Aspects: Jazz in the Chamber Music Hall

The Rahel Talts Quartet is known for its fresh and unique sound on the European jazz scene. The group performs compositions by the up-and-coming Estonian jazz pianist and composer Rahel Talts. The musicians come from different countries, but met a few years ago in Denmark, where they also studied together.

The quartet’s music is best described as energetic, acoustic and melodic jazz, drawing on influences from Baltic and Nordic folk music, traditional jazz and, to some extent, pop music. Rahel enjoys combining simple, catchy, folk-inspired melodies with rich harmonies and groovy rhythms. The programme is complemented by the quartet’s own arrangements of Estonian folk songs.

In November 2025, the band released their new album 'Back and Forth', which also features the award-winning guitar virtuoso Rob Luft. The album is already attracting attention from European jazz lovers and critics alike. This followed the release of the equally well-received album 'Greener Grass' (May 2023), with which the quartet subsequently toured Europe – including Germany, France, Denmark, the Czech Republic, the United Kingdom, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia – as well as Asia, including Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia.

The Rahel Talts Quartet has already performed at numerous prestigious festivals, including Jazz Baltica, the Copenhagen Jazz Festival, Jazz à la Petite France, Nordischer Klang, Jazzkaar and many more.

Deutschlandfunk will record the concert and broadcast it at a later date.

Concert patrons: Marly and Ulrich Schlottmann

For over ten years, Sarah Chaksad has been making her mark on the European jazz scene with her medium-sized to large ensembles. The alto and soprano saxophonist, composer and bandleader is internationally acclaimed for her recordings and concerts. Her music combines compositional precision with emotional depth, and structural sophistication with sonic openness. With Sarah Chaksad AMELIA, the Swiss artist is now embarking on a new chapter. Etymologically, the name ‘Amelia’ dates back to Old Persian and is often associated with meanings such as strength, courage, vigour or effectiveness. Applied to Chaksad’s music, AMELIA stands for an active, alert engagement with the world: for music that takes a stand without becoming rigid, that allows for emotion without becoming sentimental, and that does not shy away from complexity but makes it a sensory experience. Chaksad’s compositions are powerful yet sensitive, rhythmically incisive, melodically fluid and rich in surprising twists.

It is where Chaksad’s carefully constructed structures meet the individual musicians’ styles that the music unfolds its very special energy. AMELIA stands for music that springs from the present and has an impact on it – bold, clear and full of great inner tension.

Deutschlandfunk will record the concert and broadcast it at a later date.

Concert patrons: Marly and Ulrich Schlottmann

Each in their own right is a experience in itself; together, they form a truly special duo: the renowned Spanish pianist Daniel Garcia and the acclaimed Swiss singer Andreas Schaerer create an unforgettable musical world. With his deep roots in flamenco and classical music, Garcia’s playing is characterised by technical mastery as well as soulful expression. Andreas Schaerer is a vocal artist like no other. With a seemingly boundless range and the ability to use his voice as a versatile instrument, he moves seamlessly between genres. These two are a perfect match: without any preconceptions, they navigate a wide variety of musical genres, demonstrating the utmost in musical wit and spontaneity. Wherever Andreas Schaerer performs, the halls are packed and the audience is regularly sent into raptures. He not only astounds with his virtuosity, but also possesses an enormous stage presence. Daniel García first studied classical piano before being introduced to the secrets of jazz by Danilo Pérez in New York. He is regarded as one of the most original and influential voices of the new generation of Spanish jazz. In 2024, Schaerer and García Diego were nominated as 'European Jazz Musicians of the Year' by the renowned French Jazz Academy.

Deutschlandfunk will record the concert and broadcast it at a later date.

Concert patrons: Marly and Ulrich Schlottmann

The musical collaboration between the acclaimed British pianist and composer Gwilym Simcock and the up-and-coming saxophonist and composer Emma Rawicz is characterised by a particular depth and freedom. Emma and Gwilym have composed pieces for one another and worked together on arrangements, drawing on the many musical influences they share. The great success of this musical project soon led them into the studio. Their debut album is due to be released by ACT in November 2026.

Their collaboration is a fascinating cross-generational encounter, yet at the same time perhaps simply a natural progression: both received a similarly thorough education in classical music and jazz at the renowned Chetham's School of Music in Manchester and the Royal Academy of Music in London. Both are eager to see where their shared musical adventure will take them as a firmly established ensemble. Their passion for rousing, energetic and joyful music is ever-present in their programmes.

Deutschlandfunk will record the concert and broadcast it at a later date.

Concert patrons: Marly and Ulrich Schlottmann