Mikołaj Trzaska is a Polish musician, composer, and one of the central figures in the Polish jazz and free jazz movement, known for his expressive style and emotional intensity. Born in Gdańsk in 1966, Trzaska originally made his mark as a founder of the prominent Yass movement in the late '80s and early '90s—a Polish form of avant-garde jazz influenced by punk rock, folk, and modern jazz. He established himself as a prodigious saxophonist, clarinetist, and bass clarinetist, as well as leading or being a part of several influential bands, including Ircha Clarinet Quartet and Miłość, one of the first bands in the Yass scene, which later became a cult phenomenon across Poland.

His discography ranges from avant-garde jazz to compositions influenced by Jewish music and Eastern European traditions. Mikołaj Trzaska continuously broadens his musical horizons and explores new terrains, as reflected in his diverse projects. Albums like "Duos" and "Stefan Węgłowski: Contemporary Jewish Music" illustrate his versatility and willingness to blend genres, merging jazz with elements of ethnic and contemporary classical music. "Mikołaj Trzaska Gra Różę," formed part of the soundtrack he composed for the acclaimed Polish movie "Róża," highlighting his prowess as a film score composer. Where albums like "Shofar" mix spiritual and traditional motifs, works like "Mikro Muzik" attest to his inventive and experimental approaches to sound and composition. Trzaska's extensive body of work, both collaborative and solo, marks him as a significant figure in shaping the direction of European jazz and improvised music.

Genres

Polish Modern Jazz

Latest Release

Ślina Trzaska

Mikolaj Trzaska

Ep - 4 Tracks - Released October 20, 2022