Four Swiss groups at jazzahead! 23 – 26 April 2015, Bremen

In its eight years of existence, jazzahead! has established itself as the most important international showcase-festival focusing entirely on contemporary jazz. The last edition in 2014 attracted more than 700 exhibitors from 38 countries as well as 2500 business professionals and artists from 50 countries. 12500 visitors enjoyed more than 100 concerts and showcases on thirty stages.

The bands performing at jazzahead! 2015 have all been selected by a several specialist juries. Amongst these are the Swiss outfits Bänz Oester & The Rainmakers, Fischermanns Orchestra, Florian Favre Trio, and Weird Beard.

Bänz Oester & The Rainmakers
Friday 24 April, 21:15 – 22:00, Halle 7.1
Upright-bassist Oester has teamed up with Ganesh Geymeier (tenor sax) and South Africans Afrika Mkhize (piano) and Aynda Sikade (drums) to produce a powerful blend of drive and lyrical meditations.

Fischermanns Orchestra:
Saturday 25 April, 20:30 – 21:00, Kulturzentrum Schlachthof
With more members than a football team, the Fischermanns Orchestra serves up a spicy and raucous stew of carnival, big band jazz and brass riffs from all over the world.

Florian Favre Trio:
Saturday 25 April, 23:00 – 23:30, Halle 7.1
Pianist Favre from Fribourg teams up with bassist Manu Hagmann and drummer Alexandre Maurer to deliver a groove-driven take on subtle ensemble playing.

Weird Beard
Saturday 25 April, 16:30 – 17:00, Halle 7.1
Saxophonist Florian Egli´s sax/drums/bass/guitar outfit Weird Beard are a highly adventurous, tight and exciting jazz/rock band in the mould of early Soft Machine, perhaps, but utterly contemporary.

jazzahead! Website
Bänz Oester & The Rainmakers Website
Fischermanns Orchestra Website
Florian Favre Trio Website
Weird Beard Website
Pro Helvetia Website
Fondation Suisa Website