Pianist Jean-Claude ORFALI takes audiences on a captivating musical journey in his performance, blending jazzy and semi-classical arrangements of standards, alongside French and international music. From the works of Piaf and Sinatra to Michel Legrand and his original compositions, ORFALI’s improvisations highlight the emotional depth and spiritual beauty of these timeless melodies.
This concert serves as a delightful “dessert” to the Cabaret Connexion festival, featuring ORFALI direct from the Cabaret Lapin Agile in Paris, along with special guest vocalists Christine Steyer, Claudia Hommel, and Angélique Dessaint. Together, they present new interpretations and variations of beloved French love songs.
Jean-Claude ORFALI is not only a pianist but also a composer and music director, hailing from a family steeped in musical tradition. His father, Elie ORFALI, a pianist and composer, ignited his passion for music at an early age. ORFALI honed his skills through private lessons with Giuseppe Pulli and received classical training from Herta Pappo and the Royal Schools of London. He also studied composition, singing, jazz piano, and orchestral conducting.
Launching his career in 1984, ORFALI initially performed with a variety group before establishing himself as a solo artist. He gained valuable experience performing on numerous cruises, connecting with an international audience. In Paris, he has graced prestigious venues like the George V, Bristol, Plaza-Athénée, Crillon, and Meurice, while regularly appearing at the historic cabaret Lapin Agile. He also serves as a pianist and instructor for the Chicago Paris Cabaret Connexion and participates in various international events.
Since 1997, ORFALI has been the pianist for the Parisian jazz Big Band “BB15,” taking over as its director in 2009. With the band, he has performed at renowned locations such as UNESCO, Luxembourg Gardens, Champ de Mars, and Parc Floral. Additionally, he plays in smaller jazz groups and accompanies singers of jazz and French music.
In the realm of film, ORFALI has composed and performed music, collaborating with American, Canadian, and Middle Eastern artists. He is currently working with soprano Christine Steyer on a collection of cabaret songs.
His illustrious career includes accompanying Mexican diva Maria Felix and performing for an array of international stars, such as Celine Dion, Lionel Richie, Paul McCartney, Mariah Carey, Quincy Jones, Morgan Freeman, Mel Gibson, Isabelle Adjani, Jean-Michel Jarre, Line Renaud, and Johnny Hallyday, among many others.
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