Giannis Diskos - George Morfitis: Jazz meets Tradition

The virtuoso saxophonist and clarinettist Giannis Diskos (Imam Baildi, Chouska) collaborates for the first time with the exceptional pianist George Morfitis, for a performance that combines the music tradition of the Balkans with the sounds of modern jazz.

Giannis Diskos is a distinguished clarinettist and saxophonist from Edessa. He grew up in a musical family, listening to the music of North Greece and the Balkans. He has participated in numerous Greek recordings and has performed next to important Greek singers. He has been a member of the Greek band Imam Baildi since the creation of the group, with which they have performed in major international festivals, as well as a founding member of Chouska Ensemble.

George Morfitis is a jazz and latin pianist from Cyprus. After studying in Havana (Cuba) and the Codarts Conservatory of Rotterdam (Netherlands), he returned to Cyprus where he now performs regularly with different bands and teaches at the ARTE Music Academy. His main music project is Macumba – a band performing original compositions in latin music style –, while he is also directing and conducting The Paphos Big Band.

The two musicians will put together their diverse musical influences, bringing closer the world of tradition and the universe of jazz while they playfully rearrange well-known folk tunes as well as compositions from the repertoire of contemporary jazz and world music. Oriental modes will come across jazz harmony and latin grooves, creating a unique and exciting musical combination. Special guests will also join the concert for a few pieces.