Leszek Zadlo

• Genres: Jazz
• Instrument: Director

Biography

One of the few Polish jazz musicians with an international reputation, Zadlo has recorded prolifically (playing on more than 80 records) and performed ad hoc with such American jazz musicians as Dexter Gordon, Rashied Ali, Joe Lovano, and Billy Hart, in addition to many top European players and groups. The clarinet was Zadlo's first instrument. After winning a scholarship at a competition in Vienna, he moved to Graz, Austria, in 1966 where he studied at the Hochschule für Musik. He played as a sideman and leader in Austria before moving to Munich in 1974. Zadlo played with the European Jazz Quintet from 1977-1982; he also recorded with Michael Naura and poet Peter Ruhmkorff in 1978 and 1987. In the '80s, Zadlo's profile rose as a consequence of tours with George Russell and Elvin Jones; he also recorded with guitarist Bireli Lagrene. Zadlo organized a band in his native Poland -- the Polski Jazz Ensemble -- in 1983 to play in support of the Solidarity trade union. He's taught music in Germany and also written for films and theater. ~ Chris Kelsey, All Music Guide