Jazz&: Andy Middleton Quartett Spielboden, 29 Jan 25

THE ANDY MIDDLETON QUARTET performs original compositions that combine world music and European influences with the authentic feel of hard-swinging contemporary New York City jazz. Each composition takes the listener on a melodic journey through a landscape of deep harmonic colors and vibrant rhythms.

ANDY MIDDLETON is one of the top-tier saxophonists and jazz composers living in Europe today. “One of the strongest tenor and soprano saxophonists on the scene,” says Randy Brecker, Andy is a skilled improviser and composer whose breadth of expression ranges from fierce power to tender warmth, from lyrical beauty to rhythmic drive, which sounds contemporary and fresh while retaining a real sense of the saxophone lineage. His compositions, harmonically modern and melodic yet clearly rooted in the jazz tradition, provide the perfect setting.

Middleton’s unique voice as a player, arranger and composer has led jazz icons such as Ralph Towner, Kenny Wheeler and David Holland to collaborate with him. He has also performed and recorded with a long list of artists including Billy Hart, Maria Schneider, Richie Beirach, Renee Rosnes, Randy Brecker, Bob Mintzer, Ron McClure, Bill Evans, Lionel Hampton, Joey Calderazzo, John Abercrombie, Steve Rodby, Scott Colley and Adam Nussbaum. Middleton has received numerous prizes and awards, among them First Prize, Best Soloist, Best Arranger at the 13th Europ’ Jazz Contest, Belgium (1991) as well as Outstanding Jazz Soloist in Down Beat Magazine (1987). “… solos that demonstrate the absolute mastery of his saxophones, in emotional and technical terms. Every note hits the mark, but also reveals the notable feature of leadership, that nothing is done halfway.”