Interview: A-Tempo Trio - When I'm Sad

A-Tempo Trio is an atmospheric virtuoso trio that recently released their first collaborative album, whose compositions - modern and original Israeli jazz - are written under the influence of the music of the world. The first joint album has just been released, although all members of the trio are well-known musicians who have long declared themselves on the Israeli and international jazz scenes, releasing various solo albums, performing both jazz standards and author's original music written by members of the trio - three talented musicians: bassist Alon Stern, pianist Itai Abramovich and drummer Yoav Lachovitsky.

By Kamil Bobin

Discovered via Musosoup

Hello A-Tempo Trio. What made you want to become a musician?

My first significant love for music came about as a young child, listening to the “peter and the Wolf” LP that my dad got in the house. I believe that this love, was the first spark that led me to get more immersed with music, and later on, my talent which has been discovered, drew an easy and natural path for me to follow.

Who helped you most in your musical journey?

My dad to begin with. My dad has also a great love for music, and has exposed me to a variety of different bands or composers. He has also supported me in my choice to become a musician, by getting me the recorder, later the piano, and eventually the drums, and pushing me forward with different music teachers.

Your latest release is 'When I'm Sad'. Can you share with us the background of its creation and did any unusual things happen during its creation?

I was living in Amsterdam at that time, and was doing my degree in the Conservatrium van Amsterdam. At a time of sadness and loneliness, I sat by a piano in a room at the Conservatory and effortlessly my ears have painted the tune, urging to express my deep strong feelings that I has at that moment. I think it took me like a short hour or two to finish this composition.

What social issues are you most passionate about?

I am Passionate about the human nature which I believe is fundamentally pure and altruistic. I believe that conflicts in our society, are caused by ones conflicts with him or herself. I believe that confusing inner appearances as something to war with rather than see their wisdom and purity, is a source for social conflicts. I’m also very passionate about the latests environmental progress in the last years, which is led by people such as Elon musk.

How do you stay up-to-date with the latest musical trends?

Usually I would let iTunes expose me to new Jazz releases that are related to my listening history. I’m not so interested in discovering new pop hits, or most of other styles of music as I once did.

Is there a hidden meaning in any of your music?

I thing that any music endless layers of interpretation, the are being subjectively form in each individual’s ears. Obviously, behind my compositions exist my own personal living universe, with all its richness, which is hidden behind the notes.

What’s an average day like for you?

To be honest, my average day in these times, is for the most part, a painful and challenging day, as I’m learning to live with a new circumstance where my daughter’s mom, has left the house and I’m urged to find ways, to maintain myself and maintain my older child as well, trying to manage my tight new schedule. I am hopeful thought, that life brings me what I need, so I could grow to be better human being, therefor I’m boldly excepting life’s challenges.

Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans.

I have a deep gratitude for having the honor to touch other people’s hearts, and would not spare my fans, with how I’m grateful for this privilege.

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

I would advise to be gentle with oneself, honoring ones feelings, seeing their prefect nature unfolding with every experience we’re having, and allowing that nature to lead us further. I also think that persistence is key, seeing the small steps that are being made on a daily basis, is a great source of encouragement and bliss.

What are your plans for the future?

I want to raise my beloved daughter to be as happy as possible, would love to continue performing in different corners of the world, share my music, and hopefully along maintaining inspiration I would love to continue creating new music. On a personal level would be great find my soul mate, and solidify my material comforts.