Anniversary gala: Arild Andersen with guests
When the program makers of the Kongsberg Jazz Festival wanted one of our central jazz musicians to assemble his dream band to mark the 50th edition of the festival, it was only natural that they turned to the bassist Arild Andersen. He has been the festival's faithful supporter ever since he played here for the first time in 1967. Already in 1971 he was on stage in the Kongsberg cinema with Sonny Rollins, and he has been an important part of a number of the festival's concert highlights. But Arild Andersen doesn't get this assignment solely based on his past achievements, but because he is still one of the finest bass players you can hear. He is not only a big name in Norway and the Nordics, but to a large extent also internationally.
The Swedish pianist Bob Stenson was also at the Rollins concert in 1971, and he will be at the anniversary concert. Bobo Stenson is one of these Scandinavian musicians who not only shines in the Nordic jazz scene, but to a great extent also in the international scene. Ever since he together with Jan Garbarek had one of the finest jazz groups the world has ever heard, he has had a special place in the consciousness of Norwegian jazz listeners. He has played with "everyone" - from Dexter Gordon to Charles Lloyd and Paul Motion, and for many years has led his own, absolutely exquisite trio. He has of course played at Kongsberg many times.
The drum legend Billy hart is also one of Arild Andersen's chosen ones. He has for a number of years belonged to jazz's absolute elite class. He is a very flexible drummer who always influences the bands he plays in in a positive way. Such a skilled musician is of course in demand, and the fact that Billy Hart has been involved in over 600 recordings and has played with such prominent musicians as Stan Getz, Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock and McCoy Tyner, confirms his qualities.
The saxophonist Bendik Hofseth is also one of Arild Andersen's hand-picked musicians for the anniversary concert. "Bendik plays better than ever", was Arild's reason for bringing him along, and it is of course a good enough reason when it comes to the saxophonist who took over from Michael Brecker in "Steps Ahead". He has also reached a large audience with his records and concerts. Since he is involved in organizational life and teaching, he has not been heard that often in recent years. Fortunately, the opportunity is now there!
GUESTS! Anyone who turns up at the Kongsberg cinema for this concert will - in addition to this fine band - experience one or more guests. And there will be guests of the famous kind!
Arild Andersen (bass), Bobo Stenson (piano), Bendik Hofseth (saxophone), Billy Hart (drums) + celebrity guests!
