www.balazselemergroup.hu

Balázs Elemér started to familiarize himself with drums at the age of six. For the year 1988 he had already completed the Jazz conservatory of Budapest. Among his tutors was the venerable Kovács Gyula, known in his home country as "Mr Drum". In his teens beside his piano studies he became a much sought drummer of the Hungarian jazz frontline accompanying the renowned Szakcsi Lakatos Béla, Babos Gyula and Lakatos Ablakos Dezső.

In 1987 together with the pianist Oláh Kálmán and the double bass player Ablakos Dezső formed the Trio Midnight which has carved its place in the international musical palette.

Balázs Elemér is an exceptionally active jazz musician who beside his trio having given concerts as well as recorded with several ensembles (Test, Joy, No-spa, Creative Art Ensemble, Off Course).

Above all he has contributed to more than fifty recordings: a circumstance testifying to his talent, professional skills and rare versatility. He is familiar with almost every trend in jazz, and often accompanies renowned and world-famous soloists such as Anette Lowman, Stepko Gutt, Zbigniew Namyslowski, Jukka Perko, Stephane Belmondo, Steve Houben, Lee Konitz, Art Farmer, Pat Metheny and Al Jarreau.

His solo career can be divided into two main periods: with the contribution of his trio, quintet three records has been released - 1995 Fly bird, 1997- My new way, 2001- Always that moment (Hungarian Jazz Album of the Year - based on the award of Gramophone magazine).

Meanwhile he established the Balázs Elemér Group in 2001. Three records has been released so far. The first track Around the World (2002) successfully conjures up the most different traits of folk and other musical cultures of the world and above all, we can hear the lyrical beauty of Dresch Mihály's flute solo and another boasts a performance by David Yengibarjan, the very talented Armenian accordion player.

The second track Our Worlds Beyond is enriched by the legendary saxophonist Charlie Mariano and Dés László. Their latest track Refracting sounds was released in 2004.

The Group's goal is to create a sound world unique to them. A defining element in their music is the contrast of female and male voices but also in complement with one another.

Their style is a unique blend of ethno-based world music and of their own compositions.
According to the critics the Group's music can be enjoyed at any time in any mood. Their entire world is an enchanting fly, a levitation achieved without drugs.

The band tours regularly in Hungary, and is always present at significant festivals. They have also gave several highly successful concerts in Berlin, Haag, London and in Vienna.

In 2005 he was honoured with Silver Cross of Merit of the Republic of Hungary.

Discography:
1995
Elemér Balázs Trio Fly bird
Pannon jazz

1997
Elemér Balázs Quintet My new way
TeArt

2000
Elemér Balázs Quintet Always that moment
BMC,

2002
Elemér Balázs Group Around the world
BMC,

2003
Elemér Balázs Group with Charlie Mariano Our worlds beyond
BMC,

2004
Elemér Balázs Group Refracting sounds
BMC CD 106

2005
Magyar Népdalok