Zurich Jazz Orchestra an der Internationale Jazzwoche Burghausen 2026, live recording

ARD alpha, Mediathek

Robben Ford has been blending jazz, blues, and rock music with a natural ease that few others have matched—and has been doing so for decades. The guitarist and singer has always had a broad musical horizon and has never shied away from exploring heavier musical styles. Like fellow guitarist Mike Stern, Ford was a member of trumpet legend Miles Davis’s band during the 1980s, making him the second Davis alumnus to appear at the 2026 International Jazz Week Burghausen.

The California-born musician was joined by a very special ensemble: at the Wackerhalle, Robben Ford performed as guest soloist with the Zurich Jazz Orchestra, conducted by Ed Partyka. Under his direction, the outstanding Swiss jazz orchestra brought to life sophisticated, inventive, and richly textured arrangements of Ford’s original compositions, along with a selection of well-known classics. Powerful yet refined, earthy yet virtuosic, the music provided a fitting finale to the 55th International Jazz Week. Robben Ford impressed both as a brilliant soloist and as an accomplished vocalist with a remarkably youthful voice—hard to believe he is 74 years old. A true highlight for big band enthusiasts, guitar fans, and everyone in between.