Michel Reis Trio feat. United Instruments of Lucilin : Quand Jazz et Contemporain se rencontrent
On Friday, May 24, the Trifolion in Echternach hosted the Michel Reis Trio, accompanied by the United Instruments of Lucilin ensemble, for a concert combining jazz and contemporary music. Composed especially for Lucilin, the piece, envisioned as a suite, oscillates between written music and improvisational passages.
The piece reflects Michel Reis’s characteristic style: « I compose quickly. We knew from the beginning what the instrumentation should be, so I composed for these instruments, » explains the pianist and composer. Guy Frisch, the ensemble’s Strategic Director, enthuses: « What we love about Michel Reis is that he’s not afraid to explore new horizons. Stepping out of our comfort zone and innovating is part of our DNA. That’s why the ensemble exists: we want to support the creation of a new repertoire, pushing the boundaries of art and music. Collaborating with Michel Reis, who has this ability to step out of his comfort zone, is a real pleasure and ultimately simpler than one might imagine. »
Friday’s concert was a rare event: « Whether in the world of contemporary music or from our ensemble’s perspective, this type of crossover between contemporary music and jazz is rare, » explains Guy Frisch. In 20 years, we can almost count on one hand the number of collaborations between United Instruments of Lucilin and jazz composers.
The event brought together jazz lovers and contemporary music enthusiasts alike. No need to be a music expert to be carried away by the various movements of the piece, which is both complex and rich in its composition. The clarinet, double bass, and piano solos elicited enthusiastic applause; the audience wanted more, inviting the musicians for a long encore.
Friday night’s concert was the result of a long-standing desire to create a joint project. Born in 2023, it was presented as part of the Like a Jazz Machine festival in Opderschmelz. On stage were musicians from the United Instruments of Lucilin ensemble, Michel Reis, and two other renowned musicians: drummer Jonas Burgwinkel and bassist Robert Landfermann. This second performance captivated the audience, and it is rumored that a recording is in preparation… stay tuned!
Photos: © Eric Engel