Focusyear Band

The Focusyear project, uniquely in Europe, is brought together under the artistic direction of Austrian guitarist Wolfgang Muthspiel. Six male and two female jazz musicians, selected by a specialized jury from worldwide applications for the Focusyear at Jazzcampus, gather to dedicate an entire year intensively to music with a scholarship, collaborating with the Focusyear Band.
The chosen musicians showcase the professionalism of this music project through diverse harmonies, refined melodies, and layered soundscapes. The compositions are woven through virtuoso solos of individual instruments, culminating in the fusion of these elements into a colorful sonic landscape, immersing the audience in the world of modern jazz. As the inaugural project in this annual series, the Focusyear Band has created a comprehensive work at the highest level.
The band is regularly coached by luminaries such as Adrian Mears, Steve Swallow, Guillermo Klein, Kurt Rosenwinkel, Django Bates, Jeff Ballard, Larry Grenadier, Mark Turner, Gwilym Simcock, Theo Bleckmann, Joshua Redman, Dave Holland, Wolfgang Muthspiel, or Avishai Cohen. Throughout the year, the Focusyear Band develops multiple programs that are regularly performed and recorded in the studio. The project's results are presented internationally in clubs and through festival concerts.
For more information, visit www.focusyearbasel.com.