Just as Bavarian Folk Music is inexorably linked to Oktoberfest, Jazz is the cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s rich musical history.  Both musical styles draw on long traditions of immediate and deep connections to “the people.” 

OKTOBER-JAZZ brings both traditions into the culture-combining melting pot of the steel city.

For this exciting and unique project, Munich trumpeter, Franz Josef Himpsl, joins forces with Pittsburghers; legendary drummer, Roger Humphries, and 4 time GRAMMY winner Jay Ashby. 

Raised in the heart of the Bavarian Forest, Franz Josef Himpsl learned traditional ‘Volksmusik’ from the real masters.  While attending one of the world’s most renowned conservatories in Munich, Franz Josef developed a true love for Jazz.  His dream of effectively combining his Bavarian Folk Music (Hofmusik) with Jazz began too take shape through various projects in the 1990’s.

Over the course of his 30 year career, Franz Josef has also become an accomplished band-leader and a favorite musical director for many high ranking German officials, including the Ministerpräsident of Bavaria and the Bavarian Minister of Culture.

To date, Franz Josef and his group, Unterbiberger Hofmusik, have recorded several CD’s highlighting collaborations with international jazz artists, including “Made In U.S.A.,” which features Roger Humphries and Jay Ashby.  The group has performed at Jazz Festivals throughout Europe, Asia, and the U.S., including two appearances at the Seven Springs Jazz Festival. 

OKTOBER-JAZZ brings the music of these recordings to the hometown of many Jazz greats.  The well-established Bavarian folk-music/jazz collaboration is presented in cooperation with the Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild, home of a 22-year jazz concert series in jazz.