In January 2026, I will record a new album in Paris with two legendary jazz musicians — Larry Grenadier (bass) and Jeff Ballard (drums).

This album, The Georgian Songbook Vol. 2, is the continuation of a long-term artistic journey that began with my trio featuring François Moutin and Raphaël Pannier, with whom I recorded FACE TO FACE – Georgian Songbook Vol. 1.

That first trio was not a studio-only project.

We toured extensively and performed this music in France, New York, Boston, and at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, building a strong audience and artistic foundation for The Georgian Songbook.

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Why a New Trio for Vol. 2

For Vol. 2, I am taking the project one step further by recording with Larry Grenadier and Jeff Ballard — two of the most influential musicians in contemporary jazz.

This new trio brings a different depth and perspective to the music, expanding the language of The Georgian Songbook while staying true to its roots. While I have toured extensively with François Moutin and Raphaël Pannier, this recording with Larry and Jeff represents a new chapter and an important artistic evolution of the project.

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Why This Moment Matters

The recording session will take place January 26–27, 2026 at Sextan Recording Studios in Paris.

This timing is critical. All three of us will be in Europe at the same time — a rare window that allows this session to happen. If we miss it, the opportunity to record this trio in this form may not return.

The first volume of The Georgian Songbook exceeded expectations:

• Four sold-out nights at Le Duc des Lombards in Paris

• A sold-out album release concert at Le Poisson Rouge in New York

We are now planning additional performances and a tour in spring 2026, and this recording will be the artistic foundation for that next phase.

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About the Music

Instead of recording American jazz standards, The Georgian Songbook focuses on reimagining Georgian film and theatre music by composers such as Giya Kancheli, Bidzina Kvernadze, Sulkhan Tsintsadze, Revaz Laghidze, and Djansug Kakhidze.

This is the music I grew up with — presented through the language of modern jazz and shared with a global audience.

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Where Your Support Goes

Studio recording and musician fees are already covered.

This campaign focuses on the final essential costs:

✈️ Artist Travel & Accommodation — $2,800

Flights, local transportation, and hotel accommodations for Larry Grenadier and Jeff Ballard during the Paris session.

Video Recording & Documentation — $3,000

Professional multi-camera video recording of the session, with editing for promotion, press, and social media.

PR, Radio, Media & Social Media Boosting — $6,500

International promotion with Don Lucoff & DL Media, including:

• Jazz radio promotion

• International press outreach

• Targeted social media advertising

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Total Goal: $12,300

Every contribution directly helps bring this music into the world.

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Why I’m Asking for Your Help

This project is about honoring Georgian music and allowing it to live beyond borders. With your support, this new trio recording will not only be completed, but properly shared with audiences worldwide.

If you believe in cultural exchange, artistic honesty, and music that tells a deeper story, I would be grateful for your support.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

Giorgi Mikadze

Pianist · Composer · Arranger

Berklee College of Music