George Gruntz

George Gruntz was a Swiss jazz pianist, organist, harpsichordist, keyboardist, and composer, renowned for his work with the George Gruntz Concert Big Band. Born in Basel, Switzerland, on June 24, 1932, Gruntz was an accomplished arranger and composer who collaborated with numerous notable jazz musicians, including Phil Woods, Rahsaan Roland Kirk, Don Cherry, Chet Baker, Art Farmer, Dexter Gordon, Johnny Griffin, and Mel Lewis. From 1972 to 1994, he served as the artistic director of JazzFest Berlin, further solidifying his influence in the jazz world.

Gruntz's discography is diverse and extensive, featuring albums like "Mental Cruelty," "Noon in Tunisia," "Monster Sticksland Meeting Two," and "Ringing the Luminator." His work often blended jazz with other musical styles, showcasing his versatility as a composer and performer. Gruntz passed away on January 10, 2013, at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of innovative jazz compositions and performances.

Genres

Big Band

Latest Release

From Sticksland with Love

George Gruntz

Album - 7 Tracks - Released December 1, 2015