Christmas In Switzerland – Jazz on a Holy Night by George Gruntz (C 80/1980)
Jazz on a Holy Night, a musical dialogue between a jazz pianist and a church organist, was specially written for this edition by Swiss pianist, composer and arranger George Gruntz.
The work is performed by the composer himself on piano, electric piano and synthesizer, and another outstanding Swiss musician, Hannes Meyer, at the organ. The setting for this special Christmas programme is one of Switzerland’s most stately castles, the 11th century castle of Tarasp.
Musical content
1. George Gruntz: Christ is born – Salvation is yet to be achieved (1st movement)
2. George Gruntz: Jesus smiles (2nd movement)
3. George Gruntz: They nailed Him to the Cross (3rd movement)
4. George Gruntz: Blues for the Christchild (4th movement)
5. George Gruntz: Musical bridge I
6. George Gruntz: Musical bridge II
George Gruntz, keyboards; Hannes Meyer, organ
Production information
Musica Helvetica. Christmas In Switzerland MH-C80. Jazz on a Holy Night by George Gruntz. Produced 1980 for SBC / SRI by Lance Tschannen.
Background information
Switzerland is a small alpine nation shaped and influenced by great cultural cross-currents that have swept through Europe over centuries. Out of elements of diversity, the people of this country have forged a distinctly Swiss identity. And music is one of its most eloquent expressions. “Musica Helvetica” explores different facets of music in Switzerland from its earliest beginnings to the latest works of modern Swiss composers, from folk music to rock and jazz. This historical series span the years 1973 to 1998. These recordings are not available.
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