The Last Set - Live at the A-Trane - Walter Norris

Album Description

Experience the final live performance of legendary jazz pianist Walter Norris in this captivating live album, "The Last Set - Live at the A-Trane." Recorded on October 26, 2012, at the iconic Berlin jazz club A-Trane, this album is a testament to Norris' enduring legacy and his remarkable musical journey.

Joined by the talented Polish pianist Leszek Możdżer, this album features an intimate two-piano setting, allowing the intricate interplay and chemistry between the two artists to shine. The eight-track collection, spanning 51 minutes, showcases a blend of original compositions and jazz standards, each reimagined through the unique lens of Norris and Możdżer's collaborative spirit.

The album opens with "Tactics," a dynamic and engaging piece that sets the tone for the rest of the performance. Other highlights include "From Another Star," a hauntingly beautiful composition that showcases the pianists' delicate touch, and "Tsunami," a powerful and energetic piece that demonstrates their remarkable technical prowess.

Throughout the album, Norris and Możdżer's playing is marked by a deep sense of musicality, a keen understanding of jazz tradition, and a willingness to push the boundaries of the genre. The result is a live album that is as engaging and inspiring as it is technically impressive.

Released on November 30, 2012, by ACT Music, "The Last Set - Live at the A-Trane" is a fitting tribute to Walter Norris' extraordinary career and a testament to the enduring power of live jazz performance. Whether you're a longtime fan of Norris' work or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

November 30, 2012

2012 ACT Music+Vision GmbH+Co.KG

About Walter Norris

Walter Norris, born in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1931, was a pioneering American jazz pianist and composer whose unique style blended the intricacies of jazz improvisation with classical music, creating a sound that was distinctly his own. Norris began his musical journey at home, studying piano with his mother before advancing under the tutelage of local organist John Summers. His career took a significant turn when he became one of the few pianists to collaborate with the legendary Ornette Coleman, a testament to his musical prowess and deep understanding of jazz.

Throughout his career, Norris was known for his uncompromising approach to music, both in his performances and his teaching. His improvisations were renowned for their complex harmonies and melodic richness, making him a standout figure in the jazz world. Norris' influence extended beyond his performances, as he was also a dedicated educator, known for his painfully honest critiques that pushed his students to excel.

Norris spent the latter part of his life in Berlin, Germany, where he continued to inspire and influence the jazz community until his passing in 2011, just shy of his 80th birthday. His legacy endures through his recordings, which continue to captivate and inspire jazz enthusiasts worldwide.