Julie Mossay : soprano
Steve Houben : alto saxophone
+ The Nathalie Loriers Trio :
Nathalie Loriers : piano
Sam Gerstmans (or Philippe Aerts) : double bass
Rick Hollander : drums
+ String ensemble
Arrangements by Michel Herr
Lyrical soprano Julie Mossay, jazz saxophonist Steve Houben, the trio of pianist Nathalie Loriers and a string ensemble are the surprise ingredients of this project.
They revisit a selection of great American songs, in new and refreshing arrangements especially written by Michel Herr, who imagined a well balanced dialog between these amazing soloists and a string section.
The project was initiated by a commission by the Orchestre Royal de Chambre de Wallonie (B), and the premiere took place in May 2014.
From Gershwin to Cole Porter, from Duke Ellington to Joni Mitchell, all these songs are sometimes viewed as the last golden age of melody.
Jazz musicians have a tradition of using them as a springboard and a canvas for their improvisations.
"An American Songbook" features strong individuals, who build bridges between musical cultures, at the crossroads of popular American songs, jazz and classical music.
See some photos of the premiere concert.
Bookings : So What Productions, contact :
Some excerpts on Youtube :
Photos : Steve Houben, Michel Herr & Nathalie Loriers © Jacky Lepage
