Big Band Night

This concert, featuring the powerful sound of a big band and two female musicians in the spotlight, marks the kickoff of this year's Jazz Days! Big Band Kulmination feat. Katrin Kanya, conducted by Alfred Lang, with vocals by Katrin Kanya.

Twenty years of Big Band Kulmination lie behind this ensemble. Under the direction of Alfred Lang, the band has developed a distinctive musical character. The diverse program includes swing classics as well as contemporary compositions arranged by members of the big band. Classic big band sound meets innovative arrangements, enhanced by the charismatic voice of Katrin Kanya.

Big Band Weiz feat. Ilse Riedler "coming home" sax Ilse Riedler. There are many big bands, but few in this country have been active for over 40 years. Since 2008, Christoph Pfeiffer, the long-time lead trumpeter of Big Band Weiz, has taken over the leadership. He brings exciting ideas and energy, captivating the audience. Numerous guest stars such as Billy Cobham, Vienna Clarinet Connection, Raphael Wressnig, Gunhild Carling, Bill Laurance, James Morrison, and many more have been presented since then.

The guest musician for this year's Jazz Days performance is the fantastic saxophonist and composer Ilse Riedler. She has collaborated with international artists such as Michel Camilo, James Morrison, the World Saxophone Quartet, and with local musicians like Willi Resetarits, André Heller, and Russkaja (co-founder). As a member of Christian Muthspiel's Orjazztra Vienna, she was awarded the Austrian Jazz Prize (Best Live Act). Ilse Riedler is also a lecturer for saxophone (Senior Artist) at the Institute for Popular Music (ipop) at the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna.

Emiliano Sampaio Jazz Orchestra CD presentation "Life." Brazilian guitarist, trombonist, and composer Emiliano Sampaio, who has been living in Austria since 2012, is one of the most versatile voices in the international jazz scene. More than twenty released albums bear his name—as a bandleader, instrumentalist, or composer—and his projects effortlessly navigate between jazz, Brazilian music, and contemporary chamber music.

His new album "Life" is now the most personal and mature statement of his previous big band work. The music is diverse and colorful: poetic sounds, vocals, rock elements—music straight from the heart. The concert program connects the new music with classics from Sampaio's big band history, including audience favorites like the "Käsekrainer Blues."

These three big bands, with a total of 60 musicians, create an impressive breadth of impact. This diversity of musicians is reflected in an equally diverse and numerous audience. The wide range of musical influences and styles attracts a broad spectrum of listeners. Their collective presence ensures that the concerts are not only musically appealing but also culturally enriching.

Regarding the idea of the Big Band(s) Night: The now fifth edition of the Big Band(s) Night, which is popular among both musicians and the audience, aims to promote and network regional big bands from Styria and Austria. Through the artistic synergies that arise, unique and high-quality musical programs are to be brought to the stage, thus providing valuable impulses for the cultural life of the entire region.