A Night of Jazz, Legacy, and the Unexpected at Unterfahrt
It has become a beautiful tradition for students of the Jazz Institute at the University of Music and Performing Arts Munich to hold their final concerts at the iconic jazz club Unterfahrt. This evening’s Master degree candidates were Christian Grässlin and Sebastian “Schoko” Köbl.
The evening opened with a stellar quartet: Christian Grässlin (trumpet & flugelhorn), Christopher Reinbold (piano & synthesizer), Timor Lampe (electric bass), and Jacob Eberl (drums). These exceptional musicians set the stage for something unforgettable.
Partway through the set, they introduced a vocalist whose performance of “Summertime” was absolutely magnetic. He wasn’t easily placed into any category—neither white nor Black—but what he brought to the stage transcended labels. Likely no older than 23, he had the poise of a seasoned performer and the elegance of a young Sinatra or Sammy Davis Jr. There was something in his voice, his expression, and his presence—an indefinable brilliance that lingered long after the applause faded.
Then came the second set, led by (WATCH VIDEO) Sebastian “Schoko” Kölbl — a 30-year-old trumpeter, composer, arranger, and conductor of both German and African heritage. For his final performance before receiving his Master’s degree, Schoko didn’t just conduct—he presented himself as a soloist, playing trumpet on every piece he wrote and arranged himself. What made the night even more powerful was that the orchestra he assembled included some of the most respected musicians in Munich. That kind of turnout speaks volumes about the esteem he commands in the local jazz scene.
Watching him command the stage with such humility, clarity, and purpose reminded me why I’ve devoted so many years to keeping ROUTES Magazine alive.
This wasn’t just a concert — it was a celebration of cultural legacy and artistic excellence. Schoko’s performance embodied what it means to honor our ancestors through craft, discipline, and vision.
Here in Germany, I’ve witnessed African-American and African heritage lifted up with a level of respect that often feels elusive in the United States. It’s a powerful contrast—and one worth reflecting on.
🎥 The full concert will soon be available on the Unterfahrt YouTube channel. Don’t miss it. You’ll feel a spark of pride in what’s happening beyond U.S. borders.
📸 With Sebastian “Schoko” Koelbl — a brilliant young conductor, composer, and trumpeter whose performance reminded me why we keep telling these stories.
(Stay tuned: When the video is released, I’ll update this post with the name of the extraordinary singer.)
- A Night of Jazz, Legacy, and the Unexpected at Unterfahrt - June 18, 2025
- Cultural Wrap-Up May 27, 2025 | Gladys Knight … - May 27, 2025
- Cultural Wrap-Up May 23, 2025 | Patti LaBelle … - May 23, 2025
Cool!
This article beautifully captures the magic of the Unterfahrt concert. The blend of musical talent and cultural celebration is truly inspiring, making me appreciate the global jazz scene and its rich heritage.
What a whirlwind of a night! Schoko K ö bl truly outdid himself, conducting and soloing like a maestro, even if he did seem a bit nervous about that final piece – just a touch of pre-Master’s jitters, perhaps? And the lineup? Talk about pulling out all the stops! Its like the Munich jazz scene said, Lets give our homegrown talent a standing ovation fit for royalty. As for the mystery singer – absolutely captivating! Who needed labels when you had that stage presence? Knew exactly how to make Summertime sing, didnt he? A true find! This concert is the kind of cultural feast that makes you proud, even if youre just watching from the digital bleachers. Cant wait for the video! 🎥🇩🇪 đếm ngược online