A touch of class, a dash of sophistication, and a pinch of swing define the unique nature of Jazz Classique. Based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the ensemble was originally organized to present a special concert at the 2017 Salem Bach Festival. The enthusiastic audience response provided the catalyst for the group to stay together. Inspired by the Modern Jazz Quartet of the 1960s, the group has carved its own path blending classical music with jazz improvisation. Performing historical repertoire of works by well-known composers (e.g. Bach, Handel, Vivaldi, Corelli, Chopin, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert) and others, Jazz Classique fuses 18th century textures and techniques with elements of blues and jazz. Concerts frequently include historical comment.
What Others Say:
Our members loved it and they can’t wait for you all to come back next month.
– Jennifer Johnson, Social Director, RidgeCrest Senior Living Community, Mt. Airy, NC. November 8, 2021
I never was one to like classical music, however when I heard Jazz Classique for the first time, it totally changed my mind! I loved them! They were wonderful!
– Hillary McGee, Activities Director, Brookridge Retirement Community, Winston-Salem, October 8, 2021
What an impressive performance this was!
– Maggie Pate, Editor in Chief, Classical Voice of North Carolina, August 20, 2021
The occasional smiles appearing on the musicians’ faces attested to the fun they were having as they dove into the swing rhythm of the improv…“The unison/octave riffs of bass, vibraphone, and piano were impressively performed…the third movement . . .brought the successful evening to a close with great spirit and energy . . . this concert was planned last year, for Beethoven’s 250th birthday celebration. It was a performance worth waiting for, on the composer’s 251st anniversary.
– Timothy H.Lindeman, Classical Voice of North Carolina, Music of Classical Masters in Full Swing with Jazz Classique. August 18, 2021
* To read full article on the “Music of Classical Masters in Full Swing with Jazz Classique” click here
Jazz Classique is a refreshing addition to the North Carolina arts scene. The ensemble’s vast repertoire ranges from Bach, Brubeck, Classical, and Christmas favorites. John Mochnick’s commentary from the stage enhances the programs by demonstrating the connections between classical music and the jazz idiom.
When we have presented Jazz Classique at our festivals, the audiences always leave with a smile on their faces and rave reviews.We plan to bring them back very soon.
– Joe Mount, Artistic Director of Music Carolina, 1/7/20
Jazz Classique came to the public library to give two concerts 6/29/19 & 12/14/19. It was really easy to communicate with the musicians to set up the events. Both times it was a real treat! Everyone enjoyed the music. They are truly professional and give great entertainment.
– Natalia Tuchina, Head, Forsyth County Public Library (Walkertown Branch), 1/4/2020
It was a pleasure hosting JAZZ CLASSIQUE this past Friday evening September 14, 2018! The audience thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it, and I’ve received excellent feedback.
– Matthew Brown, Recitalist and Minister of Music, First United Methodist Church. Salisbury, NC
John, it was a great success, thank you. I try to keep things novel, by not having people too frequently BUT you are on my “return” list!!
– Leslie Sanders, Activities Director, Pennybyrn Retirement Community, High Point, NC, 1/27/19
What a great concert!!!! Just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed the concert this afternoon. You[r] knowledge of music is out of this world but you talk to people in such a relaxed and informative way. Lots of aspects I did not know and even though I have taught that Chopin prelude several times, had no idea how it came about and also how the other pieces followed. Your playing was exquisite and we are so lucky to have you in our community. [I] have lots of respect for you [and] look forward to hear[ing] you all again in the future. . .
– Fred Pivetta, Concert Artist & Piano Instructor, 9/18/19
One musical highlight was hearing pianist John Mochnick break down the music he creates. . .during a free lunchtime performance at Bookmarks. I got goose-bumpy. . .thinking, “I’ve never heard of this guy, he lives here; and he’s blowing my mind. . .
– Lisa O’Donnell, Winston Salem Journal Cover Story: These Performances Were Our Favorite Things, 12/27/18
In its short existence, Jazz Classique has become known for taking listeners to unexpected places.
– Lisa O’Donnell, Winston-Salem Journal, 11/21/19
Jazz Classique offers an exciting and refreshing take on the marriage of musical genres. Our audience was spellbound!
– Leeanna Spellman, Development & Sales Associate, Steinway Piano Gallery Greensboro, NC, 2/4/20
General Audience Comments:
“Loved ‘Baroque & Beyond’. You make me feel lucky to live here.”
“I just spent the last hour in heaven.”
“I was blown away!”
“That might be the best concert I’ve ever heard in this town.”