Babylon

We know that from at least as early as the Baroque era, improvisation was one of the required fondamental disciplines of musical education. Up to the end of the XIX century it was a common practice for virtuoso players to take an existing piece or theme by another composer, and improvise completely new pieces of music showcasing their individual capacities for invention, imagination, and instrumental mastery.

These historical facts are both an inspiration and an extremely valuable indicator to the nature of “classical music” in all its’ dynamic, human and creative essence.

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Yakir Arbib — Babylon

Babylon is a solo piano album by Yakir Arbib, presenting his unique approach to classical improvisation. It offers a personal journey through well-known works of the piano repertoire, reimagined with spontaneity and fresh creative insight.

Release Details

Released June 18, 2018 as a digital album.

Personnel

• Piano: Yakir Arbib

Sound & Style

Conceived as a response to isolation and introspection, Babylon blurs the boundaries between composition and improvisation. Arbib transforms the classical canon into living material, reshaping themes and harmonies in real time. His playing combines technical refinement with freedom of invention, evoking colors, atmospheres, and unexpected contrasts.

Why It Matters

With Babylon, Arbib establishes himself not only as a jazz pianist but also as a boundary-breaking interpreter of classical tradition. The album highlights his ability to reinvent iconic repertoire with originality, bridging genres while offering listeners a deeply personal and transgressive musical vision.

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