VIENNA Standard – this is the name of our program, which is by no means exclusively dedicated to the city of Vienna, but rather offers a fascinating insight into one of Europe's most exciting and vibrant jazz and improvised music scenes. On this evening, we aim to give special attention to the Austrian jazz landscape, presenting exclusively works by musicians whose creative base is in Austria.
For decades, it was common practice in the United States for musicians to perform the compositions of their colleagues. This tradition played a key role in the widespread recognition of many pieces, which later became known as "standards" in jazz history. With VIENNA Standard, we continue this tradition, bringing it into a contemporary context.
It goes without saying that it would be impossible to represent every musician active in this vibrant scene within the scope of this evening. Therefore, we focus on some of the most influential voices in the Austrian jazz world.
To expand our quartet, we are thrilled to have the outstanding trumpeter Lorenz Raab join us. The program will feature compositions by, among others: Beate Wiesinger, Lukas Kranzelbinder, Georg Vogel, Verena Zeiner, Jul Dillier, Katy Kochatova, Lylit, Vincent Pongracz, and many more. (Simon Raab)

Jazz music of a tremendously elegant quality, the kind that does not linger in the classical realm, but rather unfolds many interesting interconnections to other styles. PURPLE IS THE COLOR sets sail to special musical shores, to shores on which the dignified sound of jazz can develop its full radiance free of conventional constraints. The aim of Simon Raab (piano), Stepán Flagar (saxophone), Martin Kocián (bass) and Michal Wierzgon (drums) is to touch the audience with their music, release deep-rooted feelings and trigger emotions. Purple is the Color have been selected as NASOM “New Austrian Sound of Music” act 2020-21. (Michael Ternai, Mica Austria 2019)