Pedro Giraudo Jazz Orchestra

"an opulent listening experience of modern, orchestral jazz, brimming with passionate improvisations, deliberate contrapuntal melodies and plush harmonies.” — John Murph, Downbeat

 Since its debut performances at the Jazz Standard in Spring of 2009, "El Viaje" — the latest CD release by Argentine composer, arranger and bassist Pedro Giraudo — has captured the attention of some of the country's most seasoned music critics, solidifying his reputation as one of New York's most creative and daring bandleaders.

 Peter Watrous, writing in Descarga, called it “another masterwork from Giraudo, an Argentinean bassist living in New York and running one of the most impressive orchestras around . . . It’s often brilliant, and it’s always careful. Highly recommended.”

 The return engagement at the Jazz Standard will feature the music of El Viaje, as well as a new suite and other music that was commissioned as part of the Jazz Gallery's Large Ensemble series and will be the centerpiece of the next CD, to be recorded in May of this year.

 Commenting on his approach to composing, Giraudo noted, "I've been honored to have the loyalty of some of New York's top instrumentalists who have stayed with me, some as long as 10 years. When I compose, I don't think in terms of sections — I think in terms of every one of them as a soloist, each unique in his own way.  I feel privileged to have such incredible talent with me — every time we perform, I am astounded at the depth of expression they bring to my music."

 In the Village Voice Jazz Critics Poll 2009, El Viaje made the top 10 lists of both George Kanzier (Hot House, All About Jazz-New York, JazzTimes) and Marcela Breton (Jazz Journalists Association). Fernando Gonzalez of The Miami Herald picked El Viaje among his short list of releases of contemporary Latin jazz. And All About Jazz selected it among their "Best of 2009 Latin Jazz Releases".

El Viaje also swept top honors in Latin Jazz Corner's "Best Of The Year Awards," with the unusual distinction of winning in the two major categories: 2009 Latin Jazz Album Of The Year, and 2009 Latin Jazz Large Ensemble Album Of The Year.  It also won for 2009 Latin Jazz Composition, with Giraudo's “El Bajonazo.”  And recognizing some of the band's outstanding individual performances, Jonathan Powell was voted 2009 Latin Jazz Trumpet Player, and Ryan Keberle was voted 2009 Latin Jazz Trombone.

 In writing about "El Viaje," Chip Boaz called it "an emotionally charged masterpiece," observing that "Giraudo crafts a beautiful statement, building music that screams with passion, excitement, fear, joy, contemplation, serenity, and so much more in a deeply moving expression of humanity. Memorable melodies and rich harmonies anchor the foundation of Giraudo’s compositions, but there’s a deeper thoughtfulness that flows throughout the work."

Hank Shteamer in Time Out New York writes: " El Viaje showcases [Giraudo's] superb command of a large ensemble, as well as his broad emotional palette. Sometimes tender, sometimes brash and always arranged for maximum emotional punch."

For more information, please contact:

Ellen Azorin, Cantaloupe Media

ellenazorin@gmail.com • (212) 724-2400