New York-based trumpeter and composer Itamar Borochov connects the jazz tradition with the musical heritage of the Middle East and North Africa. He combines jazz with maqam, the modal language of the region, playing a custom-built Monette four-valve trumpet that allows him to play quarter tones. In his compositions, this creates a link with the modal jazz of Miles Davis and John Coltrane. Borochov was a founding member, arranger and co-producer of Yemen Blues, and won the European L1 Rising Stars Jazz Award in 2020.

He now returns to our stage with his longtime quartet: Rob Clearfield (piano), Luca Fattorini (bass) and Amir Bar Akiva (drums). Together they recorded Imanu (RealBird Records, 2026), his fifth album as a leader and the follow-up to Arba (Greenleaf Music, 2023). The largely instrumental album moves between intimate melodies and powerful improvisation, with moments of deep spiritual intensity. For Borochov, music is a force for connection and healing.

‘This synergetic quest is accomplished with great integrity, demonstrating in-depth knowledge only possible from one who has experienced these traditions firsthand’ (Jazz Magazine).

Itamar Borochov trumpet, Rob Clearfield piano, Luca Fattorini bass, Amir Bar Akiva drums