Music

“Excellent harmonic imagination, diverse playing, most interesting compositions, and obvious knowledge of jazz history as well as a personal voice: Paul Lay has got everything it takes to go right to the top and make a lasting career.” Martial Solal

“Paul Lay proves to be a major young major pianist of his generation.” Jazz Magazine

Billie Holiday was one of the greatest jazz singers of the last century; great because her voice and her music were a reflection of her feelings and experiences. Hers was more than just a voice: when you listen to Billie Holiday, you hear her soul, her heart, and a scream from a troubled childhood that led to her relentless struggle against racism.

Billie Holiday was a myth, and a myth is always difficult to describe. Yet, created in honour of Holiday’s centenary in 2015, pianist Paul Lay and video-maker Olivier Garouste’s unique and vibrant tribute to one of the greatest legends of the 20th century brings Holiday’s career, music and particularly her passion back to life for the 21st century. Garouste’s video includes archive footage of Holiday.

Musical programme :
Cheek to cheek
God Bless the child
Ain’t Misbehavin
Gloomy Sunday
Don’t explain
Strange Fruit
Caravan
Créations & improvisations (Paul Lay)
Paul Lay piano
Olivier Garouste video
The performance will last for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes with no interval.