SG Big Band pianist Oleg Starikov shares his memories of Koktebel Jazz Party 2016 and talks about plans for this year.
— This year, you will perform at the jazz festival in Koktebel again. What has changed for you in the past year?
— Indeed, the past year has been quite remarkable because I finally released my first original music program and I think this fall I will finish the records and release my first album.
Also this year, the 15th Koktebel Jazz Party opens with a performance by Sergei Golovnya's orchestra. As a pianist on this project, I will offer my big band arrangement of I'm Crazy by American composer and singer Willie Nelson. This is also a big musical debut for me.
— What are your personal expectations of the upcoming festival?
— I am glad that Koktebel Jazz Party represents Russia at the international jazz scene and opens opportunities to communicate with the world's best jazz musicians who come to perform in Crimea again and again. This is a grand event for both musicians and jazz enthusiasts.
— What would you tell the guests at the Koktebel Jazz Party 2017?
— Make sure to climb Kara Dag, visit the Golden Gate and come to the festival in the evening. Welcome!