ABOUT

SongAh Chae Trio,

is a contemporary jazz ensemble centered on a highly attentive and reduced musical language, where space, timing, and interaction shape the core of its sound. Formed in 2023, the trio brings together SongAh Chae (piano), Manos Stratis (double bass), and Joshua Wheatley (drums), working primarily within the acoustic format of piano, upright bass, and drums, with occasional subtle use of organ.

Led by pianist SongAh Chae, the group emphasizes restraint and clarity over virtuosity or density, allowing small gestures, silence, and collective sensitivity to guide the music’s direction. Their approach draws inspiration from the European jazz tradition—particularly its spacious and introspective aesthetic—while maintaining a distinct and personal voice.

The trio’s music is built on conceptual, narrative-driven compositions that serve as flexible frameworks for improvisation, resulting in performances that feel both structured and open. Moving away from the traditional soloist-with-accompaniment model, the ensemble functions as a collective voice, where melody, rhythm, and texture evolve organically through deep listening and interaction.

Their sound shifts fluidly between spacious, reflective passages and more energetic, groove-driven moments, with each performance offering a unique interpretation of a shared musical idea.