Reiner Witzel/Dave Kikoski Quintett feat. Alex Sipiagin

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This high-energy quintet, led by the exceptional New York pianist Dave Kikoski and the German saxophonist Reiner Witzel, already wowed a large audience at its premiere at the Grillo Theater in Essen in the spring of 2024. Boasting a top-notch lineup, the group features, among others, trumpeter Alex Sipiagin, who lived in New York for 30 years and played in the bands of Michael Brecker and Dave Holland, as well as in the Mingus Big Band; Russian bassist Makar Novikov, who lives in Germany who is, among other things, a permanent member of Alex Sipiagin’s band, and German drummer Tobias Frohnhöfer, known for his work as a member of the Richie Beirach Trio, among other things.

Dave Kikoski has been one of the most sought-after pianists on the New York jazz scene for many years and has played with Roy Haynes, Pat Metheny, Michael Brecker, Joe Henderson, and the Mingus Big Band—with whom he won a Grammy. In addition to numerous CDs he has released under his own name, he can be heard on countless recordings. Roy Haynes’ album “Birds of a Feather,” on which he appears alongside Kenny Garrett, Roy Hargrove, and Dave Holland, also won a Grammy. His unmistakable style makes every one of his performances an experience. Chick Corea said of him: “The brilliant playing of Dave Kikoski just smokes. His playing is sparkling.”

The versatile and internationally renowned saxophonist Reiner Witzel has been a strong and active voice in the national and global music scene for many years. After completing his studies in New York, productions and concerts with Richie Beirach, Dave Liebman, Alex Sipiagin, Maceo Parker, and many others earned him an international reputation. He has performed at festivals worldwide, including the Montreux Jazz Festival, the Montevideo Jazz Festival, and many others. With his longtime musical partner, the legendary American pianist Richie Beirach, and his bands “Witzel’s Venue” and “Drei im roten Kreis”—featuring guests such as David Sanborn, Vernon Reid, and Lew Soloff, he has released numerous CDs that have made it onto the British and Japanese jazz charts. After working on many productions with stars such as The Supremes, Third World, Fela Kuti, Udo Lindenberg, Defunkt, Roger Cicero, and many others, he has also gained a large following in the pop and world music scenes.

Richie Beirach says: “Reiner’s soulful, powerful playing inspires me to do things I’ve never played before—very intense and at the same time extremely warm and expressive, an interesting balance between fire, energy, and meditative calm.”

Lineup

Reiner Witzel - Saxophone
Alex Sipiagin - Trumpet
Dave Kikoski - Piano
Makar Novikov - Bass
Tobias Frohnhöfer - Drums

Eintritt: 33,00 EUR
Ermäßigt: 12,00 EUR

Tickets are available at tixforgigs.