Experience the eclectic musical journey of the Leo Genovese Trio, as they performed at the Passau Jazz Festival, held at Cafe Museum on 25 July 2023.
A Grand Opening Act
The Passau Jazz Festival kicked off in high spirits, following the conclusion of the Inntöne Jazz Festival. The opening act featured Grammy-winning pianist Leo Genovese, known for his work on Wayne Shorter’s final album, Live in Detroit. Genovese is known for his distinct musical style, having collaborated with the likes of Christine Tobin, Phil Robson, Leni Stern, and Franz Hackl.
Genovese’s own trio consists of Italian bassist Francesco Marcocci, and Macedonian drummer Aleksandar Petrov. The trio hadn’t played together much since their album release five years ago, making their performance at the Passau Jazz Festival all the more special.
A Fusion of Cultures and Genres
The trio captivated the audience with their powerful set, showcasing their cosmopolitan roots and blending various musical elements. Petrov, for instance, played the tapan, a traditional frame bass drum, adding a unique touch to the performance.
As the evening progressed, the band played tunes that combined Genovese’s Argentinian heritage with Balkan influences, as heard in ‘Macedonsko’. The audience was treated to an unpredictable yet harmonious musical experience.
The Anonymous Quintet: Bridging the Gap Between Jazz and Renaissance
In the second set, the trio was joined by Heinrich von Kalnein on tenor and soprano saxes, and Winfried Hackl on recorders, forming ‘The Anonymous Quintet’. The additional musicians demonstrated that the gap between jazz and renaissance music can be surprisingly narrow.
The quintet’s repertoire spanned from a saltarello to originals by von Kalnein, a prominent figure in the Austrian music scene. The inclusion of the recorder changed the timbre of the performance, adding a unique dimension to the jazz ensemble.
A Convergence of Musical Currents in Passau
The intimate setting of Cafe Museum, with its red Steinway piano, provided the perfect stage for the Leo Genovese Trio and their guests. In Passau, where three major European rivers meet, a multitude of musical currents came together, offering a memorable night for all jazz enthusiasts.
