Russian jazz is red hot under the leadership of maestro Igor Butman

Five-time Grammy winner and jazz bassist Christian McBride, New York saxophonist Chris Potter, and South Korean jazz singer Sun Nah will perform at the 17th International Triumph of Jazz Festival, said organizer Igor Butman on March 2, adding that the tradition of international jams between Russian and foreigners jazz musicians continues.

“One of those will be a trio with my brother Oleg Butman, and American trumpet player Mike Rodriguez,” said Butman, adding that another noteworthy participant will be Alina Rostotskaya, who sings in Russian and English.

“We have very topical and interesting jazz, and Alina Rostotskaya will perform some original music,” said Butman. “Our musical school is young, but there is a lot of passion in our jazz. Our foundation is a powerful army of classical music, and we have a very strong academic school.”

“All styles are interesting, and we say that there is Oklahoma jazz or Washington jazz, or Delaware jazz or Massachusetts jazz, or New Orleans jazz,” said Butman. “When it’s done with talent, when it amazes, excites, makes you think, makes you smile, evokes emotions, then it’s good jazz.”

Festival concerts will take place from March 27 until April 1 in the International House of Music (MMDM) in Moscow, as well as in Igor Butman’s Club in central Moscow, and the Gorkiy Culture Center in St. Petersburg.

Read more: World’s longest lasting jazz band? Balalike it!

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.