Sullivan Fortner: A jazz evening full of surprises in Vienna!

Sullivan Fortner: A jazz evening full of surprises in Vienna!

Vienna's musical scene experienced a brilliant evening: the celebrated jazz pianist Sullivan Fortner presented his current trio in the magnificent Mozart Hall of the Vienna Konzerthaus. The New Orleans native, known for his skillful blend of musical styles, captivated the audience with a captivating program of original compositions and jazz standards. Drawing from his creative pool, Fortner harmoniously fused influences from gospel to classical to jazz, promising a musical experience that is unique in terms of the diversity of genres. How krone.at reported, a lively dialogue developed between Fortner and his colleagues Tyrone Allen on double bass and Kayvon Gordon on drums, with the trio playfully exploring the boundaries of jazz music.

Virtuoso sounds and creativity

Known for his ability to dynamically change musical moods, Fortner devotes considerable time to crafting his soundscapes. In a departure from usual performances, he takes a spontaneous musical approach: without sheet music, which gives the actors more room for improvisation and creativity. “One of the obvious advantages is that I can control the melody and its delivery,” Fortner explained in an interview with Down Beat. He emphasizes that mutual support among musicians is crucial to creating the exciting and “fun scenarios” that underlie their performances.

The trio only formed in 2021, but has already celebrated several successes in recent years, including appearances at renowned jazz festivals. Fortner's vision of breaking genres and viewing music as a universal concept is reflected in his selection of pieces, which combine both classical and modern elements. With their distinctive approach, the trio will continue to attract attention not only at their performances, but also through upcoming releases.