Transcending Chopin Volume II & III
Transcending Chopin Volume II & III is our third and fourth album. This double album is a complete re-composition of piano sonata opus 58 and cello sonata opus 65 by the Polish Romantic composer and piano virtuoso Frédéric Chopin.
The StarkLinnemann trio and quartet 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 and quartet 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.
Personnel on record
Iman Spaargaren – tenor saxophone
Paul Stark – piano / recomposition
Vasilis Stefanopoulos – acoustic bass
Jonas Linnemann – drums
If you haven’t added Transcending Chopin Volume 1&2 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
The music of Chopin is beautifully translated to our times, making his classic pieces feel fresh and modern. You can enjoy the timeless beauty of Chopin with a contemporary twist. Johan Bakker - Nederlands Dagblad 2016
The music features solid postbop with well-timed improvisations. The composer's emotions and motivations are clearly present, adding depth and meaning to the pieces. Ken Vos -Jazzism 2017
For the cello sonata, tenor saxophonist Iman Spaargaren joins in. He successfully connects the music to John Coltrane's famous piece, Love Supreme. This creates a beautiful blend of styles. Bert Vuijsje - Jazz bulletin 2017
StarkLinnemann shows many mood swings in their performance but always stays phenomenal and convincing. Their music keeps you engaged with its dynamic shifts and impressive skill. Joachim “Joe” Brookes - Rocktimes 2016
Chopin's music brings more life and vibrancy to the listener's experience, like adding color to someone's cheeks. His compositions are full of emotion and energy, making them feel more alive. rakenDra Smit -Muziekwereld 2017
This is a respectful and successful translation of Chopin's music into modern jazz. It brings the beauty of classical music into a new, contemporary style. Hessel Fluitman - Jazzflits 2017
Fans of Chopin and contemporary Jazz will love this sequel to Transcending Chopin volume 1. It's a perfect blend of classical and modern music, offering a double treat for music lovers. Klaas Koopman - Pianowereld 2017
Imagine the unique sound of African rhythms mixed with the classical music of Chopin. It's an interesting combination that blends traditional African beats with the elegance of Chopin's compositions. Jochem le Cointre - Jazzenzo 2016
The quartet is incredibly unique, showing unmatched skills. They vary their music and improvise in exciting ways. It's really impressive and cool! Fred Schmale - Real Roots Café 2017