Tryptique Trio Unveils Chamber Jazz Debut on ZSAN Records

Tryptique, a dynamic jazz trio made up of celebrated musicians Fern Lindzon (piano), Colleen Allen (flute, saxophones), and George Koller (bass), will release their much-anticipated debut album on November 15, 2024, under ZSAN Records. Combining the fluidity of jazz improvisation with the precision of chamber music, Tryptique brings an innovative sound that spans centuries, embracing Baroque, bop, blues, and beyond, with a distinct nod to Canadian composers.

The trio’s name, Tryptique, is drawn from the art world’s concept of a triptych—a work composed of three parts that create something greater than the sum of their individual elements. This symbolic fusion reflects the trio’s cohesive, intuitive playing and shared musical vision. Each member contributes a unique voice to the group, but it is the profound, conversational interplay between these award-winning musicians that defines the essence of Tryptique.

The roots of Tryptique’s journey were laid during the pandemic, when Colleen, Fern, and George—longtime friends and collaborators—began meeting weekly to play music, socially distanced but deeply connected. These sessions led to the discovery of a diverse and eclectic repertoire, inspiring a sound that blurs the boundaries of genre while maintaining a core of mutual trust, beauty, and spontaneity.

“Our music is like a conversation that’s been going on for years,” says Colleen Allen. “The connection we share naturally translates into the music we make, and this album reflects the diversity of our musical landscape.”

The trio’s sound is one of playful exploration, embracing the full range of jazz’s history and blending it with the sensibility of chamber music. George Koller describes Tryptique as “chamber jazz with full use of space, allowing for free exploration while working within forms.” The trio is known for spotlighting Canadian composers in their performances, while drawing on a wide array of influences, from contemporary classical to third-stream jazz, sometimes even incorporating counterpoint and simultaneous interplay reminiscent of Dixieland.

For Fern Lindzon, Tryptique represents a journey of trust and discovery. “It’s about finishing each other’s phrases, about exploring sound, tonality, and form, and going on a journey together.”

Tryptique ‘Tryptique’ album artwork

Together, Tryptique has forged a sound that is intricate yet accessible, bold yet refined. Their debut album promises to deliver an immersive musical experience that will resonate with jazz aficionados and newcomers alike.

Tryptique will be available on all major streaming platforms and in physical format worldwide on November 15, 2024.

Tryptique Track Listing:

1. Wondering (Doug Wilde) 5:07
2. Canarios (Fern Lindzon) 4:02
3. Retrato em Branco e Preto (Antonio Carlos Jobim, Chico Buarque) 7:10
4. Satin Doll (Duke Ellington, Billy Strayhorn) 6:40
5. Eucalyptus (Steven MacKinnon) 6:21
6. Compassion Blues (George Koller) 5:47
7. Themes (Freddie Stone) 5:24
8. Do Look (Fern Lindzon) 6:20
9. Zeynebim (Karl Berger, trad. Turkish) 4:28
10. A Flower for Amadeus (Moe Koffman) 4:40
11. Après un Rêve (Gabriel Fauré) 6:41
12. News for Bob (George Koller) 4:43