Pianist Yakov Okun is one of the leaders of modern Russian jazz. Five years ago he became the first Russian pianist and composer to release his album on the renowned American label Criss Cross. Okun has performed with virtually every international jazz star who has played in Russia, including Lew Tabackin, Johnny Griffin, James Spaulding, and Craig Handy. He holds workshops all over Russia and beyond, and has worked as a teacher since 2012.
Okun's participation in the Koktebel Jazz Party festival has already become a tradition, and each year he brings along fascinating international bands. This time Okun will perform with:
— Spain's most renowned saxophonist Perico Sambeat;
— the brilliant Italian trombonist Phil Abraham;
— the great French double bassist Mathias Allamane;
— Artistic Director and Big Band leader of the Tula Philharmonic Society Sergei Golovnya.
Russian jazz legend, trumpeter Viktor Guseinov, will also perform as a special guest.