Dmitrij Golovanov - piano; Juozas Kuraitis - saxes.

1+1=1. This strange mathematic equation encodes the sum of two distinctive jazz personalities – Juozas Kuraitis and Dmitrij Golovanov.

Recently frequenting Lithuanian jazz scene, saxophonist Juozas Kuraitis studied at the Klaipėda E. Balsys Gymnasium of Arts, S. Šimkus Conservatoire, the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre (under P. Vyšniauskas), and Sibelius Academy in Stockholm (under Manuel Dunkel). Currently, he pursues Master Degree at the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre (under L. Mockūnas). Juozas Kuraitis has debuted on jazz scene as a member of student ensemble. He was a winner of six competitions.

Flexible saxophonist performs not only jazz, but also academic, Latin and pop music. As a soloist he has appeared with the Klaipėda Chamber Orchestra and Klaipėda Chamber Orchestra Quartet; his saxophone was heard in In Culto and saxophone quartet Sax Fix; he collaborates with DJs. In various formations he has appeared in the Great Fest of Musicians, Gaida festival, all jazz festivals in Lithuania, other events.

It seems, that duo is Juozas Kuratis’ favourite genre. At the last year’s Vilnius Jazz young Power his collaboration with Tomas Razmus For Free conquered audience and claimed Grand Prix. This year Juozas Kuraitis again chose to appear in a duo – with pianist Dmitrij Golovanov, who will also present his solo programme at the competition.

A. Einstein once said: “I don’t know what arms will be used in the Third World War, but in the Fourth they will fight with sticks and stones”, the witty musicians named their composition.

© Jūratė Kučinskaitė