Blending refined musical sensitivity with a unique group dynamic, the international quartet AZOLIA has been transforming poetry into sound for years—poetry that moves, unsettles, and offers hope. Following their powerful program based on the works of British poet Wilfred Owen, the ensemble now turns to a new literary voice: Rainer Maria Rilke.

To mark the 100th anniversary of Rilke’s death in 2026, AZOLIA presents a new program that delicately weaves selected Rilke poems into chamber-jazz compositions—subtle, airy, and deeply felt.

Belgian vocalist and composer Sophie Tassignon, German-American alto saxophonist, clarinetist, vocalist, and composer Susanne Folk, German bass clarinetist and soprano saxophonist Lothar Ohlmeier, and Swiss double bassist Andreas Waelti draw on a wealth of experience and a shared musical language that moves beyond familiar jazz conventions.

AZOLIA is known for its thoughtful arrangements, transparent textures, unmistakable sonic identity, and deep sensitivity to poetry. Without drums, but with ample space for refined musical interaction, the ensemble explores human longing, doubt, and possibility. In their interpretations, Rilke’s language becomes newly audible—fragile, luminous, and full of resonance.

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“a work of penetrating beauty” Geert Ryssen, Jazz & Mo’

“One of the two most interesting Jazz records of 2017 from the Berlin melting pot…” Andreas Felber, Radio Ö1

“…All pieces by this unusual lineup are good songs in every way! The new CD impresses by its well developed songwriting and a refreshingly transparent lightness in the arrangements. By leaving out drums and especially the piano as a binding harmonic instrument, every voice is treated equally within the group and therefore has much space to contribute meaning. The players use these opportunities for soloistic excursions, harmonic tension and sophisticated interactions in most highly inspired ways…” Stefan Pieper, Jazzthetik

“No useless convulsion or abstraction here; these pieces, both written and improvised, are delightful all along creating an extended and long lasting program of incredible originality.” Dragonjazz.com, Pierre Dulieu

“A quartet with a promising future.”  Hans-Joachim Maquet, Jazzpodium, 11/2015

“…Folk Tassignon (presents) a vast musical spectrum which shines through vocal elegance and instrumental brilliance.. Their interaction is magical…”
All my Music, Helmut Blecher

“…Folk Tassignon dedicate themselves to Jazz…, which they combine with Songwriting…, and in addition to that with chamber music. Throughout, “Dancing on the Rim” is pleasantly anachronistic and feisty. Because it truly is something new.”
Eurosaar

©Photos: Severin Koller, Kathleen Friedrich, David Beecroft, Katrin Andrzejewski, Gabriele Brusche (Forum Gestaltung, Magdeburg)