About
Chris Conz, a household name in today's international Boogie-Woogie world, was born on October 22nd 1985 in Uster/Switzerland, located in the canton of Zurich. Even as a child his love of playing the piano was evident. At the age of eleven Hamp Ruosch, his teacher and mentor, introduced him to the jazz music genre Boogie-Woogie.
At the age of fourteen Conz had his first public performance, winning a number of talent shows shortly after and already playing in Blues Jam Sessions. When he was sixteen he met Silvan Zingg, founder of the International Boogie-Woogie Festival in Lugano, Switzerland, at a concert. Zingg gave him the opportunity to perform as a surprise guest at his festival. That was the start of a great career.
With his unmatched passion for this unique genre Chris still represents authentic Boogie-Woogie and Blues from the 20s to the 50s today. He has shared a stage with many international Boogie-Woogie stars such as Axel Zwingenberger, Vince Weber, Frank Muschalle, Bob Seeley and many others. He has performed at concert halls all of the world - in the USA, in almost every European country and even all the way to the United Arab Emirates, Madagascar and of course at home in Switzerland.
In addition to his solo performances Chris Conz founded the Chris Conz Duo together with drummer Mario Von Holten. Chris was only sixteen at the time. Later joined by the bass player Arno Schulz they became the Chris Conz Trio. As part of "The Royal Rhythms" collaboration singer Moritz Schlanke supports the trio with his vocals. As needed there can be up to 5 musicians on stage.
"Making music together, experiencing the genre in new ways through different instruments and vocals, that's what makes it so special to produce the sound of Boogie-Woogie with a band. Collaborations with other musicians provide a pianist with opportunities to grow even in his role as a solo artist. And of course whenever several musicians find themselves on a stage together there is always a chance of an impromptu and unrehearsed live session. That is a special treat for the audience and the artists alike. This type of experience cannot be duplicated in a studio."
In order to further expand his musical horizon, Conz took the opportunity to join the band Terry & the Hot Sox once Boogie-Piano legend Dave Ruosch left the group in 2004. Together they also accompanied the American singer Wanda Jackson, who became world famous in the 60s with her hit "Let's Have A Party" or Bill Haley's Band in original line-up.
The tremendous talent, the never-ending passion for music and the love for his audience lead to countless awards. Besides the "Swiss Jazz Award 2013" Chris Conz and his trio also won the little Prix Walo, also know as the "Swiss Oscar" of the music industry, as the best Swiss newcomer band. As a solo artist Chris received the German Boogie-Woogie Award PINETOP as pianist of the year.
Since 2011 Chris Conz has organized the "International Boogie Nights by Chris Conz" in Uster and Thun. He serves as a source of ideas and inspiration to the music event, which typically features a star-studded lineup of Boogie-Woogie legends and attracts about 2000 visitors yearly. The project is expanding and in 2020 the International Boogie Nights are also coming to Chur and Vienna. We also have to thank Chris Conz for other festivals such as the "Swing the Spring" event, which was also founded by the pianist and entrepreneur.
Even his Social Media channels "International Boogie Nights by Chris Conz" are considered one of the largest genre platforms worldwide and they are full of spectacular Boogie-Woogie, Swing, Blues & Jazz Piano. Videos, special Boogie finds, sessions, info and news about world-famous Boogie-Woogie pianists, entertainers and musicians can be found here. "International Boogie Nights by Chris Conz" is looking to support young talents and give them the chance to get on stage. Chris Conz himself is mentoring particularly gifted piano players and gives them lessons at no charge.