Artists:
soloist Ola Onabulé (UK)
Latvian Radio Bigband
Conductor Ed Partyka (USA)
On January 24 at 19:00 at Dzintari Concert Hall, as part of the “Jūrmala Jazz” concert series, world-class jazz music will be performed by the Latvian Radio Big Band, internationally acclaimed British singer and composer Ola Onabulé, as well as one of the most outstanding contemporary big band leaders, Ed Partyka.
Ola Onabulé, characterized by a velvety strong voice and charismatic personality, will present his unique perspective on the synthesis of jazz, soul music, and R&B funk.
Born in London to Nigerian parents, Ola Onabulé is recognized as an excellent big band soloist and has performed with internationally renowned jazz orchestras such as the WDR Big Band, SWR Big Band, HR Big Band, Danish Radio Big Band, and others. Over the course of his career, he has appeared on major global jazz stages, including the Montreal Jazz Festival, Vancouver Jazz Festival, Edmonton Jazz Festival, and BBC TV.
“Jazz Quarterly Magazine” describes the singer: “Ola Onabulé is an artist whose velvety vocals exude soulfulness and depth.”
Onabulé draws inspiration from Nigerian rhythms and British soul music traditions, creating a unique sound that combines jazz-based improvisation, the energy of Afrobeat, and the emotional depth of soul music. His music often touches on socially significant themes – identity, social justice, and human values. Onabulé’s career spans more than two decades, during which he has released many successful albums, including “It’s The Peace That Deafens” and “Point Less”.
Meanwhile, Ed Partyka is one of today’s most prominent jazz composers, arrangers, and big band leaders. His creative journey includes work with the world’s most prestigious jazz orchestras and the creation of music that crosses genre boundaries. Currently, Ed Partyka is the artistic director and chief conductor of Finland’s UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra, as well as the musical director of the Zurich Jazz Orchestra. From 1999 to 2006, Ed Partyka was the musical director of the Vienna Concert Jazz Orchestra, and from 2000 to 2007, the musical director of the Sunday Night Orchestra. His compositions and arrangements have been performed by renowned big bands such as the Vienna Art Orchestra, Köln Radio Big Band, and NDR Big Band.
The collaboration between Ola Onabulé and Ed Partyka began in 2017 and has resulted in ambitious concert programs and arrangements that uniquely highlight Onabulé’s vocal nuances. Their creative tandem is also a powerful statement about the ability of art to cross boundaries and connect different musical traditions.
Approximate event duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
