Maria Faust Jazz Catastrophe (Estonia-Denmark)

The charismatic and eccentric composer and saxophonist Maria Faust will present her new power trio at this year’s Jazzkaar, performing both older pieces and fresh songs from the musician’s rich repertoire. Faust’s sound language is emotional and rich in contrasts, combining big band and classical music with free improvisation. She considers herself an experimental romantic who, in contrast to the atonal and expressive sound language, also loves pure harmonies and simple melodies.

Maria Faust is one of the most internationally recognised Estonian jazz musicians who has linked her work to the more experimental side of jazz music. She has won several prestigious awards both in Estonia and Denmark, including Jazz Musician of the Year 2016 and Jazz Composer of the Year 2019. Her rich creative period of recent years can be divided into two parts, where first one is punk-like, rather aggressive and conflicting, whereas the other is reflective and inward-looking, influenced by Estonian folk and religious music. Faust has also composed music for classical ensembles, including the choral work Mass of Mary and Woven Weapons for wind ensemble and percussion. Among other things, she currently teaches composition at the Copenhagen Rhythm Music Conservatory.