Jazz music, often celebrated for its emotive depth and improvisational nature, is experiencing an invigorated revival in Kolkata, a city that harbors a deep-seated tradition in music and art. The iconic venue, Trincas, nestled on Park Street, serves as a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era while simultaneously ushering in a new wave of jazz enthusiasts.
Peering into the ‘Music@Trincas’ section on Trincas’ official website is akin to opening a time capsule, transporting you back to 1963. The aroma of culinary delights mingles with hypnotic jazz melodies, painting a vivid picture of Park Street’s busy and vibrant food hub. An unforgettable story brings this era to life: a young child named Little Willie Walters, perched on a stool at Magnolia, eagerly savoring his ice cream, while the music envelopes him in a warm embrace. Suddenly, a striking woman, reminiscent of a Hollywood star with her elegant fish-tailed dress, enters, capturing the attention of everyone, especially young Willie. The charismatic interplay between her and the captivated Willie, amidst the melting ice cream and stirring music, imprints an indelible memory—intertwining jazz and Trincas forever in his heart.
This moment of enchantment left a lasting impact on Willie, guiding him toward a future bright with musical promise. Willie Walters grew into a distinguished bassist within Calcutta’s vibrant jazz scene. Before his passing earlier this year, he was pivotal in reinvigorating the jazz scene at Trincas, setting the stage for a renaissance with The Willie Walters Quartet. This ensemble, established in 2022, graced the venue with magical weekend performances, transforming Saturday and Sunday afternoons with soulful music.
Anand Puri, a third-generation restaurateur and current steward of Trincas since 2019, recalls the profound musical chemistry Willie inspired among musicians previously uninitiated in jazz. “Willie Walters had an extraordinary knack for molding musicians into a seamless ensemble, even if they hadn’t been part of a jazz band before,” Anand remarks.
Jazz at Trincas has adapted to contemporary tastes while honoring its rich past, ensuring cautious but imaginative interpretations of jazz standards, thus maintaining accessibility for a diverse audience. This openness and appeal have sparked a remarkable increase in attendance, with the event regularly doubling Trincas’ occupancy on otherwise quiet weekend afternoons.
Across India, jazz specials and live nights are becoming an integral part of many dining and entertainment venues.
. Jazz possesses a unique allure, perfect for creating a relaxed yet engaging atmosphere. During a recent visit to Kolkata, I noticed the budding scene at AMPM Kolkata, a promising entrant among the burgeoning cocktail bars. While the venue doesn’t formally host jazz nights, the music director, Paddy Pradyumna Manot, has given the establishment substantial credibility with an impressive array of music events. Mahima Awasthy, a marketing consultant and frequent visitor, emphasizes the genre’s broad appeal, which draws diverse audiences to enjoy the dynamic and intimate ambiance of a cocktail bar.
Remarkably, the spread of jazz culture extends to esteemed venues like The Piano Man Jazz Club, which opened its doors in 2015 and is dedicated to fostering a deeper appreciation for jazz. Founder Arjun Sagar Gupta believes in demystifying jazz for audiences unfamiliar with the genre. His approach at Trincas, for instance, emphasizes vocal tracks that render a light-hearted, more approachable jazz experience. However, undertaking such a mission is fraught with challenges, including the limited number of establishments wholly devoted to the genre, issues concerning fair compensation for artists, and the necessity for professional equipment and training.
In 2019, The Piano Man Jazz Club expanded to include a second branch in Gurugram, signaling the wider acceptance and growth of jazz in India. Jazz continues to flourish in unexpected locales like ZLB23, a Kyoto-themed speakeasy located within The Leela Palace Bengaluru, where an eclectic mix of jazz styles keeps the cultural flame alive.
Despite these advancements, maintaining a jazz club remains arduous. The larger spaces acquired for The Piano Man venue expansions are testament to the enduring commitment to preserve this cultural gem. Such venues seek to deliver authentic jazz experiences despite budget constraints hindering the viability to attract top-tier artists essential for nurturing and sustaining the genre’s legacy.
The passion driving the revival of jazz in Kolkata and across India reflects a broader appreciation for this timeless genre. The essence of jazz, its ability to adapt and resonate across generations, continues to enchant and attract both dedicated aficionados and curious newcomers alike. As this resurgence unfolds, jazz reiterates its impressive capability to bridge cultural divides and inspire lively gatherings worldwide.
