Martin and Emma in the jazz ring

The beautiful Grünewald Hall features a rarely used stage platform that rises from the centre of the floor, creating a space for musical encounters with the audience seated all around. A jazz ring, of sorts.

Martin Sjöstedt was heard by Konserthuset audiences this spring in A Grand Affair, where he led a large ensemble and vocalist Vivian Buczek in a tribute to Michel Legrand. This time, we hear him in a more intimate setting alongside Emma Smith. One of the most acclaimed voices on the British jazz scene today, she is the recipient of a Parliamentary Jazz Award and has been praised for her stylish vocal artistry. She has collaborated with artists including Michael Bublé, the Quincy Jones Orchestra and Postmodern Jukebox. With her critically acclaimed albums Meshuga Baby and Bitter Orange, she has firmly established herself as one of the most exciting jazz vocalists of our time.

Martin Sjöstedt is one of Sweden’s most sought-after jazz musicians, active both as a bassist and pianist, with a deeply rooted acoustic sound and a playing style in the tradition of Jimmy Blanton and Ray Brown. He has collaborated with international names such as Joe Lovano, Maria Schneider and Bob Mintzer, as well as regularly with Swedish musicians including Magnus Lindgren and Peter Asplund.