"Wenn schon, denn schon!" Michael Wertmüller und 'The Hammond Avantcore Trio' Steamboat Switzerland

Michael Wertmüller’s collaboration with Steamboat Switzerland, consisting of Dominik Blum (Hammond organ), Marino Pliakas (electric bass) and Lucas Niggli (drums), is a constant in the composer’s work. The band combines jazz, rock, metal and improvisation with contemporary music and stands for powerful, energetic interpretations. Since the early 2000s, Wertmüller has written numerous pieces for the band, ranging from miniatures for improvisation festivals and works for performances in jazz and rock clubs to extensive musical theatre pieces for contemporary music festivals, theater and opera. Steamboat Switzerland often functions as a counterpoint or ›engine room‹ within classical music formations. The article examines the collaboration on the basis of works in dialogue with the band members and Wertmüller.