibowitz and the Hagroovatron. He has traveled throughout the world and studied many diverse musical styles, concentrating in recent years on polishing his unique style that has been influenced by all he learned and played on his travels.
In this performance, the musicians of “Ararat" will play a wide variety of instruments, some of which are characteristic of jazz, and others which are traditional ethnic instruments. This combination creates an enjoyable international encounter between East and West, North and South.
Ofer Peled: saxophones, flute, Kaval (Bulgarian flute), Bansuri (Indian flute); Gershon Waiserfirer: oud, baritone; Ido Zeleznik: keyboard; Avi Agababa, Gilad Dobrecky: percussion; Assaf Hakimi: contrabass; Yigal Mizrahi: vocals
Friday, 20:30, Hall 1
The Dee Alexander Quartet—Sirens of Song: A Tribute to Nina Simone and Dinah Washington
The singer Dee Alexander and her back-up ensemble (see details in the Wild in the Wind performance) will present a special program based on her personal interpretations of the repertoire identified with two of the figures who inspired her the most as a woman and as a musician.
The program was specially ordered by The Jazz Institute of Chicago and The Chicago Jazz Festival for an audience of thousands...
Nina Simone and Dinah Washington had an enormous impact on the world of music. Their musical style, never limited to one particular genre, was influenced by blues, R&B, soul and, of course, jazz. The two divas had glorious careers lasting for many years. Dee Alexander and her musical arranger—Miguel de la Cerna—have succeeded at a venture at which many have failed. They have arranged new, fresh arrangements for the classics of the two divas, without losing the piercing nature of the originals.
Dee Alexander: vocalist; Miguel de la Cerna: piano; Harrison Bankhead: bass; Erine Adams: drums & percussion
Friday, 20:30, Hall 2
Themes and Variations: Ofer Shapiro's Ensemble hosts Mamelo Gaitanopoulus
Saxophonist and composer Ofer Shapiro, in his debut performance as ensemble leader at the Tel Aviv Jazz Festival, will present his compositions and rich arrangements for his superstar group, headed by a four-horn section. The ensemble will also host the veteran international musician Mamelo Gaitanopoulus.
Shapiro has been active in Israel in recent years, after a long stay in New York, where he studied composition and arrangement with teachers such as James McKinley and Mike Mussman.
Most of the materials the group will perform are based on Shapiro's recently released debut album “Two Views," with the participation of the superb baritone player Gary Smulyan.
Roei Hermon: trumpet; Merav Goldman: French horn; Yonathan Voltzok: trombone; Ofer Ganor: guitar; Assaf Hakimi: double bass; Shay Zelman: drums; Soloist: Ofer Shapiro: saxophones and flute; Special Guest: Mamelo Gaitanopoulus
18/2 Friday, 23:30, Hall 1
Tel Aviv-Paris-New York—The Tel Aviv Jazz Orchestra features Efrat Gosh
Arranger, Musical Director and Conductor: Amikam Kimmelman
Efrat Gosh, singer of the year 2010, is one of the most fascinating and original singers on the Israeli music scene. Her unique voice and personality allow her to cross the lines between various musical styles, from rock to Latino to jazz and soul.
The Tel Aviv Jazz Orchestra, the oldest and most prominent jazz orchestra in Israel is composed of 18 virtuoso jazz musicians. Over the years, the orchestra has hosted many well known singers such as Shalom Hanoch, Rami Kleinstein, Nurit Galron and Marina Maximilian Blumin, leading to distinctive and refreshing musical collaborations.
In the Jazz Festival, Efrat and the orchestra embark on a world-encompassing musical journey that will include a selection of American standards by George Gershwin and Nat King Cole, familiar French chansons, and, of course, Efrat's greatest hits, in special arrangements by Amikam Kimmelman for this festive event.
Musicians: Hod Moshonov : piano; Dima Grodsky: bass; Roi Oliel: drums ; Robert Anchipolovsky , Dima Pyanin, Eitan Gofman, Alen Bassin, Omri Abramov: saxophone; Doron Silashi, Yuval Peled, Aidlin Viacheslav: trumpet; Maayan Milo, Oren Frenkel, Yonatan Voltzok: trombone; Rami Shuler: vibraphone and percussion; Dekel Bor: electric guitar
18/2 Friday, 23:30, Hall 2
Danny Adler Trio—Back Home in Tel Aviv (USA-Israel) Special Festival Production
The guitarist Danny Adler, native of Tel Aviv and a resident of the US for the past 25 years, combines a thriving high-tech career with his love of jazz, in general, and guitar playing, in particular.
During the past two years, Adler has won considerable recognition on the New York jazz scene, and recorded 2 successful discs, together with other prominent jazz musicians such as Joey DeFrancesco, the organ player and Grant Stuart, the saxophonist.
Adler was first influenced by the pioneers of Israeli jazz (Kamisky, Gottfried, Magen and others) whose performances he attended in his youth. He also notes Avri Sharon, Gil Dor, Nahum Perperkovitz, Menachem Weisenberg and the saxophonist Steve Grossman, as teachers and mentors who taught him the basics of jazz artistry and the brass tacks of performing and recording.
In the festival performance, Adler will play original compositions and standards that he has included in his latest albums, in the classic combo of a guitar-bass-drums trio.
Danny Adler: guitar; Tal Ronen: contrabass; Amir Bresler: drums
Tuesday, Lobby (Free of Charge)
Smooth Sailing: Simona Arones and Alec Katz Quartet
The singer Simona Arones, together with the trio led by pianist and arranger Alec Katz, will combine original pieces by Simona Arones, influenced by Brazilian music, and bi-bop arrangements of standard jazz greats.
Simona Arones: vocals; Alex Katz: piano; Ofer Ganor: guitar; Avri Borochov: bass
Wednesday, Lobby (Free of Charge)
Naomi Kern Quartet—Critical Jazz
The Dutch-born singer Naomi Kern has recently immigrated to Israel and joined the local jazz scene. She will perform her own arrangements for well known American standards, accompanied by a combo that has been formed especially for the Festival.
Naomi Kern: vocals; Deborah Dery: piano; Max Oleartchik: bass; Noam Israeli: drums
Thursday, Lobby (Free of Charge)
Belly White—The Yaron Ozana Quintet
Four members of the “Apples," and the international drummer Yuval Gabay, have joined together for a special performance that explores the thin line between funk and electronic music, between jazz and soft psychodelia.
The result is presented in original pieces, alongside arrangements of familiar standards.
Yaron Ozana: trombone, special effects; Yakir Sasson: baritone saxophone, flute, clarinet; Alon Carmeli: contrabass; Erez Todres: turntables; Yuval Gabay: drums
Friday, Lobby (Free of Charge)
Psycho Yogi—Kobi Solomon Quartet
A new and promising combo, headed by saxophonist Kobi Solomon, mixes jazz with South American folk music and combines jazz standards with innovative original arrangements in a sizzling blend.
The diverse musical and geographic backgrounds of combo members creates a fascinating, festive patchwork of colors and sounds.
Kobi Salomom—wood winds; Yoav Yenon—guitar; Gilad Dobrecky —percussion; Simon Starr—contrabass
The Festival has garnered a prestigious reputation in Israel and abroad, as a magnet for stellar jazz performers and a home for special projects. However, the Festival's main attraction is the exciting experience it provides for jazz aficionados. This year, the Festival will host internationally known jazz musicians, who will play side-by-side with Israeli musicians, in original Festival productions and premiere performances.
Among the artists who will take part in this year's festival are:
Dee Alexander, “Queen of Chicago"—the warm-voiced singer, who will perform pieces from her latest album, as well as a tribute to Nina Simone and Diana Washington.
Tigran Hamasyan—the young piano star from Armenia, in jazz that combines tradition, innovation and virtuosity.
The Nicole Mitchell Trio—winner of the “Flutist of the Year 2010" award for new, daring and original jazz. Mitchell will perform with Hamid Drake and Harrison Bankhead.
The rising star in New York jazz, alto saxophonist Jaleel Shaw, will connect with George Colligan to present original pieces, old standards, and Wayne Shorter's compositions.
The ensemble gathered by Steven Bernstein, trumpeter and composer, will perform lively, funky Latino arrangements for traditional Jewish songs.
The main Israeli performance this year will be an original production entitled “Tel Aviv-Paris-New York." In this performance, the Tel Aviv Jazz orchestra will host Efrat Gosh, singer of the year, 2010. Together they will embark on a world-embracing musical journey that will include a selection of American standards by Gershwin, familiar French chansons, as well as Efrat's biggest hits, in special arrangements for this evening, by Amikam Kimmelman, who will conduct the orchestra.
The above performances will be joined by a wide variety of Israeli jazz combos, old and new alike, in diverse styles and tastes. As fitting for a jazz festival that has championed new and original creative works, there will be several original productions that will make their debut: Shauli Einav will host Tigran Hamasyan, Albert Beger will perform a duet with the drummer Hamid Drake, The Arik Strauss Trio, Ofer Peled, Ayelet Rose Gottleib and more.
Like every year, it will be possible to enjoy free live performances of jazz combos, in the lobby of the Cinematheque.
Musical Direction: Nitzan Kramer, Barak Weiss
Tickets: Tel Aviv Cinematheque, Sprinzak St. 2, Tel Aviv. Tel: 03-6060800. Or by Internet: www.cinema.co.il
Discounts available for Tel-Aviv Jaffa residents, holders of Maximum Tel Aviv card and Cinematheque subscribers, on presentation of the appropriate card, by advance reservation only.
15/2 Tuesday, 20:00, Hall 1
The George Colligan Trio—Come Together (US) Israel Premiere
American pianist, composer and jazz educator George Colligan is one of the most original and productive pianists in the last fifteen years. Though he is particularly well-known as a sideman in dozens of recordings, Colligan has recorded twenty-two albums under his own name. His sensitivity and ability to give his best on both sides of the jazz world —support for soloists and the assertivity of leading his own combo—have made him the chosen pianist by many of the jazz greats worldwide.
Colligan has collaborated on the stage and in the recording studio, with jazz stars such as Cassandra Wilson, Benny Golson, Sheila Jordan, Lee Konitz, Christian McBride and many more. Colligan is also a regular member of jazz ensembles that preserve the music of Charlie Mingus—the Mingus Big Band and the Mingus Dynasty.
In Colligan's debut in Israel, on the stage at the Tel Aviv Jazz Festival, he will lead a trio with two of his oldest friends, also musicians from the elite of the New York jazz scene—bass player Boris Kozlov and the drummer Donald Edwards. The trio is characterized by dynamic, “funky" playing that brims with joie de vivre. Recently, the trio has recorded its album “Come Together" that includes original pieces and special arrangements of popular standards. Their Festival performance will be based on this album.
“Colligan is an equally deserving torch-carrier of the piano-trio tradition...." (John Kelman, All About Jazz).
George Colligan: piano; Boris Kozlov: contrabass; Donald Edwards: drums
15/2 Tuesday, 20:00, Hall 2
Eden Bareket Quintet
Eden Bareket, baritone saxophonist and composer is a young, fresh voice appearing on the local jazz scene for the past few years. He rapidly became the first choice for any jazz combo looking for a baritone saxophonist. The quintet he leads has been playing together for about two years, and has worked intensively on original compositions and well-known jazz compositions, with his own arrangements written for three horns and a rhythm section.
The unique sound of the quintet is influenced by the lack of a harmonious instrument. This gives them a platform for open improvisation, alongside tight arrangements. The music of the Eden quintet combines elements from jazz, classical music, and popular music into one unique, organic and homogeneous creation.
Eden Bareket: baritone saxophone; Ron Silberstein: trombone; Omri Abramov: saxophones; Or Bareket: contrabass; Meir-Hai Mark Moshayev: drums
15/2 Tuesday, 22:30, Hall 1 Steven Bernstein—Diaspora Soul (USA, Israel) National Premiere and Special Festival Production
Steven Bernstein, the New York trumpeter, band leader and arranger, is a well-known veteran of the New York jazz scene, from combos such as Sexmob and Lounge Lizards. In the past decade he's been mainly famous for a series of “Diaspora" albums, produced for John Zorn's prestigious “Tzadik" label. In this series, Bernstein presents his unique combination of Jewish musical tradition, jazz, Afro-Cuban music, Soul, and Rhythm and Blues.
For this premiere performance in Israel, Bernstein has gathered three American and three Israeli musicians for a septet. Together they will present rhythmic, dance-generating, funky and colorful arrangements for traditional Jewish numbers, such as “Ma Nishtanah" “Let My People Go" “Mazinka" (better known in its Hebrew version as a children's birthday song), “Aveenu Malkenu," a familiar Chasidic wedding song and more.
Steven Bernstein: trumpet; Paul Shapiro: tenor saxophone; Yakir Sasson: baritone saxophone; Erik Deutsch: keyboards; Assaf Hakimi: bass; Roberto Rodriguez: drums; Gilad Dobrecky: percussion
15/2 Tuesday, 22:30, Hall 2 Albert Beger and Hamid Drake—Fire from Within World Premiere, Special Festival Production (Israel, US)
About six years after the first musical encounter between Albert Beger, the Israeli Free Jazz veteran player and the super drummer Hamid Drake, the two will join together as a duo, for the first time on a festival stage. The event promises to be an outstanding musical event.
The two musicians, phenomenally skilled in interpreting “the art of the moment" music, are fired by intense inner energies. Together, they will perform original works, open to improvisation and expressive emotion.
Albert Beger: saxophones; Hamid Drake: drums and percussion
16/2 Wednesday , 20:00, Hall 1
Jaleel Shaw meets the George Colligan Trio (USA) Israel Premiere, Special Festival Production
One of the rising stars in jazz, Jaleel Shaw, alto saxophonist, joins the George Colligan's Trio (see details in the Come Together performance listing) in a special Festival production.
Shaw, a 32-year-old native born Philadelphian, blended smoothly into the New York jazz scene on his arrival there in 2000. He already has two albums to his name that received rave reviews. His playing, with its own personal, easily identified sound, is characterized by rich imagination and fierce emotion, coupled with spectacular technique. This makes Shaw one of the most esteemed saxophonists in New York.
Aside from the ensemble he leads, Jaleel is a regular member of the combo led by the legendary drummer Roy Haynes (with whom he will also perform in Israel), as well as the Mingus Big Band, where he plays with all the members of the George Colligan trio. Jaleel has also played with stars such as Roy Hargrove, Christian McBride, Dave Holland and Jason Moran.
Together with Colligan, Kozlov and Edwards, Shaw will perform original pieces composed by the group's members, well loved standards and several special arrangements for compositions of one his favorite composers and players—Wayne Shorter.
Jaleel Shaw: alto saxophone; George Colligan: piano; Boris Kozlov: contrabass; Donald Edwards: drums
16/2 Wednesday , 20:00, Hall 2
The Shauli Einav Quartet/Quintet with Tigran Hamasyan—Opus One(Israel/Armenia/US) Special Festival Production and World Premiere
The Israeli saxophonist and composer Shauli Einav has gained a well-deserved reputation for his music on the New York jazz scene in the past few years. At an early age, he won recognition and acclaim—winning the ASCAP Composer's Award, a scholarship from the America-Israel Culture Foundation and a Billy Joel scholarship.
His second album, Opus One, on which the performance is based, has just come out under the quality international Parisian label Plus Loin Music.
The saxophonist Walt Weiskopf says that Einav has “a vivid imagination in playing and the ability to improvise in an authentic, sophisticated manner, at the highest level of today's jazz."
Einav and the international pianist Tigran Hamasyan, who have played together previously in New York, will appear together for the first time in an international festival. The collaborative efforts of these two rising jazz stars promises a new, daring and brilliant twist to Einav's music.
Shauli Einav: saxophones; Tigran Hamasyan: piano; Or Bareket: contrabass; Amir Bresler: drums; Yonathan Voltzok: trombone (guest appearance)
16/2 Wednesday , 22:30, Hall 1
Nicole Mitchell—Indigo Trio (USA) Israel Premiere
Nicole Mitchell, flutist, composer, band leader and jazz educator, has gained widespread recognition and status in recent years as one of the outstanding musicians, active in Chicago's jazz scene. In 2010 she was awarded the title “flutist of the year" from the USA Jazz Journalists Association. She was also named by Downbeat a “Rising Star" in the category of jazz flutists, between the years 2005-2010.
Mitchell's playing and composing demonstrates a vivid imagination, intense emotion and ongoing communication with the audience, alongside marvelous and innovative technique on the flute. The Indigo Trio that she brings to Israel, for their premiere performance in Tel Aviv Jazz festival, is based on the freedom and creativity of all three members; all of whom are actively connected with the musical roots of the AACM, which represents Chicago Style free jazz.
“a compelling improviser of wit, determination, positivity, and tremendous talent... on her way to becoming one of the greatest living flutists in jazz" (Peter Margasak, Chicago Reader).
Nicole Mitchell: flute; Harrison Bankhead: contrabass; Hamid Drake: drums and percussion
16/2 Wednesday, 23:30, Hall 2
Arik Strauss Trio—Back from Paris Special Festival Production
The pianist and composer Arik Strauss has returned to Israel after several months in the artists' quarter in Paris. While there, he composed new material that he also recorded with Parisian musicians.
In a special Festival premiere, Strauss' trio will present his new materials, along with original arrangements of well-known standards.
The new trio includes young and experienced musicians who have been active in recent years in New York, along with music greats on the New York scene.
Arik Strauss: piano; Tal Ronen: contrabass; Gasper Bertoncelj: drums
17/2 Thursday, 20:30, Hall 1
Dee Alexander Quartet—Wild is the Wind (US) Israel Premiere
Dee Alexander (Illinois, US, 1955), also known as the “queen of Chicago," is one of the most outstanding jazz vocalists and composers on Chicago's music scene during the last decade. Her deep, warm voice and her control of many musical styles allow her many challenging musical collaborations.
As fitting for someone raised by Chicago's greatest musicians, and as a member of Chicago's famous AACM, Alexander, in her compositions and her singing, combines soul funk and blues with jazz. She uses her voice as a musical instrument, taking it far beyond mere singing. She gives the texts she presents a profoundly personal interpretation.
Alexander has collaborated on stage and in the recording studio with many leading jazz artists, including Ahmad Jumal, Joshua Redman, David Sanborn and Roy Ayers. She appears in many projects worldwide; at festivals throughout the US and Europe.
Alexander's last album, her third in number, entitled “Wild is the Wind," reaped rave reviews, establishing her status as one of the most outstanding singers in recent years. The album includes her own original pieces and those of members of her group ensemble, alongside performances of songs identified with Alexander's cultural mentors—Nina Simone and Dinah Washington.
“For Dee Alexander, taking flight is both a vocal technique and the realization of a dream." (David Whiteis, Jazz Times).
Dee Alexander: vocalist; Miguel de la Cerna: piano; Harrison Bankhead: bass; Erine Adams: drums & percussion
17/2 Thursday, 20:30, Hall 2
Ayelet Rose Gottleib—By the Roadside with special guest:Alon Oleartchik Special Festival Production
The singer and composer Ayelet Rose Gottleib has recently returned to Israel, after many years residence in New York.
Gottleib is no ordinary jazz singer. Her work combines elements from a variety of musical worlds: jazz, cantorial music, avant-garde, classical and the music of the East. She uses her voice not only as a voice, but as a musical instrument. During her career Gottleib has collaborated with John Zorn, Joe Lovano and Bobby McFerrin. She has released four albums that were highly acclaimed.
In her performance “By the Roadside," Gottleib presents original compositions for poetry by various poets such as Aggie Mishol, Nathan Zach, and Yehuda Amichai. The performance is a special production for Festival, in which she will be joined by Alon Oleartchik, for the first time, to present several of the songs.
Ayelet Rose Gottleib: voice; Yael Zamir: oboe; Udi Horev: classical guitar and oud; Ora Boazson Horev: contrabass; Dani Benedict: drums and percussion. Special Guest: Alon Oleartchik
17/2 Thursday, 23:00, Hall 1
Tigran Hamasyan Trio—Israel Premiere (Armenia-US)
Tigran Hamasyan, the young Armenian pianist and composer, brings his passion for playing music, intense expression and winning imagination to the stage.
Hamasyan, born in 1987, is perhaps the latest great discovery in jazz piano in the past few years. His work brilliantly and surprisingly blends many diverse influences, from Armenian to classical to rock music.
Hamasyan is considered a natural talent. As of the age of two, he began singing and accompanying himself on piano. At the age of 7, he started formal music studies and as early as the age of 13 began appearing in jazz festivals in Yerevan.
Between 2000-2008, the international jazz world became aware of Hamasyan's fascinating art and gradually he began receiving international recognition from many jazz greats such as John Mclaughlin, Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter. Hamasyan also collaborated with two of the most important figures on the European scene, the bassist Pierre Michelot and the drummer Daniel Humair.
In 2006, Hamasyan won first place in the Thelonious Monk piano competition. As of 2008 he has played in Paris and New York, where he established the trio that will attend the Tel Aviv Jazz Festival with him.
Tigran Hamasyan: piano; Sam Minaie: double bass; Mark Guiliana: drums
17/2 Thursday, 23:00, Hall 2
Ofer Peled—Ararat Special Festival Production
Ofer Peled is one of the leading woodwinds performer and composer in the field of ethnic jazz in Israel. In his new project “Ararat," Peled and his ensemble of musicians combine Arabic, Turkish, Gypsy, African, Yemenite and Indian music with modern jazz and original compositions.
Peled is sought after by artists from various fields, from singers Yehudith Ravitz and Shalom Hanoch to Avi Leibowitz and the Hagroovatron. He has traveled throughout the world and studied many diverse musical styles, concentrating in recent years on polishing his unique style that has been influenced by all he learned and played on his travels.
In this performance, the musicians of “Ararat" will play a wide variety of instruments, some of which are characteristic of jazz, and others which are traditional ethnic instruments. This combination creates an enjoyable international encounter between East and West, North and South.
Ofer Peled: saxophones, flute, Kaval (Bulgarian flute), Bansuri (Indian flute); Gershon Waiserfirer: oud, baritone; Ido Zeleznik: keyboard; Avi Agababa, Gilad Dobrecky: percussion; Assaf Hakimi: contrabass; Yigal Mizrahi: vocals
Friday, 20:30, Hall 1
The Dee Alexander Quartet—Sirens of Song: A Tribute to Nina Simone and Dinah Washington
The singer Dee Alexander and her back-up ensemble (see details in the Wild in the Wind performance) will present a special program based on her personal interpretations of the repertoire identified with two of the figures who inspired her the most as a woman and as a musician.
The program was specially ordered by The Jazz Institute of Chicago and The Chicago Jazz Festival for an audience of thousands...
Nina Simone and Dinah Washington had an enormous impact on the world of music. Their musical style, never limited to one particular genre, was influenced by blues, R&B, soul and, of course, jazz. The two divas had glorious careers lasting for many years. Dee Alexander and her musical arranger—Miguel de la Cerna—have succeeded at a venture at which many have failed. They have arranged new, fresh arrangements for the classics of the two divas, without losing the piercing nature of the originals.
Dee Alexander: vocalist; Miguel de la Cerna: piano; Harrison Bankhead: bass; Erine Adams: drums & percussion
Friday, 20:30, Hall 2
Themes and Variations: Ofer Shapiro's Ensemble hosts Mamelo Gaitanopoulus
Saxophonist and composer Ofer Shapiro, in his debut performance as ensemble leader at the Tel Aviv Jazz Festival, will present his compositions and rich arrangements for his superstar group, headed by a four-horn section. The ensemble will also host the veteran international musician Mamelo Gaitanopoulus.
Shapiro has been active in Israel in recent years, after a long stay in New York, where he studied composition and arrangement with teachers such as James McKinley and Mike Mussman.
Most of the materials the group will perform are based on Shapiro's recently released debut album “Two Views," with the participation of the superb baritone player Gary Smulyan.
Roei Hermon: trumpet; Merav Goldman: French horn; Yonathan Voltzok: trombone; Ofer Ganor: guitar; Assaf Hakimi: double bass; Shay Zelman: drums; Soloist: Ofer Shapiro: saxophones and flute; Special Guest: Mamelo Gaitanopoulus
18/2 Friday, 23:30, Hall 1
Tel Aviv-Paris-New York—The Tel Aviv Jazz Orchestra features Efrat Gosh
Arranger, Musical Director and Conductor: Amikam Kimmelman
Efrat Gosh, singer of the year 2010, is one of the most fascinating and original singers on the Israeli music scene. Her unique voice and personality allow her to cross the lines between various musical styles, from rock to Latino to jazz and soul.
The Tel Aviv Jazz Orchestra, the oldest and most prominent jazz orchestra in Israel is composed of 18 virtuoso jazz musicians. Over the years, the orchestra has hosted many well known singers such as Shalom Hanoch, Rami Kleinstein, Nurit Galron and Marina Maximilian Blumin, leading to distinctive and refreshing musical collaborations.
In the Jazz Festival, Efrat and the orchestra embark on a world-encompassing musical journey that will include a selection of American standards by George Gershwin and Nat King Cole, familiar French chansons, and, of course, Efrat's greatest hits, in special arrangements by Amikam Kimmelman for this festive event.
Musicians: Hod Moshonov : piano; Dima Grodsky: bass; Roi Oliel: drums ; Robert Anchipolovsky , Dima Pyanin, Eitan Gofman, Alen Bassin, Omri Abramov: saxophone; Doron Silashi, Yuval Peled, Aidlin Viacheslav: trumpet; Maayan Milo, Oren Frenkel, Yonatan Voltzok: trombone; Rami Shuler: vibraphone and percussion; Dekel Bor: electric guitar
18/2 Friday, 23:30, Hall 2
Danny Adler Trio—Back Home in Tel Aviv (USA-Israel) Special Festival Production
The guitarist Danny Adler, native of Tel Aviv and a resident of the US for the past 25 years, combines a thriving high-tech career with his love of jazz, in general, and guitar playing, in particular.
During the past two years, Adler has won considerable recognition on the New York jazz scene, and recorded 2 successful discs, together with other prominent jazz musicians such as Joey DeFrancesco, the organ player and Grant Stuart, the saxophonist.
Adler was first influenced by the pioneers of Israeli jazz (Kamisky, Gottfried, Magen and others) whose performances he attended in his youth. He also notes Avri Sharon, Gil Dor, Nahum Perperkovitz, Menachem Weisenberg and the saxophonist Steve Grossman, as teachers and mentors who taught him the basics of jazz artistry and the brass tacks of performing and recording.
In the festival performance, Adler will play original compositions and standards that he has included in his latest albums, in the classic combo of a guitar-bass-drums trio.
Danny Adler: guitar; Tal Ronen: contrabass; Amir Bresler: drums
Tuesday, Lobby (Free of Charge)
Smooth Sailing: Simona Arones and Alec Katz Quartet
The singer Simona Arones, together with the trio led by pianist and arranger Alec Katz, will combine original pieces by Simona Arones, influenced by Brazilian music, and bi-bop arrangements of standard jazz greats.
Simona Arones: vocals; Alex Katz: piano; Ofer Ganor: guitar; Avri Borochov: bass
Wednesday, Lobby (Free of Charge)
Naomi Kern Quartet—Critical Jazz
The Dutch-born singer Naomi Kern has recently immigrated to Israel and joined the local jazz scene. She will perform her own arrangements for well known American standards, accompanied by a combo that has been formed especially for the Festival.
Naomi Kern: vocals; Deborah Dery: piano; Max Oleartchik: bass; Noam Israeli: drums
Thursday, Lobby (Free of Charge)
Belly White—The Yaron Ozana Quintet
Four members of the “Apples," and the international drummer Yuval Gabay, have joined together for a special performance that explores the thin line between funk and electronic music, between jazz and soft psychodelia.
The result is presented in original pieces, alongside arrangements of familiar standards.
Yaron Ozana: trombone, special effects; Yakir Sasson: baritone saxophone, flute, clarinet; Alon Carmeli: contrabass; Erez Todres: turntables; Yuval Gabay: drums
Friday, Lobby (Free of Charge)
Psycho Yogi—Kobi Solomon Quartet
A new and promising combo, headed by saxophonist Kobi Solomon, mixes jazz with South American folk music and combines jazz standards with innovative original arrangements in a sizzling blend.
The diverse musical and geographic backgrounds of combo members creates a fascinating, festive patchwork of colors and sounds.
Kobi Salomom—wood winds; Yoav Yenon—guitar; Gilad Dobrecky —percussion; Simon Starr—contrabass
