Artist Wiki

Till Brönner

Overview

Till Brönner is a renowned German jazz musician, celebrated for his exceptional trumpet skills and versatile artistry that blends traditional bebop with contemporary styles. Often compared to the iconic Chet Baker, Brönner has captivated audiences globally with his masterful performances and innovative compositions, earning accolades and a devoted following throughout his dynamic career.

Till Brönner

Till Brönner is a celebrated German jazz musician renowned for his trumpet mastery, vocal abilities, and versatile artistry. Born on May 6, 1971, in Viersen, West Germany, he has been recognized as Germany's leading jazz trumpeter and often likened to the "German Chet Baker."

Early Life and Education

Brönner was raised in Rome, where he began his classical trumpet education at the Jesuit boarding school Aloisiuskolleg in Bonn. He continued his music studies at the College of Music in Cologne, learning from eminent instructors like Prof. Malte Burba and the American jazz trumpeter Bobby Shew.

Career Highlights

  • In the early phase of his career, Brönner was part of the Peter Herbolzheimer Rhythm Combination & Brass from 1989 to 1991.
  • At just 20, he served as the solo trumpeter for the RIAS Big Band Berlin.
  • His debut album, "Generations of Jazz" (1993), was a critical success, featuring Ray Brown and Jeff Hamilton, and earning the German Records Criticism Award.
  • The album "Love" in 1998 marked his vocal debut.
  • "That Summer" (2004) soared to No. 16 on the German pop chart, highlighting his commercial success.
  • He has worked with notable international artists like Dave Brubeck, Tony Bennett, and James Moody.
  • Brönner's compositions include soundtracks for documentaries and films such as "Jazz Seen" and "Höllentour."
  • His contribution to Yello's album "Touch Yello" in 2009 further showcased his versatility.
  • Brönner served as a jury member and mentor on the TV show "X Factor" from 2010 to 2011.

Musical Style and Achievements

Brönner's music is a synthesis of traditional bebop, contemporary R&B, and hip-hop influences. His discography spans multiple genres such as:

  • Straight-ahead jazz
  • Bossa nova
  • Pop
  • Jazz fusion
  • Vocal jazz

His eleven albums on the Universal-Label 'Verve,' mostly recorded in Los Angeles, have achieved significant recognition, with many attaining gold status.

Recent Work

  • "The Good Life" (2016) on Sony Masterworks features standards and originals.
  • The 2018 duo album with Dieter Ilg, "Nightfall," earned a platinum record.
  • 2020's "On Vacation" was a collaboration with jazz legend Bob James.
  • In 2021, he released a Christmas album reflecting his ongoing creativity.

Other Pursuits

Beyond music, Brönner is passionate about photography, predominantly portrait work using a Leica M camera. His book "Faces of Talent" was published in 2014.

Teaching and Performances

Since 2009, Brönner has been a jazz trumpet professor at the College of Music Carl Maria von Weber in Dresden. He tours with various ensembles like:

  • A duo with Dieter Ilg
  • A septet
  • The Till Brönner Orchestra

Brönner graces prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall and the Blue Note Jazz Club, and is a fixture at notable jazz festivals globally.

Sources

Date added:
Fri Feb 14 2025 09:42:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)