A different sound

Click on the link below to listen to an interview with Nigel Kennedy.

With his "Orchestra of Life" tour through Germany, violinist Nigel Kennedy combines a classical chamber orchestra with a jazz band. The J.S. Bach pieces that are performed include instruments like the marimbaphone and percussion, but they are so subtle that it is hard to make them out.

The classical Bach music alternates with modern pieces by jazz legend Duke Ellington, where both the orchestra and the jazz band unite to form the unique sound of Kennedy's interpretations.

"My orchestra should learn to swing, and Master Ellington is just right for that," said Kennedy.

The violinist would like to play Ellington one day with a real big band, but, after all, there are not many big bands that can also play pieces by classical composers like Bach, Vivaldi or Telemann: "It's easier to let the string players swing than it is to teach a big band all the classical stuff," said Kennedy.

Nevertheless, instruments like the cello or the viola cannot always substitute the intense sound of brass instruments, which is why Kennedy's Ellington interpretations sometimes lack that extra kick in the faster sections, although the slower segments sound exquisite.

Kennedy the composer

On his tour, Kennedy also presents some of his own pieces. They originate from his new jazz CD entitled "Shhh." It is a tribute to tranquillity; Kennedy likes it when "music can breathe."

"Popular music is often inspired by the sounds of the street," said Kennedy. "But I need peace when I'm composing. You have to go into yourself - otherwise you don't come up with any original ideas, but only the ideas of others."

A rock star with charm

Kennedy tries to come across as a crazy star with a penchant for sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll. He is also not afraid to say what he thinks, but manages to do it with a lot of charm and wit, giving the impression that he's also a kind-hearted person.

All this gives Kennedy the image of someone incredibly successful and yet approachable - and someone who is always happy to surprise his fans.

Author: Jan Tengeler (ew)

Editor: Kate Bowen