Chris Potter (Saxophon) & Craig Taborn Klavier

In the organizer's words:

The first concert of the new year is a real highlight in the more than fifty-year history of the Westfälischer Kunstverein's jazz series. Saxophonist Chris Potter and pianist Craig Taborn are two of the truly outstanding representatives of contemporary jazz.

Chris Potter started early and spectacularly: he played professionally from the age of 13. And when Charlie Parker veteran Red Rodney introduced the then 18-year-old boy from South Carolina to the New York scene in 1989, it was clear that a very special talent was on his way. Potter quickly established himself as one of the most sought-after saxophonists and thrilled both fellow musicians and audiences with a style that was deeply rooted in tradition and at the same time broke new musical and instrumental ground. He worked with great bandleaders such as Ray Brown, Herbie Hancock, Tom Harrell, Paul Motian and John Scofield, played with Steely Dan and the Mingus Big Band, and colleagues such as Pat Metheny, Christian McBride and Jack DeJohnette took part in his own recordings. Last year he toured the world in a quartet with Brad Mehldau, John Pattitucci and Brian Blade and is currently a permanent member of the band of legendary drummer Al Foster.

Chris Potter has worked regularly with Craig Taborn since his 2005 CD recording "Underground". Taborn, who is one year older than Potter, became known through his participation in the bands of saxophonist James Carter in the early 90s. This was followed by engagements with Roscoe Mitchell, Dave Douglas, Suzie Ibarra, Evan Parker and many other greats, also from the experimental scene. He was already a guest at the Kunstverein a few years ago and thrilled the audience with a breathtaking solo concert. For the New York Times, he is simply, movingly and quite rightly "...one of the best jazz pianists alive"

The concert will take place in the auditorium of the LWL Museum of Art and Culture. Admission is from approx. 19:30. You have free choice of seats.