Introduction
When you hear the word “jazz piano,” you might think of artists like Duke Ellington or Thelonious Monk. But there’s a new musician making waves in the jazz world, and her name is Sylvie Courvoisier. What sets Courvoisier apart from her peers is her unconventional approach to the piano, which has led to her becoming one of the most innovative and exciting jazz musicians of our time.
The Early Years
Sylvie Courvoisier was born in Switzerland in 1968, the daughter of two amateur musicians. Growing up, she was surrounded by music, but it wasn’t until she was a teenager that she became interested in jazz. At the age of 16, she began to study the piano seriously, taking inspiration from jazz greats like Bill Evans and Keith Jarrett.
The Unconventional Approach
What makes Sylvie Courvoisier’s playing so unique is the way she approaches the piano itself. Unlike many jazz pianists who rely on the traditional “melody-chord-solo” structure, Courvoisier creates music using a complex web of rhythms, textures, and harmonies. She often uses prepared piano techniques, which involve placing objects like screws or bolts on the strings to alter the sound.
The Collaborations
Over the years, Sylvie Courvoisier has collaborated with many of the most exciting musicians in the jazz world. Her partnership with violinist Mark Feldman has produced some stunning recordings, including the album “Live at Théâtre Vidy-Lausanne” which was named one of the top jazz albums of 2018 by NPR. She has also worked with saxophonist Evan Parker, drummer Susie Ibarra, and many others.
The Awards
Sylvie Courvoisier’s talent has not gone unnoticed. She has been the recipient of several awards, including the prestigous “Django d’Or in Switzerland” and the Swiss Music Prize, which recognizes outstanding artists in a variety of genres. In 2017, she was selected to join the prestigious MacDowell Colony, a residency program for artists and writers.
The Philosophy
For Sylvie Courvoisier, music is more than just a profession. It’s a way of life, and a way to connect with others. She believes that music has the power to transcend boundaries and bring people together, and her music reflects this philosophy. She often incorporates elements of classical music, free jazz, and even folk music into her compositions, creating a sound that is both unique and accessible.
The Future
As for the future, Sylvie Courvoisier shows no signs of slowing down. With several new collaborations in the works, including a project with the jazz trio Thumbscrew and a solo tour of Europe, she continues to push the boundaries of what jazz piano can be.
The FAQs
Q: What is prepared piano?
A: Prepared piano is a technique where objects like screws, bolts, or felt are placed on the strings of the piano to alter the sound. It was first developed by the composer John Cage.
Q: What is free jazz?
A: Free jazz is a style of jazz that emphasizes improvisation and often eschews traditional song structures or chord progressions.
Q: What is the MacDowell Colony?
A: The MacDowell Colony is an artist residency program in New Hampshire that provides living and working spaces for artists and writers.
Q: What is the Swiss Music Prize?
A: The Swiss Music Prize is an award that recognizes outstanding artists in a variety of genres, including jazz, classical music, and popular music.
Q: Who is Evan Parker?
A: Evan Parker is a saxophonist from the UK who is known for his work in free jazz and improvisation.
Q: Who is Susie Ibarra?
A: Susie Ibarra is a percussionist and composer from the US who has collaborated with a wide variety of musicians in genres ranging from jazz to avant-garde.
Q: What is the Thumbscrew jazz trio?
A: Thumbscrew is a jazz trio made up of bassist Michael Formanek, guitarist Mary Halvorson, and drummer Tomas Fujiwara.
Conclusion
Sylvie Courvoisier is a musician who is redefining what jazz piano can be. With her unconventional approach to the instrument, her deep commitment to collaboration and community, and her relentless drive to push the boundaries of what is possible, she is a force to be reckoned with in the jazz world. If you haven’t already listened to her music, we highly recommend giving it a try. Who knows, she might just become your new favorite pianist!