On March 22, 2025, the renowned Gershwin Piano Quartet will grace the stage at the Gare du Nord in Basel, opening the latest edition of the event ‘Interfinity’ with their unique style. Founded in 1996, the ensemble has captivated audiences worldwide with its impressive combination of four pianists performing on four grand pianos. The quartet is known for presenting distinctive arrangements of famous works from music history, blending classical virtuosity with the vibrant energy of jazz improvisation.
The essence of the Gershwin Piano Quartet is beautifully encapsulated by their own description: ‘At the center of the work of the Gershwin Piano Quartet is the very personal engagement with the selected works, far exceeding the usual boundaries of interpretation. This ranges from faithful transcriptions to new compositions, incorporating improvisation and remix techniques.’ Their performances promise not just music, but the thrill of innovation and energetic creativity.
Shortly before the Gershwin Quartet, on January 7, 2025, the Christuskirche will host the Hans Fickelscher Quartet for their traditional gospel concert with some unexpected twists. This quartet, featuring percussionist Hans Fickelscher and his talented bandmates, transitions through various musical styles, showcasing their gospel pieces infused with blues, rock elements, and smooth Latin grooves. Beatrix Steinhübl, singer and pianist of the group, expresses her passion for gospel music, shaped significantly by her experiences in the United States. She remarked, ‘The incredible intensity with which gospel music is lived in the U.S. can hardly be found here.’
Fickelscher's quartet aims to redefine the gospel experience, demonstrating their versatility with pieces originally made famous by Whitney Houston. Their ability to balance improvisation and heartfelt performance invites the audience to connect emotionally, leading to engaged participation, demonstrated by the loud applause at the concert’s end.
Turning to January 17, 2025, the quartet Cats & Breakkies is set to perform at Moritzhof, blending various styles from club music and techno to jazz and art rock. Their performance is described as both danceable and immersive, appealing to those who want to lose themselves on the dance floor or analyze their complex soundscapes. Describes their style, ‘If you want to hear, you can dance. If you want to listen, you can engage with the details.’ This youthful quartet has garnered attention for its eclectic mix of electronic styles paired with live band energy, referring to their music as ‘Organic Electro.’
Lastly, on the same night, Moles Ahead—another diverse jazz outfit—will perform at the Foyer im Kurhaustheater, showcasing their wide-ranging influences from classic standards to modern fusion compositions. Since 2017, they have carved out their niche within the jazz scene, moving fluidly between genres. The group emphasizes their flexibility and experience, often citing how ‘Jazz is a vast field’—a sentiment echoed through their innovative arrangements and original works. Each member's individual musical history adds depth to their performances, creating rich and textured sound experiences.
These quartets redefine what it means to perform live music, trying to engage their audiences not only through traditional concert formats but also by pushing creative boundaries across genres. The upcoming events promise to be evenings filled with excitement, innovation, and the joy of music—inviting everyone to partake in the rich atmosphere each performance will uniquely provide.