Latvian Radio Big Band
Lars Møller, saxophone / Denmark
Ashwani Shankar, shehnai (traditional Indian wind instrument)
Zuheb Ahmed Khan, tabla (traditional Indian drums)

Danish saxophonist, composer, and conductor Lars Møller (b. 1966) is one of the leading figures in contemporary Scandinavian jazz. His music blends American, Indian, and Nordic musical influences, creating a distinctive and instantly recognisable sound. Møller has performed extensively throughout Europe, the United States, China, Australia, and elsewhere around the world, and has released numerous recordings, including the award-winning album Kaleidoscope (1998).

In this project, Lars Møller brings together jazz and Indian classical music in collaboration with two outstanding musicians of the younger generation – shehnai master Ashwani Shankar and tabla virtuoso Zuheb Ahmed Khan. The programme features original compositions in which rich rhythmic textures, improvisation, and the melodic traditions of Indian classical music intertwine.

An interest in Indian culture and music has played a significant role in Møller’s artistic work for more than three decades. During this time, he has studied Indian musical traditions in depth under the guidance of several renowned masters.

The concert programme explores the points of connection between the Scandinavian jazz tradition and Indian classical music, creating a vivid intercultural dialogue. The melodic richness and rhythmic diversity of Indian music merge with the expansive harmonies and atmospheric qualities characteristic of Scandinavian jazz, opening new musical perspectives for both performers and audiences alike.