Frode Gjerstad

Frode Gjerstad is a pioneering figure in the world of free jazz and avant-garde music, hailing from the coastal city of Stavanger, Norway. Born in 1948, Gjerstad has spent over five decades honing his craft as a multi-reedist and composer, with the alto saxophone as his principal instrument. His discography is a testament to his collaborative spirit, featuring works with legendary musicians such as Paal Nilssen-Love, Peter Brötzmann, Evan Parker, and Derek Bailey, among many others. Gjerstad's music is characterized by its fierce improvisational energy and expressive depth, often exploring themes of freedom, equality, and social commentary. He has led numerous ensembles, including the Frode Gjerstad Trio and the Frode Gjerstad Quartet, and has been a steadfast advocate for improvisational music in Norway since the early 1970s. His extensive touring and festival appearances across Europe and North America have solidified his status as a leading voice in the global free jazz community.