Adam Birnbaum’s New Album “Preludes” Wins Praise
Professor of Jazz Studies acclaimed in recent interviews for fresh interpretation of Baroque classics.
Pianist Adam Birnbaum is a Steinway Artist and assistant professor of jazz studies in the Conservatory of Music. In a recent interview with Nate Chinen of WRTI 90.1, a jazz and classical radio and streaming station, Birnbaum describes the inspiration and process behind his new recording Preludes.
The album was released October 13, 2023 on Chelsea Music Festival Records, and also features Matt Clohesy on bass, and Keita Ogawa on percussion. In this remarkable recording Birnbaum reinterprets Bach from a jazz perspective, and improvises on the classic preludes in a way that goes far beyond merely playing Bach in a jazz style. Jazz and classical fans alike will appreciate the playful and intelligent way Birnbaum has developed the ideas of a Baroque master of improvisation in a new idiom.
The complete album Preludes is available online. Take a sneak peak at one of the preludes on YouTube. To learn more about Birnbaum’s music, read the full transcript of the interview and visit adambirnbaum.com where you can find a list of Birnbaum’s upcoming performances.
Learn more about jazz studies at Purchase College where you can study with Birnbaum and our many accomplished faculty.