We're delighted to welcome Beka to the Bristol International Jazz & Blues Festival as part of our exchange programme with Bristol's twin city Tbilisi in Georgia.

Born in 1996, Beka was playing a mix of Scott Joplin ragtime and pieces by Keith Jarrett by the tender age of five. At just ten years of age he had already undertaken extensive classical piano training and was performing in jazz clubs around Tbilisi.

In 2008 he played for Condoleeza Rice at a US Embassy sponsored concert who said that'Beka is one of the best jazz pianists I've heard anywhere.'

Ms Rice's support, along with that of other dignitaries, allowed Beka to perform at the prestigious Montreux Jazz festival in the Bosendorfer Solo Jazz Piano competition where he won first prize.

He was awarded a full scholarship to study at the world famous Julliard School in New York in 2009. During his studies he played the top jazz clubs and festivals in the US.

In March 2012, Beka recorded an album of piano duets with jazz legend Chick Corea.

Bristol International Jazz & Blues festival are proud to invite Beka and his trio to perform at the 2014 festival. In autumn 2014, the Tbilisi Jazz Festival will reciprocate by inviting Bristol's Andy Sheppard to their event.

Entry requirements: — Read more — Read less