Music for Black Pigeons 2024

From the creative minds of Jørgen Leth and Andreas Koefoed, Music for Black Pigeons is a compelling cinematic documentary that delves into the intricate lives and artistic processes of some of the globe’s most celebrated jazz musicians, including Jakob Bro, Bill Frisell, Lee Konitz, Paul Motian, and Midori Takada.

Spanning across North America, Europe, and Japan, the film chronicles a 14-year journey alongside Danish composer Jakob Bro, capturing his musical interactions with artists of varying generations and nationalities. The documentary reveals that Music for Black Pigeons draws inspiration not only from the diverse and unique approaches of these distinguished musicians but also from the incredible energy and bond formed through their collaborations.

Employing the traditional jazz practice of simply “letting the tape roll,” directors Leth and Koefoed create a space for intimate, improvisational magic to unfold between innovators of experimental music recorded in revered studios in New York, Copenhagen, and Lugano.

This film features electrifying live jams interspersed with insightful profiles of participants, such as acclaimed jazz saxophonist Mark Turner, the avant-garde rhythms of drummers Joey Baron and Andrew Cyrille, the innovative double bassist Thomas Morgan, and the wildly prolific founder of ECM Records, Manfred Eicher.

As Leth and Koefoed were fortunate to capture some of the final performances of various musicians who, sadly, passed away during filming, the documentary serves as a heartfelt tribute to these groundbreaking artists who have since departed. By documenting the intimate processes shared among its eclectic ensemble, Music for Black Pigeons solidifies a rich legacy for future generations of musicians and jazz enthusiasts alike.