On Friday, May 30, as part of the Jazz Waves program of Pula’s Summer Cultural Season, the renowned pianist Antonio Faraò will take the stage of the Small Roman Theatre alongside his closest collaborators.

With a career spanning over 35 years, Faraò is widely recognized as one of the most esteemed jazz pianists on the international scene. His style is truly unique, marked by flawless technical skill, unrestrained creativity, thrilling energy, and an extraordinary sense of rhythm.

Born in Rome in 1965, Faraò comes from a deeply musical family. His solo career has been distinguished from the outset, notably winning the Martial Solal International Prize in Paris in 1998. His undeniable artistic talents have led to numerous prestigious collaborations with some of the most prominent figures in global jazz, including Jack DeJohnette, Chris Potter, Daniel Humair, Gary Bartz, Lee Konitz, Steve Grossman, Billy Cobham, Mike Clark, Bireli Lagrène, Dennis Chambers, Claudio Fasoli, André Ceccarelli, Ivan Lins, Jeff “Tain” Watts, and many more.

In 2017, Faraò released the album Eklektik (Warner Music), which featured an extraordinary lineup of artists, including Snoop Dogg, Krayzie Bone, Marcus Miller, Bireli Lagrène, and Lenny White.

Since 2023, Faraò has been part of the project “McCoy Tyner Legends”, paying tribute to one of the greatest jazz pianists of all time. In this ensemble, he shares the stage with jazz luminaries such as Chico Freeman (tenor saxophone), Steve Turre (trombone), Avery Sharpe (double bass), and Ronnie Burrage (drums).

Yet it is in the trio format that Antonio Faraò truly shines. The piano–bass–drums setup, known for its interactivity and flexibility, allows him to display his virtuosity, deep musical sensitivity, and spontaneous creativity. Faraò is a true master of this expressive form.

His latest trio album, titled Tributes, was released in June 2024 under the Criss Cross Jazz label. Featuring John Patitucci on bass and Jeff Ballard on drums, the album is a homage to jazz legends who have inspired Faraò. The compositions highlight his technical brilliance, deep reverence for jazz tradition, and contemporary artistic voice.

The trio’s performances are regularly praised for their musical communication, emotional depth, and impeccable execution.

For his concert in Pula, Faraò will perform with his European trio, featuring Yuri Goloubev on double bass and Vladimir Kostadinović on drums.