The world of classical and contemporary music is alive and vibrant thanks to the diverse performances from several outstanding quartets. This year, the renowned Gershwin Piano Quartet will kick off the Interfinity festival with flair, promising to enthrall audiences with its innovative style of performance.
Scheduled for March 22, 2025, at the historic Gare du Nord, the quartet, founded in 1996, has gained popularity worldwide for its unique fusion of classical rigor and jazz improvisation. With four pianists at four grand pianos, they transcend the traditional boundaries of classical music by presenting original arrangements and newly composed pieces, anchoring their repertoire with improvisational techniques. According to the quartet itself, their approach is deeply personal, aiming to reinterpret works from across musical history: “At the center of the work of the ‘Gershwin Piano Quartet’ is always the very personal engagement with the chosen works, which far exceeds the usual limits of interpretation.”
Attendees can expect sold-out shows, as the quartet has consistently captivated audiences with their energetic performances and irresistible rhythms. With their blend of classic and contemporary styles, it's no wonder they are considered one of the leading ensembles on the international stage.
On another exciting front, the Hans Fickelscher Quartet delivered a fresh take on gospel music during their recent concert at the Christuskirche, revitalizing traditional genres with innovative twists. The ensemble, featuring percussionist Hans Fickelscher, guitarist Martin Wiedmann, tenor saxophonist Jürgen Häußler, and vocalist Beatrix Steinhübl, has been known to explore various musical styles. This performance, held on New Year's Eve, purposely deviated from the conventional gospel repertoire, opting to showcase their versatility by incorporating elements of blues, rock, and Latin grooves.
Steinhübl, who has been enthralled with gospel music since her teenage years, expressed her belief during the concert: “I first realized what it is all about there [in the U.S.]. It’s about expressing the innermost part of oneself.” This personal connection to the music shone through as the quartet engaged their audience, gradually encouraging them to participate actively, culminating with two encores after rousing applause.
Meanwhile, the Moles Ahead Jazz Quartet is making waves with their exploration of the vast field of jazz. Established in 2017, this ensemble combines the talents of seasoned musicians who have transited through multiple genres. From standards to fusion, and original compositions, Moles Ahead has carved out its niche.
Scheduled for January 17, 2025, at the Foyer im Kurhaustheater, this concert promises to explore the rich textures of jazz, influenced by various styles and eras. The audience can anticipate experiencing the musicians' extensive backgrounds, which include significant forays through rock, funk, and improvisation.
Jazz music itself is celebrated for its innovative nature, and the Moles Ahead quartet exemplifies the spirit of this genre. They convey their musical stories through unique arrangements and let spontaneity guide their performances. Performed at 7:30 PM with doors opening at 7:00 PM, concertgoers can enjoy this invigorative show at affordable ticket prices, ranging from €15 for students to €18 for regular admission.
Each of these quartets, whether performing classical interpretations, experimental gospel, or avant-garde jazz, contributes significantly to the musical fabric of our cultural experiences. Festivals like Interfinity not only bring communities together through music but also offer audiences new ways to engage with familiar genres.
Exploring the journeys of these musical quartets reflects the beauty of adaptation and the blending of genres. Their performances serve as reminders of the power of music to evoke emotions, tell stories, and bridge diverse audiences. Whether one is drawn to the sophisticated arrangements of the Gershwin Piano Quartet, the energetic reinterpretations of gospel by the Hans Fickelscher Quartet, or the exploratory nature of the Moles Ahead Jazz Quartet, there is something immensely rewarding awaiting every listener.