»Everything around us, including our songs and stories, is subject to constant change,« says pianist Gerald Clayton. Musically, too, he is always seeking out new perspectives. His openness and keen sensitivity to different musical styles have brought him together with artists as diverse as Michael Bublé, Diana Krall, Dianne Reeves, John Scofield and Ambrose Akinmusire.
He also performs regularly alongside his mentor, the legendary saxophonist Charles Lloyd, with whom he has previously appeared at the Elbphilharmonie. From this musical mystic and pioneer of spiritual jazz, Clayton has absorbed a great deal of sensitivity and depth, which he now passes on to the next generation as a mentor himself, most recently in 2025 at the Elbphilharmonie Jazz Academy.
Gerald Clayton was practically born into music. His mother is a classical pianist, his father John Clayton a well-known jazz bassist and big-band arranger, and his uncle Jeff was a sought-after saxophonist. His own music, whether solo, with the Charles Lloyd Quartet or in a trio setting, leaves plenty of room for free improvisation. For him, true art lies in constant change. »Playing the piano is like surfing,« says the man from the coastal city of Los Angeles. »You set off and hope to catch a few waves.«
PERFORMERS
Gerald Clayton Trio jazz ensemble
Gerald Clayton piano
Joe Sanders bass
Justin Brown drums
