The convergence of two of Spain's greatest musical geniuses has resulted in an extraordinary project. The acclaimed jazz, flamenco, and genre-bending pianist Álex Conde, widely considered one of Spain's most international artists, has released a new album titled 'Music for Big Band'. This work is dedicated to the legacy of the unforgettable guitarist Paco de Lucía, who passed away a quarter-century ago, and reinterprets his music using the powerful and sophisticated language of a big band.
The album, anticipated to be a musical highlight, will be presented in concert on Saturday, July 4th, at the iconic Teatro Albéniz in Madrid. The project is led by Álex Conde, who serves as pianist, arranger, and musical director. It brings together an exceptional ensemble of jazz and flamenco musicians, combining a full big band formation with flamenco guitar, percussion, flute, trumpet, vocals, and handclaps.
This meeting of musical languages opens a new orchestral dimension for Paco de Lucía's work, expanding his rhythmic, melodic, and emotional universe without sacrificing the essence or intensity of flamenco. The album was recorded live on November 24th at the same Teatro Albéniz, capturing the energy, precision, and collective strength of the ensemble.
Álex Conde, born in Valencia, is recognized for his unique work at the intersection of flamenco and jazz. With a solid classical foundation and a deep understanding of jazz harmony, he has built an international profile as a flamenco-jazz pianist. His discography includes works such as 'Jazz and Claps', 'Barrio del Carmen', 'Descarga for Monk', and 'Descarga for Bud', where he engages in dialogue with the music of Thelonious Monk and Bud Powell.
In addition to his career as a performer, Conde is the founder of the Piano Flamenco Institute in New York, a platform dedicated to the international study and development of flamenco piano. Through his work as an artist, educator, and researcher, Álex Conde has established himself as a key figure in the evolution of flamenco-jazz piano.
