Pianist and composer Eddie Gripper joins forces with acclaimed tenor saxophonist Alex Merritt for a special one-off performance at 1000 Trades. This collaboration has been long in the making, with both musicians eager to explore their shared musical sensibilities. For the occasion, Eddie has composed an entirely new set of music written specifically for this quartet – his first time creating such bespoke material tailored to individual players. Known for his effortless creativity and distinctive voice on the saxophone, Alex Merritt brings a unique energy to the stage, complemented by the dynamic interplay of Patrick Barrett-Donlon (drums) and Clem Saynor (double bass). Audiences can expect an evening of fresh compositions, spontaneous interplay, and the kind of musical chemistry that only emerges when like-minded artists come together.

 

Oxford-born pianist Eddie Gripper moved to Cardiff in 2018 to study with Huw Warren, graduating with First Class Honours from Cardiff University. Described by Jazzwise as having “already garnered comparisons with the greats” following his debut album Home, he has quickly become a notable presence on the UK jazz scene, performing with leading musicians including Nigel Price, Simon Spillett, Pete Long, Alex Clarke, Yuri Golubev and Iain Ballamy. Beyond jazz, he has collaborated with Welsh folk artist Angharad Jenkins, blending folk, jazz and contemporary classical influences. In 2024, he completed a 29-date UK and Ireland tour, with performances at venues such as Crazy Coqs, Pizza Express and major festivals.