I’ve written two projects for the HR Big Band: Cottacatya and City Lights.
Germany has a rich tradition of Radio Big Bands, with WDR, NDR, and HR (Hessischer Rundfunk) being three of the most renowned. Cottacatya was released on the HR CD Two Suites (available in the shop).
Cottacatya! is a musical suite entirely dedicated to the mysterious and fascinating life of one of our closest companions—or so we humans like to think: the cat.
Is it a mirror of our own lives? A relationship of equals between human and animal? Complete mutual understanding? I have my doubts. These questions inspired me to compose seven layered tracks that aim to make the underlying sense of miscommunication a little easier to bear.
And, well, whatever you might think—let’s face it—the cat is always the boss.
Christoph Stahl, HR Big Band Producer, on Cottacatya! (from the CD liner notes):
Individuality is key—it’s the foundation of originality, uniqueness, and extraordinary artistry. Artists have always strived to be individual, to stand out from the crowd of conformists. Martin Fondse is truly individual. His compositions are full of humor, and his style radiates what you might call “personality.” Martin Fondse has a rare gift: he tells stories through his music.
Born in the Netherlands, Fondse studied piano and composition at the Arnhem Conservatory before continuing his studies at the Cologne University of Music, where he was mentored by Bob Brookmeyer. He further developed his craft with Kenny Werner in New York, immersing himself in the latest jazz developments. These experiences shaped his compositions, earning him numerous international awards, such as the Jazz Composers Alliance Prize in Boston and recognition from the Parisian Euro Jazz Big Band Association.
Fondse has collaborated with renowned musicians like Pat Metheny, Vernon Reid, and Manu Dibango. However, his true passion lies with his own ensembles. His octet, the Martin Fondse Oktemble, has been active for over a decade, releasing three CDs. He also leads the 14-piece Groove Troopers, a “smart jazz, hip-beat, big-band trance” ensemble, which recently released an album. And when he composes for new projects, you’ll often find his cat under the piano, keeping him company.
— Christoph Stahl
Press Quotes:
“A true fireworks display of sounds, colors, and rhythms.”
— dk, Journal Frankfurt, 01/2004
“Martin Fondse’s music is rich, powerful, sensitive, innovative, steeped in tradition, and above all, deeply personal.”
— Martin Laurentius, Jazz thing 52, 02-03/2004
City Lights features compositions, written in 2004, inspired by cities around the world that have profoundly influenced my musical journey, with trumpet virtuoso Eric Vloeimans as the featured soloist.