Romanian pianist, clarinettist, and composer Sorin Zlat is set to present Changing Times with his trio, featuring Mikele Montolli on double bass and Andy Trim on drums, at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA).

Built around original compositions, the project moves across cool jazz, post-bop, Latin, flamenco, funk and avant-garde influences. Alongside new works from Changing Times, the performance also includes compositions from Zlat’s 2020 album Endurance.

Rooted in improvisation and spontaneity, the concert reflects Zlat’s deeply personal approach to music-making, with compositions shaped by emotional and professional experiences that transformed his life over the past few years. Each piece unfolds as an individual narrative, drawing from moments of change, reflection and personal growth.

One of Romania’s leading jazz musicians of his generation, Sorin Zlat, became the first non-American pianist to win the Grand Prix at the Great American Jazz Piano Competition in Jacksonville, USA, in 2015. A classically trained musician who began his journey with the violin and clarinet, Zlat’s work today draws from jazz improvisation, Romanian folk traditions, Gypsy musical influences and cinematic composition. He has performed at internationally recognised venues and festivals, including Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, Birdland, Blue Note, Montreux Jazz Festival and London Jazz Festival.

Joining Zlat are Italian bassist Mikele Montolli and British drummer Andy Trim, both active figures in the contemporary European jazz circuit. Trained initially in classical music before moving into jazz, Montolli has performed across Europe, New York and Tokyo, and collaborated with artistes including members of the Sun Ra Arkestra, Julie Dexter and Don Menza. Trim, who entered the London jazz scene at a young age, has performed with musicians such as Charles McPherson and Nathan Davis, while also developing a contemporary rhythmic style shaped through studies and collaborations across London and New York.

In addition to the concert, the Sorin Zlat Trio will also conduct an interactive masterclass on June 14 at the Little Theatre. Led by Sorin Zlat alongside Mikele Montolli and Andy Trim, the session will explore ensemble playing, musical communication, improvisation and artistic identity through live demonstrations, discussion and collaborative exercises. Designed for musicians, students, educators, and jazz enthusiasts, the masterclass will offer participants insights into the dynamics of jazz performance and the evolving language of ensemble interaction.

Through Changing Times, the trio brings together distinct musical voices shaped by different traditions and experiences, united by improvisation, collaboration and the evolving language of jazz. Come and experience the ensemble’s first-ever Mumbai performance.

Changing Times - Experimental Theatre | June 13, 2026 | 6:00 pm

Masterclass - Little Theatre | June 14, 2026 | 11:00 am – 1:00 pm