KLAENG Festival 2026 | Tag #3

Boundaries blur and genres collide—the 17th edition of the international KLAENG Festival presents the “here and now” of contemporary music at Cologne’s Stadtgarten from November 20 to 22.

Day #3 Program
Nov. 22, 2026

Signe Emmeluth’s Amoeba

Signe Emmeluth’s Amoeba is one of the most exciting groups in contemporary Scandinavian jazz. With her quartet, the Danish-Norwegian saxophonist creates a fascinating sound that bridges composition and free improvisation—at times delicate and ethereal, at others bursting with explosive energy. After years of performing together, the band operates with almost telepathic precision: four musicians, one musical organism. Their latest album With Love combines bold soundscapes with great openness and emotional depth. Together with Christian Balvig, Karl Bjorå, and Ole Mofjell, Emmeluth creates jazz that is as bold as it is captivating, pushing boundaries and leaving a lasting impression.

Signe Emmeluth – Saxophones, Composition
Christian Balvig – Piano, Synth
Karl Bjorå – Guitar
Ole Mofjell – Drums

David Virelles Solo Piano

To conclude his 2026 KLAENG residency, David Virelles will perform a solo concert: one person, one grand piano, one continuous musical idea. The pianist views the piano as an ancient instrument—and approaches it accordingly. Rather than relying on pure virtuosity, he focuses on timbre, touch, and pedal work, using them to elicit overtones and resonances from the grand piano that evoke thumb pianos, harps, and drums. Traditional Cuban music, African keyboard idioms, and the improvisational openness of contemporary jazz intertwine to create a sonic universe that oscillates between composition and free improvisation.

David Virelles – Piano

Chris Potter Trio feat. Matt Brewer & Kendrick Scott

When Chris Potter takes the stage, jazz comes alive—uncompromisingly creative, virtuosic, and full of energy. As one of the most influential saxophonists of our time, this Grammy-nominated virtuoso captivates audiences with his unmistakable sound, boundless imagination, and a joy of playing that turns every concert into an unforgettable event. Whether as a bandleader or alongside icons such as Herbie Hancock, John Scofield, or Dave Holland—Potter has been setting the standard for years. For his new trio, he has brought together two of the most exciting voices in modern jazz: bassist Matt Brewer and drummer Kendrick Scott. Together, they unfold an electrifying musical dialogue full of sophistication, dynamism, and spontaneous improvisation. A world-class trio—and one of this year’s undisputed concert highlights.

Chris Potter - Saxophone
Matt Brewer - Bass
Kendrick Scott - Drums