Matt Belzer

About the Artist

The Anansi Trio creates music for the mind, body, and spirit. They are a group of like-minded musicians drawing from a wide range of global traditions, including Jazz, Afro-Cuban, and Indian music. With Mark Merella on his hand percussion and drum set hybrid kit, Larry Melton on bass, and Matt Belzer on saxophones, they create a music that is unique and experimental yet remains accessible. Using a diverse rhythmic approach and a focus on improvisation, the Anansi Trio hopes to put their stamp on the American legacy known as Jazz.  

Artist's Statement

Our aim is to develop a personal language by drawing on various improvisational traditions while working to expand their boundaries. They explore the rhythmic traditions of Afro-Cuban, Indian and Middle Eastern music, and the harmonic and melodic language of Jazz. More recently, the applicants are incorporating the brevity and immediacy of Funk, with its roots in the African American church and West African religious ceremonies. They intend to combine these elements to create a unique musical style while retaining a deep sense of tradition and spirituality