Gavin Bryars and his ensemble return to Cafe Oto for a special programme inspired by his jazz roots and collaborations. With Gavin on double bass, the group will perform pieces written specially for his own ensemble. The programme will also include a previously unheard arrangement of End Of Vienna, by Carla Bley, who passed away last year. Since 2017, The Gavin Bryars Ensemble have performed at Cafe Oto, choosing to play pieces or arrangements often not heard elsewhere as part of these special concerts.

On Carla Bley, for New York City Jazz Record In Memoriam, by Gavin Bryars: Whenever I am asked who is my “favourite living composer” I always answer “Carla Bley.” Now, with her passing, I can now longer say that, though no-one takes her place. We last saw each other at Big Ears in 2017 when, to her open-mouthed amazement, I sang the whole of The Tennessee Waltz to her outside the Tennessee Hotel as a “goodnight.” More recently she was delighted that I arranged End of Vienna for an orchestra concert I conducted in Tasmania, though by then she was no longer able to listen to recordings, she saw the score, and Steve was kept her in touch with the whole process. Now her sufferings are over, and I am currently writing a quintet for harpsichord and string quartet which is dedicated to her memory. Rest in Peace Carla.

PROGRAMME:

Sub Rosa (after Bill Frisell)
Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Electric Guitar, Piano, Electric Keyboard

The Flower of Friendship
Viola, Cello, Electric Guitar, Electric Keyboard, Double Bass

My First Homage (after Bill Evans)
Piano, Electric Keyboard, Double Bass, Electric Guitar

End of Vienna, by Carla Bley, ar. Bryars (New Version)
Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Electric Guitar, Piano, Electric Keyboard

Jesus’ Blood Never Failed Me Yet (Chamber Version 17’)
Viola, Cellos, Double Bass, Electric Guitar, Piano, Electric Keyboard

The Briar and the Rose, by Tom Waits and Kathleen Brennan, ar. Bryars
Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Electric Guitar, Piano, Electric Keyboard