Bild © SHUTTERSTOCK

Commissioned by the Frankfurt Bach Concerts, the Frankfurt Radio Big Band premiered this project in 2018 to show how a contemporary Jazz Orchestra can approach Bach's oeuvre. It was a fascinating meeting of baroque austerity and jazz music looseness, of detailed composition and the freedom of improvisation. This time at the renowned Bach Festival in Leipzig. 

Jim McNeely | conductor

Leipzig
Bachfest Leipzig

Saturday, June 8th 2024
8 p.m.

German version

After the suite "Barefoot Dances and Other Visions" there is now a new work for the Frankfurt Radio Big Band by Jim McNeely. The composer-in-residence takes another look at the ensemble he has known for so many years and writes music for its members. Since then, some faces have been added and provide the background for new stories. The story continues... 

Bild © Ben Knabe

Jim McNeely | conductor

Frankfurt
hr-Sendesaal

Thursday, June 13th 2024
8 p.m.

German version and tickets.

Bild © Dovile Sermokas

Spotlight Jazz is a special after-work concert format that takes you into the world of jazz on a special topic. This time penned by students who have worked on the Miles Davis phenomenon in a longer project. What is behind his music, who is the man behind his coolness? Experience an evening revolving around one of the greatest geniuses in jazz history.

Frankfurt
hr-Sendesaal

Friday, June 14th 2024
7 p.m.

German version and tickets.

Bild © Sihoo Kim

Premiere in Würzburg: The Frankfurt Radio Big Band meets the three-time ECHO jazz award winner Sebastian Sternal, who not only plays the piano for this project, but also directs the band and has written brand new compositions. They will play music from the joint album that has just been released, and which is being presented live for the first time. 

Sebastian Sternal | piano & conductor

Würzburg
Theaterfabrik Blaue Halle

Sunday, June 23th 2024
7 p.m.

German version.

Bild © Kharen Hill

Sarah McKenzie is a renowned jazz singer and pianist. The Australian inspires her audience with her extraordinary talent, a strong stage presence and a very lively mixture of traditional jazz and contemporary influences. Her guest performance with the Frankfurt Radio Big Band promises to be a highlight of the open-air season, not only thanks to the beautiful ambience. 

Sarah McKenzie | vocals
Jakob Helling | conductor

Rheingau
Schloss Johannisberg

Sunday, June 30th 2024
11 a.m.
German version.