Tim Berne with Vijay Iyer and Steve Coleman

Vijay Iyer, a composer-pianist known for his genre-blending jazz, was praised by The New York Times as a visionary artist. Born in America, he won a MacArthur Fellowship, a Doris Duke Award, and received a Grammy nomination. Iyer collaborated with Linda May Han Oh, Tyshawn Sorey, Craig Taborn, and Wadada Leo Smith, creating acclaimed works like "Uneasy" and "Far From Over." His compositions have been commissioned by prominent ensembles and artists, and he teaches at Harvard University.

Syracuse-born saxophonist Tim Berne blends avant-garde jazz with R&B soul, known for complex compositions and free improvisation. He founded Screwgun label, led bands like Bloodcount and Snakeoil, and collaborated with Marc Ducret, Paul Motian, and Jim Black. His cult album Fulton Street Maul and eclectic ECM releases highlight a prolific, influential career.