Gianni Bardaro

Gianni Bardaro is considered one of the major Italian saxophonists on the contemporary jazz scene. Several prominent jazz reviewers, gave a clear picture of the artistic essence of Gianni Bardaro: Sound and Innovation, rooted into Tradition. Creative and original composer, as well as a unique haunting tone saxophonist, Gianni is also indefatigable, sharing his knowledge about the healing property of sound giving concerts, conferences and workshops in many different countries with his project “Intentional Sounds”.

Throughout just a few years, international critics and audience have appreciated his extensive work. Having published 6 albums as leader with national and international artists, he’s very much appreciated abroad. His latest  work has been signed up by legendary American jazz label VERVE Records and his latest 3 albums, published by Universal Music Group. He’s leader in several projects and collaborates permanently with prestigious artists.

He’s been playing in the most popular jazz clubs and festivals, working with great musicians such as: Randy Brecker, Bob Mover, Lamy Estrefy, Samuel Torres, Jason Lindner, Kike Purizaga, Jesper Bodilsen, Bruno Tommaso, Maria Pia De Vito, Pietro Condorelli, Deniss Pashkevich, Pippo Matino, Adama Bilorou Dembele, Marzouk Mejiri, Marwan Fakir, Alberto Capelli, Aldo Bassi, Agostino Di Giorgio, David Boato, Pierluigi Villani, Francesco Villani, Salvatore Tranchini, Pino Iodice, Pietro Iodice, Orient West Choir, Balticness Project, Riga Groove Electro, Massimo Morganti, Cristiano Arcelli, Neff Irizarry, Villu Veski, Sofia Rubina, Jukka Eskola, Sebastian Studnitzky, Seth Sharp, Liudas Mockunas, Erling Wicklund, Jan Freicher, David Goloshekin,Karl- Martin Almqvist and many others.

Gianni has performed in Denmark, Sweeden, Bulgaria, Italy, Romania, Poland, Colombia, Panama, Santo Domingo, Spain, India, Sweden, Portugal, Switzerland, Latvia and United States.

Among his international awards:

• First prize at “Baronissi” national jazz contest, 1999

• Second prize at “Baronissi” national jazz contest, 2000

• Artist Grant from GAI: “Association for Young Italian Artists”, 2001

• CD Grant from KODA ( Denmark), 2007

• CD Grant from DJBFA ( Denmark), 2008

• CD Grant from DJBFA ( Denmark), 2011

• CD Grant from DJBFA ( Denmark), 2013

• Tour Grant from BIBLIORED ( Colombia), 2014

Discography as leader

• Gianni Bardaro, Pierluigi Villani “Next Stop” 0602547772763. Verve / Universal Music Group. IT- 2016

• Gianni Bardaro, Pierluigi Villani “Unfolding Routes” 602537371587 Emarcy / Universal Music Group. DK, IT- 2013

• Gianni Bardaro – “Soul Blueprint” 0602527911564 Emarcy / Universal Music New York, USA – 2012

• Finisduo “Phil Woods Sonata” W700.2 Philology Jazz Records Rome, IT – 2011

• Gianni Bardaro “Soundworker Evolution Vol.1” 5706274004847 Soul Blueprint Creations

• Finisduo “Phil Woods Sonata” BPCD01 Gateway Music, DK – 2010

• GB Sinestetic Jazz “Overflow” GBCD01 Gateway Music. DK – 2008

• “Scandinavian Tango” EP 32bit Records Spunk Music London, UK

• Gianni Bardaro “Song For Dicembre” DRV1 Philips Expanium/Vitaminic London, UK

“Alto sax legends like Cannonball Adderley, Jackie McLean, Sonny Simmons and many others will forever be remembered and recognized for their distinguished delivery – and Bardaro is not one to rest on his laurels either, demonstrating jazz veteran-like creativity while utilizing a sweet yet searing tone on alto, his horn of choice”. by Laurence Donohue-Greene, Managing Editor The New York City Jazz Records

“A major altoist who is an equally talented composer, one with his own fresh and innovative approach”. Scott Yanow, author of ten books including The Jazz Singers,​ Bebop, Jazz On Film and Jazz On Record 1917-76

“Bardaro is a highly gifted alto saxophonist. He possesses both a beautifully haunting, poetic voice as well as fine technical chops,…his resonant sound intrigues rather than repels. His improvisational style speaks of statement and logical embellishment. Ideas are examined and expanded with superb rhythmic and melodic air.” All•About•Jazz by Nicholas F. Mondello