On the border

Claude Bolling (1930-2020) was a jazz pianist, composer, and arranger who fully developed his style in France in the 1960s and 70s. On one hand, he had the freedom and swing of jazz; on the other, a fascination with classical music and orchestration. His most incredible popularity stemmed from works that combined both worlds, especially the Suite for Flute and Jazz Piano Trio, written in 1973 for Jean-Pierre Rampal.

It is not pastiche or stylized play, but a genuine dialogue between classical sound and the language of jazz. The flute parts are written in a classical style, with clear structure and articulation. The piano, double bass, and percussion play freely, in a jazz idiom, with improvisational pulse and swing.

The first suite consists of seven movements-from the energetic Baroque and Blue, through the subtle Sentimentale, to the dance-like Irlandaise. The second suite, written later, expands the form and introduces new colors: elements of swing, blues, and Latin rhythms. Both suites became immensely popular-not only among jazz musicians but also classical flutists, who often perform them as concert or teaching material.

This evening’s program includes selected movements from both suites, performed by two flutists and a classic jazz trio. It’s music that is accessible, full of rhythm, charm, and humor-and for that very reason, it speaks to a wide range of listeners.

Bolling's Baroque and Blue performed by Jasmine Choi (flute), Hugh Sung (piano), Sam Minaie (double bass), and Nathaniel Smith (drums):