Biography
Known for his unique fusion of musical styles and innovative arrangements, Amsterdam-based composer and pianist Avishai Darash blends North African traditional music, Western classical music, American jazz and Israeli folk into a distinctive sound of his own. His versatility and passion have led him to produce, collaborate and tour with international artists such as Mehdi Nassouli, Montse Cortes and Hatim Ammor.
From 2020 to 2023, Avishai led the acclaimed Marmoucha Orchestra to international success and recognition. During that time he produced nine albums and wrote for numerous interdisciplinary projects, leaving a lasting mark on the ensemble's legacy. All About Jazz called the orchestra's album Andalusian Love Song "Darash's best album to date." Before that, from 2017 to 2019, he was head pianist and head arranger of the Amsterdam Andalusian Orchestra. With the orchestra he played over 350 shows, toured internationally and led the project "ZIEL" in co-production with the ICK dance company.
Avishai has performed at leading venues and festivals worldwide, including the Bimhuis and Het Concertgebouw in the Netherlands, the International Ud Festival in Jerusalem, the Bozcaada Festival in Turkey and De Centrale in Belgium. His work has earned him awards such as the "All-around Jazz-Rome Ensemble" (2nd place), the Richard Lupien MIMC for Classical Improvisation (finalist, 2014) and the Leiden Jazz Award (Best Soloist). He received Sena production funding in 2021 and 2024.
Avishai is a signed artist with the audiophile label TRPTK. On TRPTK he has released acclaimed albums such as The Planned Child and The Unplanned Child, and more are on the way. Critics have embraced The Planned Child: one reviewer wrote, "I remain in awe of what Avishai has shared," and another praised how its immersive mix brings the listener closer to his feelings and experiences. All About Jazz described The Unplanned Child as "pure, vulnerable, unadulterated Darash." His new trio album Heart Bop, a play on hard bop, features Omer Govreen and Joe Blaxx. It has eight tracks and was recorded at Wisseloord Studios in Hilversum. He has also released three albums with the Italian boutique label AMA Records: Nomadic Treasures, Samskara and Quarantine Blues.