Tomasz Stańko Quintet

The Profile

Polish jazz trumpeter and bandleader Tomasz Stańko (1942–2018) led the Tomasz Stańko Quintet. He emerged in the 1960s, played on Krzysztof Komeda's Astigmatic, recorded the quintet album Music for K (1970), later recorded for ECM and collaborated with international musicians including Dave Holland.

Worked with Krzysztof Komeda and appears on the influential Astigmatic sessions; recorded Music For K (1970) with his quintet; later recorded for the German ECM label; collaborated with bassist Dave Holland on the 1976 album Balladyna; widely regarded as a pillar of European jazz.

The available review praises Music For K (1970) as a fresh, electrifying blend of Polish/European sensitivity and American post‑bop/free influences. Stańko's first quintet album is highlighted for energy, cohesion and technical skill. The record is recommended for fans of European avant‑garde jazz.