- A CONCERT FOR GROUP AND ORCHESTRA -
The soft, warm pillow of a "classical" orchestra embraces the ever-fresh improvisations of a jazz ensemble. Symphonic instruments arranged to welcome the unexpected. Contemporary jazz, free from prejudice and limits.
An orchestral set ready to gently accommodate what jazz musicians improvise in real time, without distorting its inherent symphonic character (meaning the orchestra does not play swing, jazz, or anything foreign to its own nature).
An exquisite combination —both refined and intensely vital— giving extraordinary meaning to the experience of live music. Something capable of pleasantly surprising the cultivated listener while, at the same time, enchanting new audiences.
Born from an open and integrative conception of jazz, within the frame of the BIRTH OF THE RITUALS project, it becomes a generator of ever-new ideas, created and developed in the course of each performance. An exceptionally significant proposal, intended for contemporary audiences expecting and deserving more than just entertainment.
FIRST TASTING
Producer Frank Andrada promoted a recording of THEMES III in 2024
Juan Pablo Balcázar, Genís Bagés, Josep-Manel Vega and a youth string orchestra recorded a first attempt for this music, which will be released by Pol&Lo Entertainment
THEMES III
Part 1 (23:55)
Part 2 (13:10)
Part 3 (11:04)
Total time: 48:09
JOSEP-MANEL VEGA - guitar
JUAN PABLO BALCÁZAR - upright bass and fretless bass
GENÍS BAGÉS - drums
Produced by FRANK ANDRADA
PREMIERE
Conductor Nicolás Ravelli, leading the Xove Orquestra de Lugo Terra Nova, performed THEMES IV for the first time in a small but complete symphonic format last November 5th in Lugo (Spain) in the frame of the 25th edition of the LUGO JAZZ FESTIVAL.
Xove Orquestra de Lugo
Nicolás Ravelli
Besides the youth symphonic orchestra, a rhythm section, also made up of young local musicians, was assembled for this particular occasion.
(High quality audio and video recordings made by the organisation will not be available for several months. Nevertheless, this lower quality video summarises the essence of the concert.)
INTERNATIONAL ENSEMBLE
While currently working on funding the BIRTH OF THE RITUALS project and matching the right partner to spread the proposal worldwide, an international dream band for this music has been put together. A regular ensemble, including a regular conductor, made up of the most suitable musicians —properly trained under specific guidelines— will perform alongside each orchestra in each location around the world.
Alex Hitchkock
Chris Jennings
Laura Klain
Josep-Manel Vega
Nicolás Ravelli