Sélène Saint-Aimé Trio

Sélène Saint-Aimé, double bassist, singer and poet of Martinican and West African descent, brings her Afro Caribbean rhythms, contemporary jazz and modern classical influences to the stage showcasing her spellbinding vocal and instrumental talents.

Sélène developed her love of music while volunteering at the Festival Django Reinhardt in nearby Samois-Sur-Seine, an experience which compelled her to pursue a career in music. Studying with internationally acclaimed bassists such as Ron Carter and Lonnie Plaxico, as well as saxophonist and conceptualist Steve Coleman, has honed her considerable skills and provided her with the inspiration to carve out her unique creative path.

Her first album Mare Undarum was released to much critical acclaim in 2020, navigating between contemporary jazz, Afro-Caribbean rhythms and modern classical music. Her most recent album Potomitan was released in February 2022 and has cemented her status as one of the most imaginative and original artists around. Sélène’s star is undoubtedly on a rapid upward trajectory, confirmed when she received the prestigious Victoire du Jazz Award in the Rising Star category in 2021.

This will be a double first for Sélène, not only her first time in Ireland but also her first time performing with the Cuban-born, France-based tenor sax player Rafael Aguila, whose musical CV includes touring with the Grammy-winning Cuban band Irakere, founded by piano maestro Chucho Valdes. Martinican bèlè drum specialist Boris Reine-Adélaïde, with whom Saint-Aimé has performed, toured and recorded since they first met around two years ago, completes the trio. “We will explore many different ways of playing and improvising,” she says. “It’s going to be fun.”

Currently a 'composer in residence at Tropiques Atrium National Hall of Martinique, Sélène is also one of the 2022 Villa Albertine laureates in New Orleans, Louisiana. She built a non-profit organisation alongside Martinican percussionist Boris Reine-Adélaïde called Afropolis that aims to promote and develop the practice of traditional music from Martinique. This involves a curated performance space inviting everyone to participate, create, and experience new cultures.

Appearing at King’s Place in the upcoming EFG London Jazz Festival, Sélène Saint-Aimé is an exceptional artist who is enchanting audiences everywhere!