Hz of Gold / FRIM Fall 2026

Frank Gratkowski was born in Hamburg in 1963 and studied at the Cologne University of Music and Dance. He has extended his instrumental skills to include almost the entire spectrum of woodwind instruments, including flutes. He works intensively on tonal extensions and modifications of his instruments in solo projects and small formations using unorthodox playing techniques and microtonal concepts, some of which he has developed himself. As a bandleader and composer, he traverses the broad context of contemporary improvised music. There is no clear distinction between composition and improvisation in his work.

Under his own name, Frank Gratkowski has released around 50 CDs, as a sideman he has been involved in an unknown number of additional productions. In 2005 he received the prestigious SWR Jazz Prize.

Frank Gratkowski lives in Berlin. He has taught at conservatories in Arnhem, Hanover, Berlin and currently Cologne, and has extensive international experience as a university lecturer and workshop leader.

https://gratkowski.com

Devin Gray is a distinguished drummer, composer, bandleader and producer‬‭ known for his innovative contributions to contemporary jazz. Since relocating to New York City in‬‭ 2006, Gray has become a prominent figure in the jazz community, collaborating with esteemed‬‭ musicians such as David Liebman, Gary Thomas, Tony Malaby, and Kris Davis. He currently‬‭ divides his time between Brooklyn and Berlin, engaging with diverse musical scenes.‬‭

Gray’s discography as a leader showcases his versatility and commitment to pushing musical‬‭ boundaries. His debut album, “Dirigo Rataplan” (2012), featured notable artists Ellery Eskelin,‬ ‭Dave Ballou, and Michael Formanek, and was praised for its complex and intimate compositions.‬‭

Throughout his career, Gray has maintained a dynamic presence in the international jazz scene,‬ performing at venues and festivals worldwide including Jazzfest Berlin 2024. His collaborations span a wide range of artists,‬‭ including Sylvie Courvoisier, Tim Berne, Michael Formanek, Zoh Amba, and Micah Thomas, among‬‭ others. As a sideman, he has contributed to projects with Andrea Parkins, Satoko Fujii, Marc‬‭ Ducret, and Eve Risser, showcasing his adaptability and commitment to musical innovation.‬‭

Gray’s work is characterized by a relentless pursuit of quality and sincerity, as well as an exciting‬‭ energy that propels him toward diverse musical directions. His compositions are noted for their‬‭ complexity and engagement, often described as both brainy and intimate. As he continues to‬‭ evolve as an artist, Devin Gray remains a compelling force in modern jazz, sharing his unique‬‭ musical vision with audiences around the world.‬

http://devingraymusic.com