“Bird Migration” Big Band celebrating Charlie Parker

Thursday 2nd June
Two performances, one at 6pm and one at 8pm
JazzLeeds
Seven Arts

“the most expansive, expressive and exciting new jazz orchestral sound to have emerged in this country since the late-lamented Loose Tubes” - John Fordham, The Guardian

A 13-piece ensemble exploring and celebrating the musical ideas of Charlie ‘Bird’ Parker. Bird Migration is an innovative, cross-genre project from critically acclaimed composer, arranger, and pianist Hans Koller, and a stellar group of top jazz musicians. Expect a rich soundscape reflecting Parker’s revolutionary jazz innovations as well as his interest in contemporary classical composers. Bird Migration will bring together the different worlds of contemporary jazz and contemporary classical music inspired by Parker’s interest in Stravinsky, Varèse and others. Yet, the central theme is one of connection with the jazz tradition and a musical re-imagination of Parker's close relationships with his peers Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis, Tadd Dameron, Fats Navarro and others.

The project brings together players that have experience in diverse musical worlds, are characterised by a willingness to experiment, and are all committed to open improvising as well as being a disciplined part of an overall, innovative sound world.