The one and only Brad Mehldau

When he first arrived on the jazz circuit, he was referred to as “the new Bill Evans” or “the new Keith Jarret”. But with the passing of time, Brad Mehldau became Brad Mehldau in the end. The most brilliant and gifted master of jazz piano of today had established his own universe.

From Monk to Radiohead, and Johannes Brahms -who he has referred to on more than one occasion as his most important influence-, Brad Mehldau (Jacksonville, Florida, 1970) has travelled the course for 3 decades in many different formats, including his collaborations with classical music artists like singers Renée Fleming and Anne Sofie von Otter or by composing versions of themes by Radiohead and The Beatles. However, it has been the piano, solo or as part of a trio, where he has shone, displaying an intimate way with the instrument, which, as a sensational virtuoso, has avoided any sort of vacuous exhibitionism. Mesmerizingly lyrical, master of counterpoint and always surprising us, Brad Mehldau comes to the Teatro de la Maestranza accompanied by Larry Grenadier on the bass and Jeff Ballard on drums. In other words, along with his two colleagues, this is one of the most fascinating, enduring and attractive jazz trios on the international scene.

With a sound that is always Mehldau and, at the same time, always unpredictable and different. Open to surprise and discovery. With that emotional intensity that very few jazz pianists possess have to captivate an audience. “The man who whispers to pianos”, has described the artistry of Mehldau. It is amazing that a soft whisper can affect us so deeply.