Concert Novecento

Musical – 1930s Jazz

A classic of literature and musical theater comes to Jazz In Fort L’Ecluse Chez Voltaire.

One day in 1900, on an ocean liner traveling back and forth between Europe and the United States, after all the passengers have disembarked, the sailors discover a cardboard box on the piano in the ballroom. And inside the box, a newborn baby. A baby, born on the ship and abandoned. Since it’s the end of the year, they name him Novecento.

Many years later, Novecento—now a pianist—plays several times a day in the first-class lounge. His talent is dazzling, and his reputation spans the oceans. There’s no doubt about it: all he would have to do is step off the ship to conquer the world. But Novecento refuses. He’s afraid to set foot on land. That other world isn’t for him. Until one day, when he suddenly feels the urge to disembark. Why? To see the sea. Strange, isn’t it?

Because you’re never too old to dream and listen to beautiful stories, let yourself be swept away by the tale of Novecento, the pianist of the ocean, accompanied by 1930s jazz music.

Translation: Françoise Brun
Narration: Jean Chollet
Text: Alessandro Baricco
Music:
Brenno Boccadoro: piano
Gilbert Gubler: double bass
Beat Clerc: trumpet