François Couturier

French jazz pianist and composer

François Couturier is a French jazz pianist and composer renowned for his lyrical and evocative style, which often draws on classical music influences and a deep sense of improvisation. Born on May 2, 1950, in Orleans, France, he has had a prolific career that spans several decades. Couturier has been involved in various projects and collaborations with other artists, but he is particularly noted for his work with the Tarkovsky Quartet, a group he founded that is inspired by the films of Russian director Andrei Tarkovsky. The quartet's music is characterized by its atmospheric and cinematic quality, blending jazz with elements of classical music and soundscapes that evoke the haunting beauty of Tarkovsky's films. In addition to his work with the quartet, Couturier has released several albums as a leader and has contributed to numerous recordings as a sideman. His artistry is marked by a contemplative approach to the piano and a commitment to creating music that transcends genre boundaries.