Music lovers in the city were in for a treat recently as The Landesjugendjazzorchester, or popularly known as The LaJazzO youth orchestra, from Baden-Württemberg, Germany delivered scintillating performances at Christ University and the Bangalore School of Music. Hosted by the Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Bengaluru, the band, comprising 29 musicians playing a host of jazz instruments, captivated us Bengaluru with some brilliant improvised music.
Sharing thoughts on their visit, orchestra musical director Michael Leuschner says they are very excited to be here. “It’s a great experience since it’s the first time in India for almost all of us. We are really thrilled also that we are not here as mere tourists but rather as performers to meet fellow musicians.”
The band’s double bass player Dittmann says they hope to check out some Indian music while they are here. “It’s got a very rhythmic approach and we’d love to carry back some good music experiences.”
On what they’d like their audience to take away from the experience, he points out that their most important aspect is their approach to music. “We’d like to translate the communication and fun we have while we are playing together to our audience to enjoy since we set out to do something new every time we are on stage.”
At the heart of their music is their connect with the audience, explains Michael. “We don’t just play for ourselves. We have a story to tell in musical terms. It shouldn’t be an academic approach. We rely on one another and everyone has a role and freedom in the band.”
Michael shares that jazz touches people in many ways. “Personally it’s the rhythm that got me first. And also since I’m classically trained, the harmony also interested me since it’s got a deep sense of harmony in it. It’s the coming together of Western European music as well as American and African music.”
Looking ahead, the talented pianist says jazz will always be the melting pot of different styles. “Even though people say its peak was in the 50s, it still brings music together. Jazz will always be the centre of improvised music. As long as we are the leading players in improvisation, there is no fear for the future.”
He further explains that music has a role. “It’s not just entertainment. It’s a cultural phenomenon. I firmly believe people play music since they are on the Earth. There is a purpose in it. And that’s what we like to share with our audience.”
On what inspired the name, Michael says it’s just a short term for Landesjugendjazzorchester, which translates to youth jazz orchestra of their area. “The expression became so popular because it was easy to say and it stuck.”
