Pérégrinations Goldberg

Album Description

Michel Godard, the renowned French jazz tuba virtuoso, presents "Pérégrinations Goldberg," a captivating exploration of Johann Sebastian Bach's Goldberg Variations, reimagined through the lens of contemporary French jazz. Released on December 30, 2016, via Naïve Classique, this album is a testament to Godard's extraordinary versatility and musical prowess.

Spanning 13 tracks, "Pérégrinations Goldberg" is a unique blend of classical structure and improvisational jazz spirit. Godard, accompanied by Nancy Huston on narration and Freddy Eichelberger on harpsichord, delves into the intricate themes of Bach's masterpiece, transforming them into a series of evocative, atmospheric pieces. The album opens with "Aria. Basso continuo" and concludes with its reprise, framing a journey through diverse musical landscapes.

Each track offers a distinct character, from the playful "Joual" and the haunting "L'aile de la mort" to the introspective "Mesure" and the dynamic "Variation sur variation." Godard's tuba weaves a rich tapestry of sounds, while Huston's narration adds a layer of poetic depth, and Eichelberger's harpsichord provides a classical anchor.

Born near Belfort, France, in 1960, Michel Godard has established himself as a pioneer in the world of jazz, continually pushing the boundaries of his instrument and genre. "Pérégrinations Goldberg" is a stunning addition to his discography, showcasing his ability to bridge the gap between classical and jazz traditions. With a duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes, this album is a compelling listen from start to finish, offering a fresh perspective on a timeless musical work.

December 30, 2016

Naïve/audivis

About Michel Godard

Michel Godard is a virtuoso French musician renowned for his mastery of the tuba and the serpent, an ancient brass instrument that predates the tuba. Born in Héricourt, France, Godard's musical journey began at a young age, leading him to become a member of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Radio-France at just 18. His career spans both classical and avant-garde jazz genres, making him a unique and versatile artist. Godard's technical prowess on the tuba is remarkable, with a warm, clear tone and an impressive ability to produce overtones, a technique known as multiphonics. He has collaborated with numerous notable musicians, including Rabih Abou-Khalil, Michel Portal, and Louis Sclavis, enriching his musical repertoire with diverse cultural influences. Beyond his performances, Godard is also dedicated to education, serving as a serpent teacher at Paris' Conservatoire national de musique since 2002. His work is a testament to his deep understanding and passion for both historical and contemporary musical traditions.