28.06.2024 Events, Music

Marta Gornitzka Sings Poetry of Jonasz Kofta

After a successful launch in February, Marta Gornicka's "Poetry of Poland" series takes a new turn. Fresh off a triumphant evening showcasing the words of Agnieszka Osiecka, she now delves into the works of another Polish poet: Jonasz Kofta. Be prepared for familiar melodies—perhaps those reminiscent of swaying Brazilian sambas—infused with the richness of Kofta's lyrics!

Marta Gornitzka is an up-and-coming jazz vocalist known for her versatile and inventive approach to music. Her music is a blend of folk, blues, rock, and jazz, enriched by elements of experimental sounds. Marta embraces improvisation, allowing both herself and her band the space to reinterpret the stories woven into the songs.

Originally from Poland, Marta chose London as her base, drawn to the city’s melting pot of musical traditions. Here, she navigates the diverse landscape, fusing different styles and pushing the boundaries of her craft. Marta leads her bands with a collaborative approach, fostering an environment where every member is encouraged to contribute their creative ideas, all in service to and respect for the music.

Marta seamlessly weaves together her Eastern European roots and a deep appreciation for the Great American Songbook, creating a unique fusion within the jazz genre.

A few years back, she introduced ‘Poetry of Poland’ at the EFG London Jazz Festival, a project inspired by the works of Agnieszka Osiecka, a highly regarded Polish poet from the 20th century. Now, for the Jazz Café POSK, Marta is broadening her repertoire, offering her own interpretation of songs that could be considered part of the ‘Great Polish Songbook’. She delves into compositions by Krzysztof Komeda, Wlodzimierz Nahorny, and Jan ‘Ptaszyn’ Wroblewski, among others, showcasing her unique take on these musical gems.

Line up:

Marta Gornitzka – voice

James Pettinger – piano

Flo Moore – bass

Tom Ridout – saxophones

Rod Oughton – drums

Flo Moore – one of the most sought-after bassists in the UK. Flo Moore is a graduate of the Royal Academy of Music in London. She has performed with many established artists, such as Jordan Rakei, Jason Rebello (Sting), Keaton Henson, Richard Spaven, Judi Jackson, Hugh Harris (the Kooks) and many more.

James Pettinger – the pianist and occasional accordionist, is the bandleader for Stablefolk. Having studied jazz at Trinity Laban, his musical expertise encompasses a delightful blend of jazz and folk, making him an ideal fit for Marta’s project.

Tom Ridout – Tom Ridout is an award-winning saxophonist and recorder player who has quickly risen to prominence on the London jazz scene. A graduate of the prestigious Royal Academy of Music, Tom has won several accolades, including the Help Musicians Peter Whittingham Jazz Award and the Lancaster Jazz Festival Youth Jazz Commission. He is a prolific composer who has released his debut album “No Excuses” to great critical acclaim. With a unique energy and creativity in his performances, Tom has performed with some of the biggest names in jazz and has played at some of the most iconic venues in the UK. His dedication to his craft and passion for music make him one of the most exciting young musicians in the industry today.

Rod Oughton is a drummer, composer and bandleader based between London and Amsterdam. His compositions have been played on BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio Wales, and Jazz FM, and have been played live at venues such as the Bimhuis in Amsterdam and Jazz B in São Paulo, Brazil. He has released three albums in the last four years with different projects, the second of which (All Together Now! – Tomorrow’s New Quartet) was named Editor’s Choice by Jazzwise Magazine.

www.martagornitzka.wordpress.com

Video 1 (Marta Gornitzka Sextet: Poetry of Poland – EFG London Jazz Festival): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmFVqGbd-Xs

Video 2 (Marta Gornitzka Trio: Jazz Standards): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGXIDJzkVJ8

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