ABOUT TRIO
The Charl du Plessis Trio hails from South Africa and comprises pianist Charl du Plessis, bassist Werner Spies and drummer Peter Auret. The trio was formed in 2006 with the aim to promote crossover and jazz music, fuelled by an undeniable musical chemistry and understanding of each other’s musical personalities. Their sound is captivating and exciting, and always strives to be fresh, original and moving. It is particularly the juxtaposition of classical and jazz music in their arrangements that led to international recognition as one of the leading crossover exponents of their time.
The trio’s annual schedule entails regular tours to Eastern Asia, Europe, and performances throughout Southern Africa. The trio has recorded nine albums and two DVDs and has an international recording contract with Swiss label Claves. These recordings have been awarded multiple awards, including four South African Music Awards (SAMAs), a Ghoema and Fiësta.
Charl du Plessis is a Steinway Artist, a Claves recording artist and the first person in history to play a grand piano on top of Table Mountain. He has performed in Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie, Berlin’s Philharmonie, London’s Royal Albert Hall and Shanghai’s Cultural Arts Centre. Charl holds a doctorate in piano performance, and he annually performs in more than 130 concerts on the international concert platform, with orchestras, in musical productions and as collaborative pianist for Nataniël.
Werner Spies is a versatile bass player, educator and entrepreneur. He holds a master’s degree in musicology and is a music lecturer at the Tshwane University of Technology. He is also a co-owner of Haloa Coffee – a successful chain of designer coffee shops in Pretoria.
Peter Auret ranks as one of South Africa’s most sought-after jazz drummers. He is highly regarded as a recording engineer and producer, and the proud owner of Sumo Sound Recording Studios in Johannesburg. He has also received three SAMAs for best recording engineer.
