Claus Raible

Claus Raible, a German-born musician, was first exposed to Jazz through radio programs and listening to the VOA Jazz Hour hosted at VOA by Willis Conover. He began to study trumpet at the age of 11 and the piano was his second and eventual main instrument three years later. Claus made his first professional performances as both a sideman and leader at the age of sixteen. Claus was still in his early twenties and continuing his academic musical studies. He had the honor of performing with some great musicians like Andy Bey, Mark Murphy, and Art Farmer. Claus Raible Sextet was formed in New York City by Brad Leali, Mike Karn and Shawn McGloin after he graduated from the Music University with an honor in 1992. He began to appear in jazz clubs around the city as a sideman, with musicians like Manny Duran and Jimmy Lovelace. He met and later took master classes with Dr. Barry Harris, a pianist who was a huge influence on his writing and arrangement. Claus moved back to Munich in 1998. He began to split his time between Europe and the USA, traveling extensively as both a sideman and with his own projects. Some of the greatest artists Claus has worked with are: Jimmy Cobb and Keith Copeland. Charles Davis, Herb Geller. Benny Golson. Alvin Queen, Ed Thigpen. Claus has performed numerous works for small groups and orchestras on commission. Claus has composed and performed featured arrangements for The Brad Leali Jazz Orch, Gospel Meets Jazz, Al Porcino Big Band, and Works for Orchestra and Choir for Black History Month. Claus currently leads his own Trio, Quartet, and Small Orchestra, which consists of ten members. Claus was awarded the Award of Distinction for Outstanding Performers by the Austrian Ministry of Cultural Affairs and Science (1992), and the Award for Outstanding performances by the Bavarian Ministry of Cultural Affairs and Science (2006). Claus has shared the stage with the following musicians: Andy Bey (Ira Coleman), Montez Coleman; Keith Copeland; Charles Davis, Jesse Davis and Isla Eckinger. From www.clausraible.com

Leave a Comment