Shai Maestro, a talented pianist and composer, recently sat down with jazz journalist Morgan Enos to discuss his latest album, ‘Solo: Miniatures & Tales,’ released under naïve records. Reflecting on his previous work with ECM Records, Maestro emphasized the importance of human connection in his music. Transitioning to naïve records, he found a platform that shared his passion for bringing music to a wider audience.
After years of collaborating in trios and quartets, Maestro’s solo project delves into a more personal and introspective space, showcasing his skills on the piano. In this candid interview, Maestro shared insights into his creative process, emphasizing the significance of simplicity and melody in his compositions. Drawing inspiration from jazz legends like Oscar Peterson and Keith Jarrett, Maestro highlighted the evolution of his musical style towards a more lyrical and authentic expression.
When asked about the concept behind ‘Miniatures & Tales,’ Maestro revealed that the album was a serendipitous creation, born out of impromptu recordings during live performances. The organic nature of the project allowed Maestro to explore short, concise pieces that captured the essence of his solo performances. Embracing spontaneity and avoiding overthinking, Maestro found freedom in letting the music flow naturally.
Reflecting on the recording process, Maestro shared that most tracks were captured in a single take, preserving the raw and authentic energy of his performances. He acknowledged the beauty of imperfections in music, likening them to moments of genuine expression that connect with listeners on a deeper level.
Discussing the current landscape of jazz music, Maestro expressed a desire for more authenticity and spontaneity in artistic expression. He critiqued the trend of overproduced and meticulously crafted albums, advocating for a more organic approach to recording and performance.
Maestro’s eclectic musical influences, ranging from flamenco to Cuban rhythms, have shaped his unique style and approach to composition. Drawing inspiration from the rhythmic intricacies of these genres, Maestro infuses his jazz repertoire with elements of harmonic anticipation and emotional depth.
Looking ahead, Maestro teased a forthcoming project that promises a blend of live performances and collaborative efforts, emphasizing the importance of capturing the essence of music in its purest form. As he continues to push boundaries and explore new musical horizons, Maestro remains dedicated to creating authentic and soulful music that resonates with audiences worldwide.
With his latest album garnering critical acclaim and showcasing his prowess as a solo pianist, Shai Maestro continues to captivate listeners with his evocative compositions and heartfelt performances. As he embarks on new creative endeavors, Maestro’s unwavering commitment to artistic integrity and emotional storytelling sets him apart as a true virtuoso in the world of jazz music.
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- In The Two Popes (2019) Sir Anthony Hopkins plays his own piano composition. The script called for a Mozart song, but he found it boring and asked to play Smetana’s “Lullaby.” When acquiring song rights after filming, they discovered Hopkins had pranked them—it was his own music.
- TIL As Beethoven’s deafness began to affect his ability to compose properly, he sawed the legs off of his piano and used the floor as a “sounding board.” He would lie on his wooden floor and hit different piano notes at various volumes to feel their vibrations to see if they fit into his composition
- My first piano composition