Drawing on his wealth of experience in music theory and performance, Cologne-based pianist Clemens Orth often plays so-called ‘unique concerts’ – concerts that are characterised by a holistic improvisation developed by him. He also improvises on non-musical themes that are called out to him ad hoc, and encores are often based on requests from the audience. With bassist Robert Landfermann and drummer Leif Berger, he has two congenial musicians with him who follow him on his path without any ifs or buts and can incorporate any of his thematic, harmonic or rhythmic twists and turns off the cuff. When the three musicians interact with each other, the result of their respective improvisational process is just as important as the actual process itself, in which the supposed contrast between improvisation and composition has no meaning whatsoever.
Clemens Orth – p
Robert Landfermann – b
Leif Berger – dr