LLORENÇ BARCELÓ Jazz organist, composer, and music producer (Mallorca)
Llorenç Barceló is a Mallorcan organist and composer, renowned for his mastery of the Hammond organ and his versatility across a wide range of musical genres, particularly jazz, blues, and African music. His career is marked by a deep connection to jazz tradition, blended with a constant drive to explore new sounds and collaborate across cultures.
Background and Training
Born in Manacor, Llorenç began his musical training at an early age, influenced by his local environment and family. He studied at the Taller de Músics in Barcelona, where he shared the classroom with artists such as Rosalía and Salvador Sobral. His early career took off in the local scene with bands such as Big Yuyu, the Glissando Big Band, and the Toni Vaquer Band. He has been recognized by festivals like Sa Pobla, where he was not only a standout student but also a teacher and valued colleague, as well as by the Jazz Voyeur Festival, which named him one of the top bluesmen on the island of Mallorca.
International Collaborations
Over the years, Llorenç has worked with numerous international artists. He was a member of the acclaimed Malian all-female group Les Amazones d’Afrique, touring extensively in Africa and promoting African music and culture. His collaborations include working with Jean Paul Bourelly, Miko Weaver (Prince), Salif Keita, Oumou Sangaré, and Rosalía, with whom he has had an artistic relationship for over a decade.
Recent Projects
In 2024, the Llorenç Barceló Trio performed at the FAMOL Festival in León, Spain, delivering a concert that fused classic organ jazz with contemporary influences. The trio—featuring Llorenç Barceló on Hammond organ, Tito Bonacera on guitar, and Jo Palmer on drums—paid tribute to organ legends like Jimmy Smith and Dr. Lonnie Smith.
Also in 2024, he was featured at the Vega Jazz Festival in Menorca, performing in the scenic Cala en Blanes Palmeral alongside other international and local acts.
Local Projects and Education
Back in Manacor, Llorenç is a co-founder of the ESCAT Cultural Association, an initiative that promotes jazz and classical music through regular concerts at its venue on Passeig del Ferrocarril. This project is dedicated to revitalizing the local music scene while providing a creative and educational space for musicians and audiences alike.
Musical Style and Legacy
Llorenç Barceló is celebrated for his ability to blend the classic sounds of 1950s–60s organ jazz with modern influences, resulting in a distinctive and dynamic style. His innovative approach and dedication to music have made a lasting impact on the Mallorcan jazz scene and continue to inspire new generations of musicians and listeners.