Transcending Chopin Volume I

Transcending Chopin Volume 1 is our second album. It grew out of Paul Stark’s uncompromising love for the music of the Polish Romantic composer and piano virtuoso Frédéric Chopin and Jonas Linnemann’s passion for contrasting ethnic rhythms.

StarkLinnemann treats the material of each piece in a very original way. On this album we are exploring the tension between improvisations inside long arranged forms within the trio format. This leads to interesting textures like the use of fixed polyrhythmic grooves, in contrast to free floating organic rhythms on top of fixed elements.
Though you’re listening to modern jazz, the essence of Chopin’s music is always being respected. Not just fragments are adapted, but the pieces are recomposed as a whole.

For the live performances we added another art form to complement the overall experience. Scriptwriter Jacquelien Wielaard has created an exciting monologue indirectly linked to Chopin by his relationship with French writer and first feminist George Sand. Inspired by Sand and Gustave Flaubert’s long and extensive correspondence Wielaard put together a well-balanced amalgamation of text on which the monologue is based. Check out the video here!
Our live performances seamlessly integrate various art forms, creating a cohesive experience that captivates and intellectually stimulates the audience.

Personnel on record
Paul Stark – piano
Jonas Linnemann – drums
Vasilis Stefanopoulos – acoustic bass

If you haven’t added Transcending Chopin Volume 1 to your collection, please visit our revamped webshop at ucm-records.com for StarkLinnemann’s entire catalog. Buying directly from us, especially after concerts or through the webshop, ensures fair payment and helps fund future albums. Some volumes are also available on Spotify and other platforms, but it takes about 2,500 Spotify plays to earn €10. Your direct purchase makes a significant difference. Thanks again for supporting our music! Jonas Linnemann & Paul Stark 2025

Press quotes

StarkLinnemann shows that classical music and jazz are closer than you think. Their performances blend both styles seamlessly, proving the genres aren't far apart.
Wijnand Honig -  Integral arts & culture editor-in-chief NTR 2016

Experience a unique concert dedicated to Frédéric Chopin. This event is unlike any other, offering a fresh take on Chopin's timeless music.
Evelien Holster - Programmer Energiehuis, Schouwburg de Kunstmin (Dordrecht) 2016

This performance of Chopin's music is incredibly engaging. The musicians bring the music to life, making it a captivating experience for the audience.
Jan Trompper - Former director and programmer CC Het Diekhuus (Middelharnis) 2016