Hans Koller: A Life in Music
Early Life
Hans Koller, born as Antonio Hans Cyrill Koller, was born on February 12, 1921, in Vienna, Austria. He grew up in a time of great cultural and political change, which would later influence his music.
Education and Military Service
Koller attended the University of Vienna from 1936 to 1939. His studies were interrupted by World War II, during which he served in the armed forces from 1940 to 1946.
Post-War Career
After the war, Koller returned to Vienna and began playing with the Hot Club of Vienna. In 1950, he emigrated to Germany and formed a small ensemble there. This was the beginning of a prolific career that would span several decades.
Collaborations and Contributions
Throughout the 1950s, Koller played with numerous notable musicians, including Freddie Brocksieper, Albert Mangelsdorff, Jutta Hipp, Dizzy Gillespie, Bill Russo, Lee Konitz, Stan Kenton, Eddie Sauter, Benny Goodman, Attila Zoller, Oscar Pettiford, Kenny Clarke, Wes Montgomery, Martial Solal, and Jimmy Pratt. His collaborations significantly contributed to the jazz scene of the time.
Leadership and Innovation
From 1958 to 1965, Koller directed the jazz workshops of the Norddeutscher Rundfunk in Hamburg. He returned to Vienna in 1970 and soon after formed his own ensemble, Free Sound. Later in the decade, he worked with the International Brass Company, showcasing his leadership and innovation in the field of jazz.
Composer and Painter
In addition to his playing and bandleading, Koller also composed; among his original works are a ballet entitled New York City, completed in 1968. Koller was also a recognized abstract painter, demonstrating his artistic versatility.
Legacy
Koller passed away on December 21, 2003, in Vienna.
- “New Sound From Germany” Vol.5 – This album, released in 1953, showcases Koller’s cool jazz style and his innovative approach to composition and arrangement.
- “Jazz for Moderns” – Released in 1955, this album is a testament to Koller’s bop influences and his ability to blend different jazz styles into a cohesive and engaging sound.
- “Hans Kollers New Jazz Stars” – This 1956 album highlights Koller’s leadership skills and his ability to bring out the best in his fellow musicians.
- “Koller Plays Kovac vol. 1 & 2” – These two albums, both released in 1956, showcase Koller’s interpretive skills and his deep understanding of jazz harmony and melody.
- “Exclusiv” – Released in 1963, this album is a testament to Koller’s unique sound and his ability to push the boundaries of jazz.
- “Vision” – This 1966 album showcases Koller’s forward-thinking approach to jazz and his ability to create music that is both challenging and accessible.
- “Relax With My Horns” – Also released in 1966, this album highlights Koller’s skill as a horn player and his ability to create a relaxed and inviting sound.
- “Phoenix” – This 1973 album showcases Koller’s ability to rise above challenges and continue to create innovative and engaging music.
- “Kunstkopfindianer” – Released in 1974, this album is a testament to Koller’s eclectic fusion style and his ability to blend different musical elements into a cohesive sound.
- “For Marcel Duchamp” – This 1977 album showcases Koller’s ability to draw inspiration from various sources, in this case, the work of artist Marcel Duchamp.
