Koln 75 (2025) Movie Script
Click
Projector started.
Piano sounds
Click
(Mann)
700 miles from Cologne,
wo Keith Jarrett
gave a concert in 1975,
The Sistine Chapel is located.
400 years
before Keith took the stage,
Michelangelo stood there
a scaffold and painted the ceiling.
Today everyone can
visit the chapel.
But imagine if you had
Michelangelo seen on the scaffolding.
This is something completely different,
not true?
This is not a movie
about "The Kln Concert".
It is not about the mural,
the ceiling or by Michelangelo.
It's about the scaffolding.
Jazz piano music
INSPIRED BY A
TRUE STORY
TOLD
BY VERA BRANDES HERSELF
(Be)
Why do I start here?
Muffled babble
Piano music swells.
(Vera, whispering)
Oh, he came.
Shit.
(Woman)
Vera, there you are!
(guests)
Happy Birthday, Vera!
50 and still
such a jazz bunny.
With a furry paw
already in the grave.
I brought cake.
- I need something to drink.
- I did too, come on.
(Choral singing)
#Happy Birthday, dear Vera.#
#Happy Birthday to you!#
Jubelrufe
Tired
(Woman)
Network!
No no no!
(Everyone) Speak!
- (Woman) Come on, come on!
Someone hits with cutlery
against a glass.
Excuse me. Good evening.
Um, Vera...
is, like you, um...
probably everyone knows
my daughter.
Spoons are
hit glasses.
When she was young,...
She had a lot of potential there.
Mind.
Good looks.
She could have become a judge.
Doctor. Or diplomat.
But now we are here.
She turned 50 years old.
A good moment,
to take stock. And...
I must say...
It is, without doubt, the greatest
Disappointment of my life.
Click
Lets start again!
Shrill whistle
Film rewinds.
In the music business
it is called "False Start",
if a recording
is stopped in the middle,
if someone messes up or
it doesn't feel right.
My personal favorite is
definitely that of The Cramps.
Intro: I Was a
Teenage Werewolf/ The Cramps
Intro stops.
(Conversation in the recording) "What
What are you doing?" - "Nothing..."
"No! We're recording a shitty album!
Fuck off or sit down!
Nobody stops the damn tape,
when The Cramps are in the studio."
Certainly very lovely people.
How to interrupt a recording,
says a lot about the musicians.
Dylan laughs at the failed
Try to get to "Highway 61" easily.
Intro: Highway 61
Revisited/ Bob Dylan
Laughter in the recording
Song stops.
(Dylan, laughing) "Okay,
Let's try again."
Stan Getz apologizes,
Fleetwood Mac are arguing.
Lee Hazlewood
you can hear spitting.
But Bird and Miles
just whistle.
Whistle
Let's try again.
Younger.
Live Jazz Music
One!
They're quite good.
For English people,
who play jazz, it works!
He owns a club
in London: "Ronnie Scott's".
I wonder,
what he calls his cock.
Ronnie Scotts Ronnie Scott?
By Ronnie Scott?
I'm Ronnie Scott and we make
a break before I melt away.
Jubelrufe
He's funny.
So funny
not now either.
I'll be right back.
- Vera, please don't.
Oh, sorry.
What kind of ice cream would you like?
A cold one?
(Woman) This is my ice cream!
- You're a sweetheart.
- (Man) What's that?
Babble of voices
and quiet jazz music
(Isa) How do you do that?
- Was?
Act like you own the store.
- I just pretend.
(One)
Anyway, it works.
Great. Now he's coming over.
Can I
lovely ladies what to spend?
I ask because at the bar
There is supposedly a senior discount.
Shall we?
Clear.
Quiet piano music
How old are you?
I remember when I was 25.
A very long time ago, wasn't it?
Do you like jazz?
- If he's good.
Who do you like?
Coltrane.
Was that it? The list begins
and ends with Coltrane?
Miles... Mingus, Gordon...
Sonny... Monk...
And my jazz?
Of...
need one
better drummer.
Ronnie laughs.
That hurts me now.
- Gut.
Are you like that with everyone?
Or just
with the good-looking ones?
You are an old man,
which takes place in an ice cream parlor.
How would you like
that I talk to you?
Friendly.
- What about grandparents?
I would let my grandchild
never to such a place.
And why?
- Well, too much sax.
With an A.
What were you thinking?
That was bad.
Ah, here we are.
My hotel.
Your hotel?
- Yes.
May I ask you something? - No,
if you can kiss me, right?
Are you booking
a tour for me?
A tour?
- Yes, in Germany.
Why should I?
I'll pay you.
10% of my fee.
Why me?
I've never done that before.
Because to you
definitely no one says no.
Good night, Vera Brandes.
keys rattling
Door is closed.
A tour?
Good night!
The door squeaks quietly.
The stairs creak quietly.
(Father)
You have school tomorrow.
I didn't notice
that it is so late.
- Where have you been?
Bei Isa.
I can smell the cigarettes. I
talk to you, young lady.
Like a whore. Come
home in the middle of the night.
Would you mind?
You were in that jazz club,
not true?
If you only have half of the
want to achieve what I have achieved,
you have to take another route
hit, young lady.
He is a dentist.
Open your mouth.
The drill whirs.
screams
Muffled screams
This must be Mr. Knigs
root canal.
What are you doing here?
Hello.
I book a tour
for Ronnie Scott.
"I'm booking a tour..."
I am 18,
can't find a job...
"I am planning fantasy concerts for pensioners,
whom I met yesterday."
(Mother)
Stop now!
Sit down.
Vera sighs in annoyance.
Muffled screams
The door creaks.
(Vera) The best thing about father's practice:
a private telephone connection.
What am I even trying to say?
Hello.
I am Vera Brandes, I...
I book a tour
for Ronnie Scott.
Yes, hello,
This is Vera Brandes,
I am currently booking a tour
for Ronnie Scott.
Will people come?
Of course they will.
Are you joking?
clears throat
Hello, this is Vera Brandes.
I book a tour
for the Ronnie Scott Trio.
"For whom?"
Ronnie Scott, the jazz musician.
Hello?
Hello, this is Vera Brandes.
Sorry for the late interruption.
I am currently booking a tour
for the Ronnie Scott Trio.
A year and a half earlier?
Oh, one second, someone's coming in.
I'll call back right away.
School bell
(Isa) What's wrong with you?
Nobody knows
that Ronnie Scott is famous.
Maybe I'll do
something wrong.
Or it is the practice.
She's so depressing.
If someone from England is in the record store
calls, the boss becomes friendlier.
Then I should call from England.
- You have to get there first.
Could i
beg a cigarette?
Who are you?
Oliver.
I just moved here.
Where did you move from?
- Hanover.
Hanover.
- Hanover.
Both whistle.
What do you do for fun?
We organize
Resistance against
oppressive
political systems.
Do you have any steady friends?
We don't believe
to steady friends.
(Man) Be!
Honks
(Vera) I have to!
Laugh
Who is that?
Her boyfriend.
This goes here
not to school.
No. He goes here
not to school.
Rhythmic music
(Be)
HI!
Pretend you're a club owner.
I'll call you.
And November is not possible, but then,
December 1st would be great.
So you will only
work for that guy?
I will
Concert promoter.
He wants to sleep with you,
you know that.
Shall we try it?
Gut.
Hello.
- You know what?
We do it in English.
All right. Hello?
Hi. I'm booking a tour
for Ronnie Scott.
Who is Ronnie Scott?
- The jazz musician.
Oh, how terrible,
I hate his music.
Please never call again.
Thanks, bye.
Happy music
Manager.
I am the concert...
Boss... Organizer...
Booker... the concert...
Knock
(Brother) Vera, hello!
- I promote.
(Brother) You are there
been in there for 30 minutes.
(Be)
Promoter.
I am the concert promoter
by Ronnie Scott.
You seriously ask whether the
People want to see Ronnie Scott?
Of course they want that.
I will fill the hall.
They will dance.
Knock
Do you know who I am?
Vera Brandes.
The music stops.
Just improvise.
Rufton
Improvise.
"Bunker Ulmenwall, hallo?"
"Hello?"
Yes, hello, this is Vera Brandes.
I'm calling from London.
Can I please speak with your
Speak to a booking manager?
"Am Telefon."
- Great.
I book a tour
for the Ronnie Scott Trio.
It will take place from 9 to 13 October
be in the city.
"The 10th would be free."
- The 10th!
Yeah, okay, great...
"What is your share?"
- How high?
One moment please...
"I'll give you 20%
of ticket sales."
20%, perfect.
Sounds perfect.
"Soundcheck at three, doors open at seven,
Show um acht."
Was? Sorry,
I did not understand.
It is very loud
here in the tour bus.
Soundcheck... - "At seven,
It starts at eight."
"Do you have that?" - Yes, I do,
absolutely. So much so.
Yes, concert at eight.
- "See you then."
Okay, see you then.
Thank you thank you.
Bye.
Holy shit.
Guess who is
has booked her first concert!
Sound of horror
Lied: Mother
Sky/ CAN
Driving rock music
This is Vera Brandes from London.
Can I speak to the booking manager?
Yes, hello. I'm booking a tour
for Ronnie Scott.
He will be in town on October 15th.
Ronnie Scott. I'm his agent.
40% of revenue.
Whoever has money has power.
Whoever has power has the right.
See you then.
Vera Brandes, I'm booking a tour
for Ronnie Scott, he's coming...
To obey is to lie.
...on October 13th.
Sound check at four.
Out of the way, capitalists, the
We win the last battle.
See you then.
Can I use the Booking Manager
speak? It's important.
Fantastic.
I'm sorry, what?
I didn't hear you.
(Teacher) So, as follows
summarized...
(Ronnie)
There she is!
You can still make money with jazz.
Apparently.
Apparently.
I have to go.
Bye, Ronnie.
Loud cough
Another triple.
If she comes back.
Driving music
continues.
I would say 50% of
the bar and 10% of the entrance fee.
Explore God within you,
by letting the animal inside you out.
They play standards.
From now on you won't hear anything else.
- CAN?
The newspaper says that means "communism,
Anarchism, Nihilism".
Some say it comes from the
Turkish "an" for "life", "soul".
Do you want to know the truth?
They collected suggestions
in a tin can,
two wrote "CAN"
on their notes. That's it.
Thank you thank you.
The music stops.
(Mother) No, you take care
take care of the water damage!
In two weeks
The Engelmann family moves in.
There is such a strange smell
in practice this morning.
(Vera) Aha.
(Father) Fritz, what are
your plans for today?
Another day
sit around and do nothing?
He's trying hard.
Losers make an effort
Winners get the job.
I'm not a loser. - No?
To me you look like one.
Does this have to happen with cigarette smoking
be at breakfast?
Yes.
Where is she going again?
- School!
So, come in.
It's not big, but...
(Vera) Soon I was earning enough
to rent a small "office".
Light-flooded, best location and
a very reasonable price.
I'll take it.
- Gladly.
(Be) No!
No, the 4th one doesn't work.
Absolutely not!
not for this amount!
Ralph Towner will not be three
Miss concerts and with you...
So, open your mouth.
- What is that?
This is the body of Christ.
Listen to the nice gentleman.
(Vera) I just want to understand why
They think that's my problem.
Very good.
(Vera) I don't complicate anything,
I'm just protecting my artist.
Then listen to me, then come...
You know what? Then drive it!
What are you doing to me?
- Corrupt you.
(Vera) Listen,
that's impossible.
"Miss, that's not how it works!
The concert must take place."
(Vera) Yes, good.
Learn to use it.
Don't yell at me.
Incomprehensible
Telephone voice
(One)
Lesson 2, Floh de Cologne.
Song: Be still/
Floh from Cologne
Fast rock music
(Sings along silently) #You love,
while you're young.#
#Later you get married.#
(silently) #But I want
Don't always just obey!#
#Be calm,
Assembly line baby, get married.#
#But I don't always want
do the same!#
#Be quiet, assembly line baby,
Start a family!#
#But I don't always want
work and do housework!#
#Be quiet, assembly line baby,
Buy a car!#
#But I don't always want to have children,
work and do housework!#
#Be quiet, assembly line baby,
Build a house!#
#But I don't want to
totally verbose!#
#Be quiet, assembly line baby,
TV!#
#But I want
don't ruin my health!#
#Be quiet, assembly line baby,
prepare for old age.#
#But I don't want to...#
#Be quiet, assembly line baby,
work!#
#Work is fun!#
Yells
(Mann)
Be quiet down there!
Nothing can
silence!
Everyone laughs and shouts.
#finishwork
triple the fun!#
#Weekend has
Cock in mouth!#
The music stops.
Vera hums.
Removed voices
Steps on the stairs
Morning! Get up.
The parents
arguing in the background.
I know what you're up to.
Was?
I know that you are here
you don't sleep at all anymore.
I know that you
have an apartment.
I can ruin everything for you.
- You don't dare.
(Fritz)
Try it out.
You are disturbed.
It's 7:40 a.m., Vera.
- Will you drive me?
Yes.
What do you want?
Work.
Lied:
Hallogallo/ Neu!
Driving rock music
(Fritz) You didn't tell me
that we drive all night.
You pay me for this
not enough.
You want more money?
Then just do
your work.
I don't work for you.
And whether you work for me.
Hurry up!
(Jan, impatiently) Oliver,
get ready now, come on!
Police siren
(Jan)
Schnell, schnell!
(Jan) The.
- Fahr.
Driving music continues.
Incomprehensible
Megaphone voice
(TV announcer)
"They feel oppressed.
These declarations not only
those who are dissatisfied, those who demonstrate."
(Women shout)
"My belly belongs to me!"
(TV announcer) "Most women
want the deadline solution.
Overall,
73 percent of all women,
that the Bundestag
decides on the deadline solution."
(Reporter 1) They have dozens
Jazz artists brought to Cologne.
How do you get along
in contact with so many musicians?
To eat ice.
(Reporter 1) If you are at your age
don't listen to rock 'n' roll?
We dont like being told
what we should hear.
(Reporter 1) Us?
- My friends.
(Reporter 2) Friends from high school?
- Some, yes.
(Reporter 1)
Do you believe in love?
(Reporter 1)
Are you in favor of abortion?
I am... against Nazis.
(Reporter 1)
Do you have a steady boyfriend?
I don't know.
Do you have one?
(Reporter 2) Is it okay if a
Woman uses her appearance,
to gain advantages
to obtain?
If she wants to.
What do you want from life?
Die.
And then become immortal.
(Reporter 2) You are quoting Godard.
Just the wrong way around.
Mocking laughter
I'm more practical.
Music stops.
Give
(Fritz) This is exploitation
the working class!
(Vera) Yes. Look,
that this is straight!
That's just not fair.
I have a high school diploma.
I deserve better.
It's just like Dad says...
(Teacher) Which picture is
for the sentence: "The feminist seed..."
Miss Brandes!
"The Feminist Seed..."
(Father) Where do you think
you're going now? - Berlin.
Jazztage.
I'll be back on Monday.
Absolutely not.
Who gave you permission to do this?
I don't need permission.
- Vera, I'm not paying for this.
I need
nor your money.
You stay here.
- Don't touch me.
(Mrs.) Dr. Brandes.
- Hello, Ms. Menken.
(Mrs. Menken) Is everything in
Is everything in order at your place?
Everything's fine, yes.
It's all ok.
1974, the Ramones are founded,
Disco is about to break through,
but in Berlin
is all about jazz.
Wild jazz music
Shrill sounds
Berlin has the best
Jazz festival in the world.
(TV announcer)
"Jazztage in Berlin.
His picture hung
on every corner of Berlin.
Miles Davis, the
most influential musicians
at the international
Jazz Music,
was the focus
the Berlin Jazz Days."
Wild jazz music
Do you think what I think?
Hm?
Do you think the same as me?
I don't know, what do you think?
If anyone in here
a bomb explodes,
exists all over the world
no more jazz.
Why would someone detonate a bomb?
- Because he hates jazz?
I am Michael.
Yes.
I know what this looks like.
But believe me,
soon I will be an important
Part of this story.
This is Miles Davis!
Quiet
(Vera) In Berlin I met Keith Jarrett
see play for the first time.
And the first time
you always remember.
Keith Jarrett plays Reading
of Sacred Books von Gurdjieff.
Emotional music
The music becomes more intense.
The music becomes quieter.
birds chirping
Vera laughs quietly.
The music is real.
She screams loudly.
Laugh
(laughing) Hello!
What are you doing here?
Where have you been?
Did you stay up all night
waited here?
They wanted
not let me in.
Oh no!
Morning!
Here, almost done.
(Neighbor) Morning.
I will have a concert
organize.
For Keith Jarrett.
Keith Jarrett? The guy who plays keyboards
plays for Miles?
Only him.
And a piano.
No band.
No standards.
He's just playing something?
- Nothing. Everything.
He improvises.
- You smell of sweat.
You stink like a pig,
who stayed outside all night
slept. - You're the pig.
kissing sounds
Do you get money for
organize the concert?
If I get a hall
and fill it.
Jan laughs.
Gigi's ice cream parlor?
Vera laughs.
The Cologne Opera House.
- Jazz? At the opera?
1,000 seats?
- 1.300.
For jazz? You have completely
lost his mind.
Do you have Keith Jarrett
ever seen play?
(Jan)
No.
So you can
don't understand either.
Jazz piano music
(Michael) The Cologne Opera
was built in 1902.
The building was
bombed in the war
and then, like the rest of the city,
rebuilt in the modern style.
One thing is clear:
A renowned house like this
does not normally host...
Jazz concert?
Not a jazz concert.
A Keith Jarrett concert.
You have to go to the rehearsal room.
- Thanks.
Excuse me, Miss Brandes.
We have a performance.
I just need a commitment.
For January 24th.
Make ten copies.
Impossible, I'm afraid.
Why? - It says "Lulu"
on the schedule.
"Lulu"? - Do you have the
Offers sent out?
The opera by Alban Berg.
Mr. Breuer.
- Yes, what?
Then we'll start after that!
This will be finished at 10 p.m.
Then the hall must be cleaned
and the instruments are stowed away.
We start at 11 p.m.
11 p.m.? In January?
Are you crazy?
Muffled cacophonous sounds
of the orchestra
(Man) Mr. Breuer, do you want
You see the stage design?
- I'll be with you in a minute!
I will fill the hall.
Thanks.
No stage design. No electronic instruments.
No sound system.
Nothing. He and a grand piano.
Your Bsendorfer.
And you pay in advance?
- Naturally.
That makes 10,000 DM.
10.000 DM?
Is this a problem for you?
No.
Of course not.
- Nice.
Very nice.
10.000 DM?
Where do you want
get that much money?
What do I look like?
Great. But 10,000 DM?
I must be young
and look innocent.
If "innocent"
I wouldn't be so sure.
Hello!
Shit.
(Fritz) Ah.
The Jazz Bunny.
Could i
have an autograph?
I am a huge admirer
Your work... - Where are they?
Why do you look like that?
Hello.
I'm sorry. I didn't know
that they would print this headline.
They want
sell many newspapers.
(Mother) Your director
also read the newspaper.
She refers you
from school.
I'll straighten this out.
Mrs. Vogel's decision
is certain.
I assume
This is the wrong time to look for
to ask for a loan of 10,000 DM?
Vera screams. Jazz Bunny! So
is called my daughter!
Is that what you are now? - Horst! -
This is what we brought into the world!
(Mother) Bravo.
Be!
Be!
(Father) Let her go!
- Vera, stop!
She moans.
Muffled debate
of the parents
Door slamming and footsteps
Audible exhalation
(Father) You came back?
- Yes.
I'm sorry,
that I hit you.
Really. Come here, please.
Vera sobs.
He hums a tune.
Vera hums along.
Is it because of the money?
Is that why you're here?
I told you. Like a whore.
I'll pay you directly
back after the concert.
I've already agreed.
Do you know what I did,
when I was your age?
You went to school?
I was sitting on a huge
Headlight that rotated.
And tried,
to locate aircraft,
who came,
to bomb the city.
I saw it down to the foundations
burn down.
Until there was nothing left.
Nothing.
And on these ruins I have
rebuilt my life.
And now
I have two children.
A loser
and a whore.
If I were a real whore,
I wouldn't have to ask you for money.
You can run away,
as much as you want, Vera.
You can
organize small concerts
and pretend
like you're a jazz bunny.
But I tell you,
how your story ends:
You will fail.
You will fail
and lose everything.
Then you go
back to school.
And if you are lucky, you will
one day have your own practice.
In the basement of the house,
in which your children live.
But until then you will not
get a penny from me.
Not a single one.
Did you understand?
- Yes.
Board.
Lied: Inside a Silent Tear/
Carmen McRae
Emotional soul music
#Inside a silent tear,#
#I have a silent dream#
#that sometimes sails across#
#the patterns of my mind.#
#For silence follows me#
#and dreams just disappear.#
Music playing
via loudspeaker.
#What is reality#
#and can it be defined?#
#When you're a fool like me#
#it's never really clear.#
The music stops.
What about
happened to your face?
The patriarchy.
Yes?
(sighs) Nothing.
You should go now.
Oh?
Perhaps
you deserve it.
Loud knocking
(Jan, shouting)
Be!
Who is that?
- (Jan) Open the door!
My friend.
Loud knocking
(Jan) Vera!
(Jan, banging on the door)
Open the damn door!
Open the door!
(desperately) Vera!
Be!
Is he there?
- Who?
I heard
you have someone at Gigi's...
what is
happened to your face?
Was that him?
- No, it wasn't him.
Jan, it wasn't him!
- I'll kill you!
I didn't know that
she is with someone!
Calm down,
I knew nothing!
Stop.
Something breaks.
Weak whistle
More things break.
Jan screams.
(Otto)
Calm down!
Battle sounds
Mama.
- Apart!
Stop immediately!
- (Jan) Stop!
Who the hell are you?
Who am I?
Who are you?
This is her mother,
You idiot.
Mother?
She is 18!
(Otto)
Shit, I have to get out of here.
You too!
And you live here all alone?
(quietly) Yes.
You smoke?
Do you have a washing machine?
(quietly) No.
And what
Do you pay the rent?
Mom, you don't have to worry.
I... work.
Hm.
There's a check in here.
This is the money you
for your concert.
You get it
under one condition.
If you dont have the money
can pay back, then...
you give up the music business,
finish school and...
do something
Meaningful things from your life.
Become a dentist.
Yes.
Does Dad know about this?
Not yet.
- He won't agree.
Leave it to me.
If you take the money,
we both have an agreement.
I'll pay you back.
Gut.
clears throat
Nice apartment.
Clears throat again
Jazz piano music
(Interviewer)
"Where did you get your ideas from?"
"The ideas?
Oh, I have
Millions of dreams.
This is all I do:
dream. All the time."
"I thought you played the piano." - "No,
no piano, that's dreaming."
Emotional piano playing
Fast piano music
We have
haven't seen for a year.
I am in Lausanne,
about a story about Keith
Jarrett to write for "Jazz World".
A pretty big order.
Jarrett is just starting
a European tour
with improvised
solo concerts.
What does that mean?
Also...
One can
the development of jazz
as an elimination process
regard.
In the beginning there were compositions
and big bands,
that they played.
Jazz music starts.
The Count Basie Big Band,
ladies and gentlemen.
The bandleader arranges
and conducts the band.
Solos are fixed.
The music becomes more lively.
Ah, look, here comes one.
He plays in a
fixed key
and improvised
on a topic.
He may only use a given
Play number of bars.
Then the bands got smaller.
Quintette, Quartette, Trios.
They improvised
with a fixed chord sequence.
This brings us to
next step in the process...
Live Jazz Music
The bandleader was abolished,
everyone is equal.
They follow a template,
They are called "standard".
SONG THAT REGULARLY LISTED AS
BASIS FOR IMPROVISATIONS SERVES
These musicians bring color
on a stable foundation.
But thats not all.
Because then...
someone decided
to abolish the foundation.
Music stops.
Free Jazz, complete
improvised freedom.
Bass starts.
Nobody knows where it will lead.
It is free and yet requires a
close connection between the musicians.
A virtuosity.
Honestly:
Some things sound shitty.
[BUT NOT EVERYTHING]
The final elimination
dissolves everything.
Keith Jarrett has no one to
Improvise, exchange ideas
and no finished idea,
what he will play.
He is alone.
His head is empty.
Try that.
Yes, you. Stand up!
Wherever you are, in the cinema,
in bed, on your couch,
stand up and sing something.
But nothing you know.
It has to be brand new.
Nothing you have ever heard
what you ever thought
or anything you've ever hummed.
No?
I thought to myself.
Imagine this for an hour
every other evening,
without repetition.
And that you would be so good at it,
that from every concert you give,
actually
an album can become.
You know how difficult that is?
You have no idea!
Here we have
Ana-Marija Markovina.
Fast piano piece
If the world
of the piano is foreign:
Markovina is a famous,
Grammy-nominated classical pianist.
Here she takes Carl Philipp
Emanuel Bach's Solfeggio No. 1.
Pretty impressive, huh?
But look here!
Hey, Ana-Marija, can you play something,
that no one has ever heard?
No? What are you waiting for?
Get started!
Take your time.
It is so much harder
than it seems.
And yet
Keith Jarrett does just that.
Every evening.
He moves away from jazz
and plays pure music.
Nothing is predetermined, except the musician,
the moment and of course...
from Piano.
Loud, fast music
The music stops.
Applause and cheers
Keith groans in pain.
(Keith) How was it?
- (Manfred) It was good.
(Keith)
Where are we going next?
(Manfred) To Cologne.
Eight-hour drive.
Fuck!
You can sleep in the car.
- No, I can't.
We're recording. Martin is from Berlin.
- No no no.
No, cancel on him.
(muffled) Seriously. Cancel him.
It won't be good.
The damn coughing.
If this happens again,
I interrupt.
It won't happen tonight.
Oh... But I'm extra
flew here for that.
I'm sorry.
Please, please, I must
conduct this interview.
He can just
don't talk to anyone.
Okay, when can he
talk to me?
We can do it tomorrow
try in Cologne.
Keith screams.
Morning?
Keith screams.
Come on, help me! Please.
Okay, pick him up, slowly.
Caution. Caution!
We have you.
I try
to find a doctor.
Keith groans.
Hey, Keith, nice to meet you.
I am Michael Watts.
(Doctor) You have back
a 60-year-old factory worker.
(Keith) I once had a car
pushed up the hill,
there is an intervertebral disc
slipped.
(Doctor) Your way of playing
doesn't really help.
You know who I am?
Of course. You have
played for Miles Davis.
This will
on my tombstone.
You should
probably stop.
To play?
To move.
They play well enough.
There's no need for this fuss.
Since when
does he have back problems?
He is a very
withdrawn person.
You are not allowed to write any of this.
- Naturally.
The Huster in the Public?
Does he always complain about it?
You just don't get it.
Then help me.
To reach this level,
he must be hyper-focused
and at the same time
completely relaxed.
He is so in the moment,
that every little thing...
around him...
influenced the music.
Every camera click is like a
Club to the head.
That's good,
that's really good.
You can't use that.
- Yes, no, of course not.
(Keith)
It's okay.
Just stop it!
- Okay.
Here we are.
Keith groans in pain.
Oh God.
(Manfred)
Okay so far?
Okay.
Thanks for your help.
Of course.
If you want,
we can try
the interview
to do tomorrow in Cologne.
Yes.
Yes, Cologne. I just have to find a way
get there.
All right then.
Take care, Keith. Maybe
see you in Cologne.
Wait!
Wait!
Thank God.
Hi, I'm sorry.
The truth is:
I don't have a car.
It's late. Would you
take to Cologne?
No interviews.
- Of course not.
Great, thanks.
Oh my God.
Thanks.
It's nice and warm in here.
(Michael) Shall we go to the bus?
- (Keith) To the bus?
(Michael)
To your tour bus.
Are you with this car
on tour?
Listen, man: Stop!
Yes. I'm sorry. - We have
a long journey ahead of us.
And we will be silent.
Okay, yes.
I can be quiet.
Michael coughs.
Calm piano music
(Michael) When Keith Jarrett was three,
everyone knew he was a child prodigy.
Wherever he went,
he caught people's attention.
At 15 he was already touring with musicians,
who were twice as old.
Art Blakey, Charles Lloyd, Wayne Shorter,
with his own trio...
And finally...
the damn holy grail.
Sound of the recording
quietly in the background
Miles probably asked Keith three times,
before he said yes.
Just imagine that!
Miles twice
be turned down?
As if you were receiving an invitation to
Reject Andy Warhol's Factory.
Or cancel Michael Jordan,
if he wants to bring you to the Bulls in 1993.
Finally, Keith said yes.
And everyone thought: This is it,
he did it.
But here it was:
jumped off Miles' train,
without a record deal
with Columbia,
in Europe,
with a broken back.
I can hear you thinking.
Who are you writing for again?
"Jazz World."
As a freelance journalist.
And, how did you like
the concert?
Me?
- Yes.
You heard it, right?
- Yes, I have.
Also?
- It was great.
Keith laughs quietly.
You can tell me.
I thought parts of it were just brilliant.
- And the other parts?
Some parts sounded like
as if you were working on an idea
stuck.
And have they
constantly repeated.
(Keith, laughing)
For goodness' sake!
You asked. - I didn't know
that Lester Bangs is sitting in the car.
I would like to ask something,
Speaking of which.
(Manfred)
We don't talk.
Was?
I try to understand
Why.
Why?
Why you're doing this here.
What do you do?
Music?
No, I mean,
you could be in New York.
Do you know what Dexter Gordon said,
why he moved to Copenhagen?
Because of the weather.
Very funny.
Keith laughs.
I don't know,
whether it answers my question.
Distant aircraft noise
(Michael)
What do we do at the airport?
(Manfred)
I have to do something.
Get something to eat.
I'll see you later.
(Keith)
I can't eat that.
(Michael) Do you ever play
between concerts? - No, never.
Why not?
- That would be rehearsal.
It would creep in.
- Is that why you don't listen to music in the car?
To become empty?
- I'll try it.
How do you start? You go on stage,
sits down at the piano and then?
I put my hand down.
Is it that simple?
- It is not easy.
But it's a coincidence. - No,
nothing about it is a coincidence.
Is "laying down one's hand"
not random by definition?
Who should actually
Interested in any of this?
The people
are interested in you.
My back is killing me.
Keith groans.
You are a follower
of the mystic Gurdjieff.
He thinks we are walking asleep
through life, like automatons.
My spiritual journey
is nobody's business.
I just want to understand.
Understanding is not so important,
as you think.
Have you ever gotten into your car
and drove to work,
without a clue,
how you got there?
And music can wake us up?
- Maybe good music can do that.
Was?
When you play,
you seem to be lost,
you go somewhere.
Isn't that
the opposite of being awake?
Maybe we have different
Definitions of being awake.
Oh, that's good.
(Keith)
Also...
You can't use any of that.
- No, of course not.
He sighs.
I have to pee.
See you in the car.
Snoring
That was a mistake.
Manfred hums in agreement.
Are you crazy?
Should we stop?
No.
Thank you for doing this.
Loud honking
Honks
Michael screams.
Birds chirp,
Cowbells ring.
Quiet
(Michael)
Hey.
Where are we?
(Keith)
Not sure.
(Michael)
Oh, it's cold.
(Keith)
Do me a favor.
Don't say anything.
Just listen.
Birds chirp,
Cowbells ring.
(Keith)
Sch.
Stop thinking.
Gentle piano music
and sounds of nature.
I have one last question.
I know that sentence.
Are you ever afraid of failure?
Every night.
A typewriter
rattles.
(Gus)
That actually happened?
(Michael)
Well, not quite.
Keith and Manfred are from
Lausanne to Cologne, I...
was just not there.
So after fine journalistic
Tradition of storytelling.
The next part
really happened.
ROAD III
THE KLN CONCERRock music
(radio announcer)
"And now from New York:
Todd Rundgren,
'Everybody's Going to Heaven'.
Because already
we've all been through hell."
They are waiting for me.
(Radio announcer:) "You hear
the radio library at WDR."
Lied: Everybody's Going
to Heaven/ Todd Rundgren
Wild Rock Music
I told your girlfriend,
we don't play jazz.
Jazz is dead museum music.
- It's not jazz.
(laughing) Keith Jarrett isn't jazz?
- No.
Aha, what is it then?
- I don't know it.
I thought,
you are the organizer.
Nobody knows. Not even Keith.
That's exactly the point.
So it's jazz.
It is free improvisation.
- Yes, jazz.
He plays whatever comes to mind.
- Yes, that's what you call jazz.
You've never heard this before. Your listeners
deserve to know about it.
Jazz, Jazz, Jazz, Jazz.
Listen,
It's a long story.
But if today I
not sell tickets,
I have to become a dentist.
I can't stand dentists.
- I feel the same way.
So: what can I say?
Say,
that it takes place.
That you dont know what it is,
but that it is "something".
And that this "something" tonight
at eleven in the opera.
If you are currently in Cologne, you should
consider coming,
because nobody knows what it sounds like
or what it will be.
And that something so magical
can arise.
I will say that at eleven in the opera
a jazz concert takes place.
(whispering) Thank you.
I will get a real job
have to find.
"She's still a teenager,
but already
The ultimate femme fatale.
The men fall for her compulsively.
And it ruins them."
Hey, this is my sister,
that you are talking about!
No, that's "Lulu".
This is the opera
before our concert.
How does the opera end?
- She becomes a prostitute,
brings Jack the Ripper home,
who murders her.
How do you know that?
You have to know the old world,
in order to be able to destroy them.
There she is.
Put me on the corner
from the hotel.
In the opera, ensure that everything
is ready for the sound check.
And we must at all points of sale
look,
that they have cards.
What are you waiting for?
Fahr!
(Keith)
I don't want to.
(Manfred)
You need to do a sound check.
I want tonight
not play.
You rest,
then you will feel better.
(Manfred) There she is.
- That's the organizer?
Do you have those from high school?
- Do not forget,
we come from the airport.
Hi, I'm sorry,
I'm late.
Hi, Im Vera Brandes,
Welcome to Cologne.
How was the flight? - We should go.
- Yes.
Follow me!
It's just around the corner.
Is the grand piano tuned?
- Yes, it should be.
The opera has promised it.
Go ahead.
I'll follow.
What's wrong with him?
(Manfred, sighing)
His back.
We would have the route
should not walk.
Keith clears his throat.
Doesn't look good.
(Manfred) He has the whole
Didn't sleep last night.
Not even on the plane?
Sigh
(Be)
Beautiful, isn't it?
He plays a note.
Incomprehensible whisper
Didn't we say
that the opera
a Bsendorfer Imperial
provides?
Yes, isn't he?
He isn't.
- What is it then?
That is a
half-broken piece of junk.
The...
That's not a Bsendorfer?
This is a baby grand piano,
a rehearsal instrument.
That's not an Imperial? - A
Grand Imperial is three meters long.
It has nine additional buttons
and weighs half a ton!
(Keith)
I'll wait downstairs.
Uh... What does that mean?
This is the wrong piano.
Keith Jarrett will
not play a concert.
This must be a misunderstanding,
I... - Yes.
Wait a minute, okay?
(quietly) Shit.
Hello?
Hello?
Hello?
Hello?
Mr. Breuer?
(quietly) Shit.
(Woman)
Can I help you?
(relieved) Oh, yes! Thank God,
You are here, you...
The grand piano on stage
is the wrong one.
We need
the Grand Imperial.
He's not on stage?
- No!
Is Mr. Breuer here?
It's an emergency.
Mr. Breuer is today
Unfortunately not in the house.
Who can help me then?
On me,
It's Friday, 4 p.m.
I'm not sure,
whether anyone can do that.
Impossible, I was
Grand Imperial promised.
Mr. Breuer gave it to me personally
insured. - I'm very sorry.
Where do you keep
Your wings open?
Our wings?
I do not quite understand.
The pianos? Where are they kept
the opera opens its pianos?
I don't know it.
A piano is missing!
Where could it be?
You don't need so
to talk to me.
Yes, excuse me,
I'm just trying to...
What's your name?
Sabine Hofmann.
Ms. Hofmann.
I need your help.
Can you
call anyone?
The technical director or Breuer?
There has to be someone.
I suppose I can try.
- Please.
Charged piano music
Nobody answers.
Try Breuer.
Do we really want it
bother with it?
Try Breuer, please.
It's already good.
There we have it.
3...4...2...
5...4...3...
Hello?
Hello? This is
Sabine Hofmann from the opera.
I'm sorry,
To disturb you on Friday,
but I would have to
Speak to Mr Breuer.
Is he perhaps
already arrived?
Oh, no?
Could he
maybe call back?
Yes, thanks.
No no no,
everything is fine.
Everything's fine, yes.
Yes, I wish that
You too,
that you
have a nice weekend.
Goodbye.
Ms. Hofmann,
"Lulu" starts in 2 hours,
the piano on stage is broken.
Keith Jarrett
is not in the opera
on a broken
Playing the fucking piano!
You don't need to shout like that.
- Yes, I have to scream!
For me
This is about everything.
I need a grand piano.
Here, in the next
two hours.
So he cant
to play on?
On the grand piano that's on stage?
- No!
Swelling piano music
The music stops.
Nobody knows
where the wing is.
Can you tell me what happened to
this one is wrong?
Apart from being upset?
- Yes.
(sighing loudly) One of the
Pedals don't work.
Okay. - The speech of the
Keyboard is unbalanced.
Some keys even stick.
- Yes.
And it sounds
simply not good.
The sound is hollow, it has no
no volume. - Yes.
The sound is too thin
for this hall.
He is simply
not loud enough.
Not for 1,000 people. - What,
if it is the only option?
Manfred
laughs sarcastically.
Even if this is the last instrument
in the world,
Keith will not
play on it.
Piano music
starts again.
Excuse me for a moment.
Ms. Hofmann?
Do you have a phone book?
Ah, you're back.
- I'm back.
Do you have a phone book?
- Of course.
We will need that.
And I need your phones.
And the piano tuner!
I'll be right back,
I'll get everyone!
All?
Who is everyone?
Excuse me? I should
Record a Keith Jarrett concert.
Where should I build?
Thanks.
Oliver laughs.
Everything OK?
- Isa, I need you now.
(One)
Come on, come on!
The piano music
becomes more intense.
We call piano shops.
instrument rental company,
Venues.
Wherever you have a grand piano
have and bring here.
The piano tuners.
- Ah! Thanks!
Bsendorfer Grand Imperial.
As fast as possible.
Try to be professional.
Grand Imperial.
(Oliver on the phone) I need
a Grand Imperial...
Fritz, Isa, Jan, Oliver
confused on the phone
(Jan) Yes, I know, that is
a special concern.
Yes I know,
It's late, I know...
I am very friendly.
(Fritz) A Grand Imperial,
at the Cologne Opera.
I understand that it is the
most expensive piano in the world.
(Oliver)
We need him tonight.
We need him now.
Everyone is talking at once.
Immediately.
Fritz Brandes.
A Grand Imperial.
Can you please call someone?
It's an emergency.
(Isa) You have nowhere...
Understood.
I regret,
to hear that. Thank you.
I have
a wing raised.
Grand Imperial. In the auditorium
the adult education center.
(Jan) Across the street. We can get him.
(Oliver) They're letting us in.
- Yes.
We are on the way.
See you soon.
Come on, I'll meet you outside!
(Be, call)
Yes!
We have
found a Grand Imperial.
We'll bring him here immediately.
- Gut.
Yes, I feel sorry for everything
also very sorry, and I...
Piano tuner?
Yes. - Come with me! - Where to?
To the new wing!
Piano?
- Yes, hello!
Here it is.
(Man) We were just about to
send back to the depot.
I need you to sign a liability waiver
have it signed.
Of course. - (Piano tuner)
Hello? Stop!
(screaming)
Stop!
You can't do that.
- What?
This is not a
Pub instrument.
The transport ruins it.
I have no choice.
Do you have 40,000 marks to spare?
That will cost the repair.
I don't have time, really!
Whatever the problem,
this is not the solution!
What is the solution?
(Voice) Show me
the other wing.
The wing is broken!
Show me the wing.
Please.
Do you want it now
or not?
(Voice) Okay.
- (Vera) Okay. Good.
(Announcement) "At the start of the performance, please
I the ladies and gentlemen
of the orchestra and the
actors on stage."
Piano sounds
And?
- We can fix it.
But for this room...
Said:
"Show me the wing."
We can fix it.
- But not to a Grand Imperial.
This is a rehearsal piano.
- We are piano tuners.
We don't perform miracles.
Ring
Dramatic instrumental sounds
swell.
The sounds fade away.
He won't play.
The sounds
swell again.
(Announcement) "The ladies and gentlemen of the
Orchestra
and the actors onto the stage."
Operations
The music stops,
Vera gasps.
Vera sobs quietly.
She sobs loudly.
She takes a deep breath.
Knock
(Fritz, muffled)
Is that you, you idiot?
No.
(Fritz)
Let me in.
(Be)
Was?
Everyone is looking for you.
What are you doing here?
He doesn't perform, I
don't have the money.
Then the agreement applies.
So you give up?
I wish they had
the 10,000 DM was given.
So what? What do you want
then do with it?
I have some ideas.
Vera laughs.
You know,
that I hate you, right?
Yes. - But if anyone
finds a way, then you.
He will not perform.
- Make him do it.
How should I get him to do that? - I
I don't know. Improvise, improvise!
Look at us.
I...
I look good.
Vera laughs quietly.
Na klar.
But you...
You are Vera Brandes.
Not even 20 years and already
a real jazz bunny.
(Fritz)
They're coming tonight.
Who?
- Mom and dad.
Have me
asked for tickets.
He wants to see me fail.
Yes.
Why are you
suddenly so nice?
Because I
hate even more than you.
Charged piano music
Quiet babble
(Voice) That's it.
How long do you need
to repair this?
Five hours.
And "Lulu" starts soon.
Can you work,
while they play?
During the performance we are supposed
repair a grand piano from "Lulu"?
Yes, back here.
You have one hour between opera and
Concert. They can test it there.
No.
We can try.
More intense piano music
Thanks.
The music
gives way to street noise.
(Mann)
Hey! Watch out!
Calm piano music
sets in.
Hey.
Everything OK?
Will Keith play?
- Perhaps.
Did you get any sleep?
- Maybe I'm sleeping right now.
Don't we all do that?
You asked him,
why he does this.
Why he tours this way.
Far away from home, with the
small car, with his back.
Do you know why we
stopped at the airport?
To return the tickets,
which the organizer sent,
so that we can make money
for the tour.
Sigh of surprise
Artists like Keith
diving maybe
once per generation.
But that
The world doesn't seem to care.
Music for the museum, dead.
Nobody comes.
Is that why Columbia dropped him?
- They want standards.
He is a risk.
In America, business is eating
the artist.
Or?
In Europe we still have
some respect for them.
You mean it is American
Music for a European audience?
It is music
for people with ears.
Michael laughs.
Vera gasps.
(Keith)
Who 's there?
Vera Brandes.
What happened to you?
- I'm sorry, I...
Did you sleep?
I have two days
didn't sleep.
Have you found a piano?
- I'll have the broken one repaired.
That won't help. - Wait,
if you don't play,
then that was it for me
in the music business.
Well, then I'll do you a favor.
- I beg you.
You beg me,
to fail.
I beg you to save me.
If you don't play,
that was the end of my life.
Sorry, I can't.
Fuck!
(Keith)
Was?
Can I ask you one thing?
Since when do you play on expensive
Grand Imperial concert grand pianos
with nine extra buttons?
Do you know what I believe?
I think you're spoiled.
You are afraid.
Inwardly you doubt,
whether you can do it.
Playing a note without knowing exactly
how it will sound.
To really improvise.
Perhaps
you should thank me.
Maybe I can offer you
an opportunity.
An opportunity for what?
To go new ways.
How old are you?
- You're not 25.
I am 18.
- An 18-year-old child.
And you walk through the world,
as if people owed you something.
I only organized one concert.
- On a broken grand piano.
With repaired pedal.
- Pretty cheeky.
I have some experience
with narcissistic men.
Can you in Cologne
drink the tap water?
Yes.
In order.
Only for you,
don't forget that.
For me?
When the pedal is repaired.
You play?
- If it's tuned.
You will play?
And if you leave.
- Yes.
Yes!
You're still here.
(radio announcer)
"In the Cologne Opera plays
Keith Jarrett today
a solo concert.
The young organizer
Vera Brandes says,
It is not jazz that Keith is playing right now,
but everything possible."
Today, 11 p.m. at the Opera,
directly after "Lulu".
Dramatic orchestral music
#Come in
in die Menagerie!#
#You proud gentlemen,#
#you fun-loving women.#
#She was created,#
#To instigate mischief,#
#to lure,#
#to seduce,#
#to poison#
#and to murder!#
Loud rumbling
#Without anyone noticing.#
The Opera
continues to run in a subdued manner.
(Michael) It was a
weird dinner.
Like a wake for a disaster,
that was about to happen.
Vera tried to breathe,
Thoughts raced through her head.
Will the piano be repaired in time?
Will anyone come at all?
And Fritz...
Fritz had with this
new feeling to fight.
Something that feels
of love.
Jan kept thinking about the guy,
with whom Vera had slept.
This kept him awake at night.
And Oliver hoped that the piano fiasco
hadn't spoiled his relationship with Isa.
Who eagerly did so,
as if she didn't notice.
So! I have to go,
look after the wing.
See you there.
(Michael) Keith meanwhile...
- Stop!
It's like a sauna here.
There is something
what I have to tell you.
Don't get angry.
Martin is
with the equipment there.
I told you I don't want that.
- He is recording the concert.
This will not be a concert,
but a shitty car accident.
We have already paid him.
- And? Send him home.
We will not publish it.
Promised.
No thanks. - Our famous
Earthbeeren to Love.
Laugh
Oh God.
- Oh man.
What a
damn disaster.
Laugh
Are you sure that the
the right wing?
(Tuner)
The pedal works.
That's a good thing.
Deep piano tone.
We don't have any more time.
Could you go somewhere?
Hm?
They are no help.
Hey, good evening.Keith Jarrett
is playing a solo concert today.
Right now, in 20 minutes...
Just look at it!
- I already have plans.
Keith Jarrett at the opera!
(Woman, shouting) No thanks.
- In 20 minutes!
Wait.
- No.
This concert will
Change your life.
(One)
Vera! What are you doing here?
I have to fill the hall.
- You don't need any notes.
Why?
I have a few more minutes.
Vera, it's sold out.
- Was?
The concert.
The opera house is sold out.
Sold out?
Yes!
- Come on.
Laugh
babble
gong strikes
(Man) Is there another one coming,
or can you take the jacket away from there?
gong strikes
The time has come.
Let's get it over with.
Melodic clarinet music
Other instruments
set.
Vera moans,
Applause erupts.
Orchestral music swells.
Lied: To Love
Somebody/ Nina Simone
Emotional soul music
#There's a light,#
#a certain kind of light#
#that's never shone on me.#
#I want my whole life to be#
#lived with you,#
#lived with you.#
#There's a way,#
#everybody say,#
#do each and every
little thing.#
#But what good does it bring#
#if I ain't got you,
#ain't got you?#
#You don't know
what it's like.#
#Baby, you don't know
what it's like#
#to love somebody,
love somebody,#
#the way I love you.#
Applause
#In my brain#
#I see your face again.#
#I know my frame of mind.#
#You ain't got to be
so blind.#
#And I'm so blind,#
#so blind.#
#But I'm a woman,#
#can't you see what I am?#
#I live and breathe for you.#
#What good does it do#
#if I ain't got you,#
#I ain't got you?#
#Say, you don't know
what it's like.#
#Baby, you don't know
what it's like#
#to love somebody,#
#to love somebody,#
#the way I do.#
#You don't know
what it's like...#
The song
continues to play subdued.
You go?
There are people you
you haven't offended yet.
I would like to tell you something else,
before you go.
You were
a terrible father.
And I will
all the shit,
that you have done to me,
never forget.
The names,
that you gave me.
But if I
a disappointment,
I did something right.
(Father)
Goodbye.
(Isa) Are you okay?
- Mhm.
I have you
made a drink.
I need vodka.
- Do we have.
I need a whole bottle.
- We have that too.
Where are we going next?
Baden.
Back to Switzerland.
- No...
Oh God.
How do you think it went?
(Manfred) Tonight?
- Yes.
(Manfred)
It was good.
A recording of the Kln Concert
was published in 1975.
Widely
considered a masterpiece,
it became the best-selling
Solo jazz LP in history.
Vera Brandes founded
her own music label.
She published
Hundreds of records,
organized hundreds of
Tours and live concerts.
Same.
Two.
- Three.
They whistle silently
and laugh.
I would say,
that was a disaster.
#What good does it do#
#if I ain't got you,#
#if I ain't got you.#
#Say, you don't know
what it's like.#
#Baby, you don't know
what it's like#
#to love somebody,#
#to love somebody,#
#the way I love you.#
#You don't know
what it's like.#
#Baby, you don't know
what it's like#
#to love somebody,#
#to love somebody,#
#the way I love you.#
The music is real.
Lied:
Gunther/ Dendermonde
Driving instrumental music
Projector started.
Piano sounds
Click
(Mann)
700 miles from Cologne,
wo Keith Jarrett
gave a concert in 1975,
The Sistine Chapel is located.
400 years
before Keith took the stage,
Michelangelo stood there
a scaffold and painted the ceiling.
Today everyone can
visit the chapel.
But imagine if you had
Michelangelo seen on the scaffolding.
This is something completely different,
not true?
This is not a movie
about "The Kln Concert".
It is not about the mural,
the ceiling or by Michelangelo.
It's about the scaffolding.
Jazz piano music
INSPIRED BY A
TRUE STORY
TOLD
BY VERA BRANDES HERSELF
(Be)
Why do I start here?
Muffled babble
Piano music swells.
(Vera, whispering)
Oh, he came.
Shit.
(Woman)
Vera, there you are!
(guests)
Happy Birthday, Vera!
50 and still
such a jazz bunny.
With a furry paw
already in the grave.
I brought cake.
- I need something to drink.
- I did too, come on.
(Choral singing)
#Happy Birthday, dear Vera.#
#Happy Birthday to you!#
Jubelrufe
Tired
(Woman)
Network!
No no no!
(Everyone) Speak!
- (Woman) Come on, come on!
Someone hits with cutlery
against a glass.
Excuse me. Good evening.
Um, Vera...
is, like you, um...
probably everyone knows
my daughter.
Spoons are
hit glasses.
When she was young,...
She had a lot of potential there.
Mind.
Good looks.
She could have become a judge.
Doctor. Or diplomat.
But now we are here.
She turned 50 years old.
A good moment,
to take stock. And...
I must say...
It is, without doubt, the greatest
Disappointment of my life.
Click
Lets start again!
Shrill whistle
Film rewinds.
In the music business
it is called "False Start",
if a recording
is stopped in the middle,
if someone messes up or
it doesn't feel right.
My personal favorite is
definitely that of The Cramps.
Intro: I Was a
Teenage Werewolf/ The Cramps
Intro stops.
(Conversation in the recording) "What
What are you doing?" - "Nothing..."
"No! We're recording a shitty album!
Fuck off or sit down!
Nobody stops the damn tape,
when The Cramps are in the studio."
Certainly very lovely people.
How to interrupt a recording,
says a lot about the musicians.
Dylan laughs at the failed
Try to get to "Highway 61" easily.
Intro: Highway 61
Revisited/ Bob Dylan
Laughter in the recording
Song stops.
(Dylan, laughing) "Okay,
Let's try again."
Stan Getz apologizes,
Fleetwood Mac are arguing.
Lee Hazlewood
you can hear spitting.
But Bird and Miles
just whistle.
Whistle
Let's try again.
Younger.
Live Jazz Music
One!
They're quite good.
For English people,
who play jazz, it works!
He owns a club
in London: "Ronnie Scott's".
I wonder,
what he calls his cock.
Ronnie Scotts Ronnie Scott?
By Ronnie Scott?
I'm Ronnie Scott and we make
a break before I melt away.
Jubelrufe
He's funny.
So funny
not now either.
I'll be right back.
- Vera, please don't.
Oh, sorry.
What kind of ice cream would you like?
A cold one?
(Woman) This is my ice cream!
- You're a sweetheart.
- (Man) What's that?
Babble of voices
and quiet jazz music
(Isa) How do you do that?
- Was?
Act like you own the store.
- I just pretend.
(One)
Anyway, it works.
Great. Now he's coming over.
Can I
lovely ladies what to spend?
I ask because at the bar
There is supposedly a senior discount.
Shall we?
Clear.
Quiet piano music
How old are you?
I remember when I was 25.
A very long time ago, wasn't it?
Do you like jazz?
- If he's good.
Who do you like?
Coltrane.
Was that it? The list begins
and ends with Coltrane?
Miles... Mingus, Gordon...
Sonny... Monk...
And my jazz?
Of...
need one
better drummer.
Ronnie laughs.
That hurts me now.
- Gut.
Are you like that with everyone?
Or just
with the good-looking ones?
You are an old man,
which takes place in an ice cream parlor.
How would you like
that I talk to you?
Friendly.
- What about grandparents?
I would let my grandchild
never to such a place.
And why?
- Well, too much sax.
With an A.
What were you thinking?
That was bad.
Ah, here we are.
My hotel.
Your hotel?
- Yes.
May I ask you something? - No,
if you can kiss me, right?
Are you booking
a tour for me?
A tour?
- Yes, in Germany.
Why should I?
I'll pay you.
10% of my fee.
Why me?
I've never done that before.
Because to you
definitely no one says no.
Good night, Vera Brandes.
keys rattling
Door is closed.
A tour?
Good night!
The door squeaks quietly.
The stairs creak quietly.
(Father)
You have school tomorrow.
I didn't notice
that it is so late.
- Where have you been?
Bei Isa.
I can smell the cigarettes. I
talk to you, young lady.
Like a whore. Come
home in the middle of the night.
Would you mind?
You were in that jazz club,
not true?
If you only have half of the
want to achieve what I have achieved,
you have to take another route
hit, young lady.
He is a dentist.
Open your mouth.
The drill whirs.
screams
Muffled screams
This must be Mr. Knigs
root canal.
What are you doing here?
Hello.
I book a tour
for Ronnie Scott.
"I'm booking a tour..."
I am 18,
can't find a job...
"I am planning fantasy concerts for pensioners,
whom I met yesterday."
(Mother)
Stop now!
Sit down.
Vera sighs in annoyance.
Muffled screams
The door creaks.
(Vera) The best thing about father's practice:
a private telephone connection.
What am I even trying to say?
Hello.
I am Vera Brandes, I...
I book a tour
for Ronnie Scott.
Yes, hello,
This is Vera Brandes,
I am currently booking a tour
for Ronnie Scott.
Will people come?
Of course they will.
Are you joking?
clears throat
Hello, this is Vera Brandes.
I book a tour
for the Ronnie Scott Trio.
"For whom?"
Ronnie Scott, the jazz musician.
Hello?
Hello, this is Vera Brandes.
Sorry for the late interruption.
I am currently booking a tour
for the Ronnie Scott Trio.
A year and a half earlier?
Oh, one second, someone's coming in.
I'll call back right away.
School bell
(Isa) What's wrong with you?
Nobody knows
that Ronnie Scott is famous.
Maybe I'll do
something wrong.
Or it is the practice.
She's so depressing.
If someone from England is in the record store
calls, the boss becomes friendlier.
Then I should call from England.
- You have to get there first.
Could i
beg a cigarette?
Who are you?
Oliver.
I just moved here.
Where did you move from?
- Hanover.
Hanover.
- Hanover.
Both whistle.
What do you do for fun?
We organize
Resistance against
oppressive
political systems.
Do you have any steady friends?
We don't believe
to steady friends.
(Man) Be!
Honks
(Vera) I have to!
Laugh
Who is that?
Her boyfriend.
This goes here
not to school.
No. He goes here
not to school.
Rhythmic music
(Be)
HI!
Pretend you're a club owner.
I'll call you.
And November is not possible, but then,
December 1st would be great.
So you will only
work for that guy?
I will
Concert promoter.
He wants to sleep with you,
you know that.
Shall we try it?
Gut.
Hello.
- You know what?
We do it in English.
All right. Hello?
Hi. I'm booking a tour
for Ronnie Scott.
Who is Ronnie Scott?
- The jazz musician.
Oh, how terrible,
I hate his music.
Please never call again.
Thanks, bye.
Happy music
Manager.
I am the concert...
Boss... Organizer...
Booker... the concert...
Knock
(Brother) Vera, hello!
- I promote.
(Brother) You are there
been in there for 30 minutes.
(Be)
Promoter.
I am the concert promoter
by Ronnie Scott.
You seriously ask whether the
People want to see Ronnie Scott?
Of course they want that.
I will fill the hall.
They will dance.
Knock
Do you know who I am?
Vera Brandes.
The music stops.
Just improvise.
Rufton
Improvise.
"Bunker Ulmenwall, hallo?"
"Hello?"
Yes, hello, this is Vera Brandes.
I'm calling from London.
Can I please speak with your
Speak to a booking manager?
"Am Telefon."
- Great.
I book a tour
for the Ronnie Scott Trio.
It will take place from 9 to 13 October
be in the city.
"The 10th would be free."
- The 10th!
Yeah, okay, great...
"What is your share?"
- How high?
One moment please...
"I'll give you 20%
of ticket sales."
20%, perfect.
Sounds perfect.
"Soundcheck at three, doors open at seven,
Show um acht."
Was? Sorry,
I did not understand.
It is very loud
here in the tour bus.
Soundcheck... - "At seven,
It starts at eight."
"Do you have that?" - Yes, I do,
absolutely. So much so.
Yes, concert at eight.
- "See you then."
Okay, see you then.
Thank you thank you.
Bye.
Holy shit.
Guess who is
has booked her first concert!
Sound of horror
Lied: Mother
Sky/ CAN
Driving rock music
This is Vera Brandes from London.
Can I speak to the booking manager?
Yes, hello. I'm booking a tour
for Ronnie Scott.
He will be in town on October 15th.
Ronnie Scott. I'm his agent.
40% of revenue.
Whoever has money has power.
Whoever has power has the right.
See you then.
Vera Brandes, I'm booking a tour
for Ronnie Scott, he's coming...
To obey is to lie.
...on October 13th.
Sound check at four.
Out of the way, capitalists, the
We win the last battle.
See you then.
Can I use the Booking Manager
speak? It's important.
Fantastic.
I'm sorry, what?
I didn't hear you.
(Teacher) So, as follows
summarized...
(Ronnie)
There she is!
You can still make money with jazz.
Apparently.
Apparently.
I have to go.
Bye, Ronnie.
Loud cough
Another triple.
If she comes back.
Driving music
continues.
I would say 50% of
the bar and 10% of the entrance fee.
Explore God within you,
by letting the animal inside you out.
They play standards.
From now on you won't hear anything else.
- CAN?
The newspaper says that means "communism,
Anarchism, Nihilism".
Some say it comes from the
Turkish "an" for "life", "soul".
Do you want to know the truth?
They collected suggestions
in a tin can,
two wrote "CAN"
on their notes. That's it.
Thank you thank you.
The music stops.
(Mother) No, you take care
take care of the water damage!
In two weeks
The Engelmann family moves in.
There is such a strange smell
in practice this morning.
(Vera) Aha.
(Father) Fritz, what are
your plans for today?
Another day
sit around and do nothing?
He's trying hard.
Losers make an effort
Winners get the job.
I'm not a loser. - No?
To me you look like one.
Does this have to happen with cigarette smoking
be at breakfast?
Yes.
Where is she going again?
- School!
So, come in.
It's not big, but...
(Vera) Soon I was earning enough
to rent a small "office".
Light-flooded, best location and
a very reasonable price.
I'll take it.
- Gladly.
(Be) No!
No, the 4th one doesn't work.
Absolutely not!
not for this amount!
Ralph Towner will not be three
Miss concerts and with you...
So, open your mouth.
- What is that?
This is the body of Christ.
Listen to the nice gentleman.
(Vera) I just want to understand why
They think that's my problem.
Very good.
(Vera) I don't complicate anything,
I'm just protecting my artist.
Then listen to me, then come...
You know what? Then drive it!
What are you doing to me?
- Corrupt you.
(Vera) Listen,
that's impossible.
"Miss, that's not how it works!
The concert must take place."
(Vera) Yes, good.
Learn to use it.
Don't yell at me.
Incomprehensible
Telephone voice
(One)
Lesson 2, Floh de Cologne.
Song: Be still/
Floh from Cologne
Fast rock music
(Sings along silently) #You love,
while you're young.#
#Later you get married.#
(silently) #But I want
Don't always just obey!#
#Be calm,
Assembly line baby, get married.#
#But I don't always want
do the same!#
#Be quiet, assembly line baby,
Start a family!#
#But I don't always want
work and do housework!#
#Be quiet, assembly line baby,
Buy a car!#
#But I don't always want to have children,
work and do housework!#
#Be quiet, assembly line baby,
Build a house!#
#But I don't want to
totally verbose!#
#Be quiet, assembly line baby,
TV!#
#But I want
don't ruin my health!#
#Be quiet, assembly line baby,
prepare for old age.#
#But I don't want to...#
#Be quiet, assembly line baby,
work!#
#Work is fun!#
Yells
(Mann)
Be quiet down there!
Nothing can
silence!
Everyone laughs and shouts.
#finishwork
triple the fun!#
#Weekend has
Cock in mouth!#
The music stops.
Vera hums.
Removed voices
Steps on the stairs
Morning! Get up.
The parents
arguing in the background.
I know what you're up to.
Was?
I know that you are here
you don't sleep at all anymore.
I know that you
have an apartment.
I can ruin everything for you.
- You don't dare.
(Fritz)
Try it out.
You are disturbed.
It's 7:40 a.m., Vera.
- Will you drive me?
Yes.
What do you want?
Work.
Lied:
Hallogallo/ Neu!
Driving rock music
(Fritz) You didn't tell me
that we drive all night.
You pay me for this
not enough.
You want more money?
Then just do
your work.
I don't work for you.
And whether you work for me.
Hurry up!
(Jan, impatiently) Oliver,
get ready now, come on!
Police siren
(Jan)
Schnell, schnell!
(Jan) The.
- Fahr.
Driving music continues.
Incomprehensible
Megaphone voice
(TV announcer)
"They feel oppressed.
These declarations not only
those who are dissatisfied, those who demonstrate."
(Women shout)
"My belly belongs to me!"
(TV announcer) "Most women
want the deadline solution.
Overall,
73 percent of all women,
that the Bundestag
decides on the deadline solution."
(Reporter 1) They have dozens
Jazz artists brought to Cologne.
How do you get along
in contact with so many musicians?
To eat ice.
(Reporter 1) If you are at your age
don't listen to rock 'n' roll?
We dont like being told
what we should hear.
(Reporter 1) Us?
- My friends.
(Reporter 2) Friends from high school?
- Some, yes.
(Reporter 1)
Do you believe in love?
(Reporter 1)
Are you in favor of abortion?
I am... against Nazis.
(Reporter 1)
Do you have a steady boyfriend?
I don't know.
Do you have one?
(Reporter 2) Is it okay if a
Woman uses her appearance,
to gain advantages
to obtain?
If she wants to.
What do you want from life?
Die.
And then become immortal.
(Reporter 2) You are quoting Godard.
Just the wrong way around.
Mocking laughter
I'm more practical.
Music stops.
Give
(Fritz) This is exploitation
the working class!
(Vera) Yes. Look,
that this is straight!
That's just not fair.
I have a high school diploma.
I deserve better.
It's just like Dad says...
(Teacher) Which picture is
for the sentence: "The feminist seed..."
Miss Brandes!
"The Feminist Seed..."
(Father) Where do you think
you're going now? - Berlin.
Jazztage.
I'll be back on Monday.
Absolutely not.
Who gave you permission to do this?
I don't need permission.
- Vera, I'm not paying for this.
I need
nor your money.
You stay here.
- Don't touch me.
(Mrs.) Dr. Brandes.
- Hello, Ms. Menken.
(Mrs. Menken) Is everything in
Is everything in order at your place?
Everything's fine, yes.
It's all ok.
1974, the Ramones are founded,
Disco is about to break through,
but in Berlin
is all about jazz.
Wild jazz music
Shrill sounds
Berlin has the best
Jazz festival in the world.
(TV announcer)
"Jazztage in Berlin.
His picture hung
on every corner of Berlin.
Miles Davis, the
most influential musicians
at the international
Jazz Music,
was the focus
the Berlin Jazz Days."
Wild jazz music
Do you think what I think?
Hm?
Do you think the same as me?
I don't know, what do you think?
If anyone in here
a bomb explodes,
exists all over the world
no more jazz.
Why would someone detonate a bomb?
- Because he hates jazz?
I am Michael.
Yes.
I know what this looks like.
But believe me,
soon I will be an important
Part of this story.
This is Miles Davis!
Quiet
(Vera) In Berlin I met Keith Jarrett
see play for the first time.
And the first time
you always remember.
Keith Jarrett plays Reading
of Sacred Books von Gurdjieff.
Emotional music
The music becomes more intense.
The music becomes quieter.
birds chirping
Vera laughs quietly.
The music is real.
She screams loudly.
Laugh
(laughing) Hello!
What are you doing here?
Where have you been?
Did you stay up all night
waited here?
They wanted
not let me in.
Oh no!
Morning!
Here, almost done.
(Neighbor) Morning.
I will have a concert
organize.
For Keith Jarrett.
Keith Jarrett? The guy who plays keyboards
plays for Miles?
Only him.
And a piano.
No band.
No standards.
He's just playing something?
- Nothing. Everything.
He improvises.
- You smell of sweat.
You stink like a pig,
who stayed outside all night
slept. - You're the pig.
kissing sounds
Do you get money for
organize the concert?
If I get a hall
and fill it.
Jan laughs.
Gigi's ice cream parlor?
Vera laughs.
The Cologne Opera House.
- Jazz? At the opera?
1,000 seats?
- 1.300.
For jazz? You have completely
lost his mind.
Do you have Keith Jarrett
ever seen play?
(Jan)
No.
So you can
don't understand either.
Jazz piano music
(Michael) The Cologne Opera
was built in 1902.
The building was
bombed in the war
and then, like the rest of the city,
rebuilt in the modern style.
One thing is clear:
A renowned house like this
does not normally host...
Jazz concert?
Not a jazz concert.
A Keith Jarrett concert.
You have to go to the rehearsal room.
- Thanks.
Excuse me, Miss Brandes.
We have a performance.
I just need a commitment.
For January 24th.
Make ten copies.
Impossible, I'm afraid.
Why? - It says "Lulu"
on the schedule.
"Lulu"? - Do you have the
Offers sent out?
The opera by Alban Berg.
Mr. Breuer.
- Yes, what?
Then we'll start after that!
This will be finished at 10 p.m.
Then the hall must be cleaned
and the instruments are stowed away.
We start at 11 p.m.
11 p.m.? In January?
Are you crazy?
Muffled cacophonous sounds
of the orchestra
(Man) Mr. Breuer, do you want
You see the stage design?
- I'll be with you in a minute!
I will fill the hall.
Thanks.
No stage design. No electronic instruments.
No sound system.
Nothing. He and a grand piano.
Your Bsendorfer.
And you pay in advance?
- Naturally.
That makes 10,000 DM.
10.000 DM?
Is this a problem for you?
No.
Of course not.
- Nice.
Very nice.
10.000 DM?
Where do you want
get that much money?
What do I look like?
Great. But 10,000 DM?
I must be young
and look innocent.
If "innocent"
I wouldn't be so sure.
Hello!
Shit.
(Fritz) Ah.
The Jazz Bunny.
Could i
have an autograph?
I am a huge admirer
Your work... - Where are they?
Why do you look like that?
Hello.
I'm sorry. I didn't know
that they would print this headline.
They want
sell many newspapers.
(Mother) Your director
also read the newspaper.
She refers you
from school.
I'll straighten this out.
Mrs. Vogel's decision
is certain.
I assume
This is the wrong time to look for
to ask for a loan of 10,000 DM?
Vera screams. Jazz Bunny! So
is called my daughter!
Is that what you are now? - Horst! -
This is what we brought into the world!
(Mother) Bravo.
Be!
Be!
(Father) Let her go!
- Vera, stop!
She moans.
Muffled debate
of the parents
Door slamming and footsteps
Audible exhalation
(Father) You came back?
- Yes.
I'm sorry,
that I hit you.
Really. Come here, please.
Vera sobs.
He hums a tune.
Vera hums along.
Is it because of the money?
Is that why you're here?
I told you. Like a whore.
I'll pay you directly
back after the concert.
I've already agreed.
Do you know what I did,
when I was your age?
You went to school?
I was sitting on a huge
Headlight that rotated.
And tried,
to locate aircraft,
who came,
to bomb the city.
I saw it down to the foundations
burn down.
Until there was nothing left.
Nothing.
And on these ruins I have
rebuilt my life.
And now
I have two children.
A loser
and a whore.
If I were a real whore,
I wouldn't have to ask you for money.
You can run away,
as much as you want, Vera.
You can
organize small concerts
and pretend
like you're a jazz bunny.
But I tell you,
how your story ends:
You will fail.
You will fail
and lose everything.
Then you go
back to school.
And if you are lucky, you will
one day have your own practice.
In the basement of the house,
in which your children live.
But until then you will not
get a penny from me.
Not a single one.
Did you understand?
- Yes.
Board.
Lied: Inside a Silent Tear/
Carmen McRae
Emotional soul music
#Inside a silent tear,#
#I have a silent dream#
#that sometimes sails across#
#the patterns of my mind.#
#For silence follows me#
#and dreams just disappear.#
Music playing
via loudspeaker.
#What is reality#
#and can it be defined?#
#When you're a fool like me#
#it's never really clear.#
The music stops.
What about
happened to your face?
The patriarchy.
Yes?
(sighs) Nothing.
You should go now.
Oh?
Perhaps
you deserve it.
Loud knocking
(Jan, shouting)
Be!
Who is that?
- (Jan) Open the door!
My friend.
Loud knocking
(Jan) Vera!
(Jan, banging on the door)
Open the damn door!
Open the door!
(desperately) Vera!
Be!
Is he there?
- Who?
I heard
you have someone at Gigi's...
what is
happened to your face?
Was that him?
- No, it wasn't him.
Jan, it wasn't him!
- I'll kill you!
I didn't know that
she is with someone!
Calm down,
I knew nothing!
Stop.
Something breaks.
Weak whistle
More things break.
Jan screams.
(Otto)
Calm down!
Battle sounds
Mama.
- Apart!
Stop immediately!
- (Jan) Stop!
Who the hell are you?
Who am I?
Who are you?
This is her mother,
You idiot.
Mother?
She is 18!
(Otto)
Shit, I have to get out of here.
You too!
And you live here all alone?
(quietly) Yes.
You smoke?
Do you have a washing machine?
(quietly) No.
And what
Do you pay the rent?
Mom, you don't have to worry.
I... work.
Hm.
There's a check in here.
This is the money you
for your concert.
You get it
under one condition.
If you dont have the money
can pay back, then...
you give up the music business,
finish school and...
do something
Meaningful things from your life.
Become a dentist.
Yes.
Does Dad know about this?
Not yet.
- He won't agree.
Leave it to me.
If you take the money,
we both have an agreement.
I'll pay you back.
Gut.
clears throat
Nice apartment.
Clears throat again
Jazz piano music
(Interviewer)
"Where did you get your ideas from?"
"The ideas?
Oh, I have
Millions of dreams.
This is all I do:
dream. All the time."
"I thought you played the piano." - "No,
no piano, that's dreaming."
Emotional piano playing
Fast piano music
We have
haven't seen for a year.
I am in Lausanne,
about a story about Keith
Jarrett to write for "Jazz World".
A pretty big order.
Jarrett is just starting
a European tour
with improvised
solo concerts.
What does that mean?
Also...
One can
the development of jazz
as an elimination process
regard.
In the beginning there were compositions
and big bands,
that they played.
Jazz music starts.
The Count Basie Big Band,
ladies and gentlemen.
The bandleader arranges
and conducts the band.
Solos are fixed.
The music becomes more lively.
Ah, look, here comes one.
He plays in a
fixed key
and improvised
on a topic.
He may only use a given
Play number of bars.
Then the bands got smaller.
Quintette, Quartette, Trios.
They improvised
with a fixed chord sequence.
This brings us to
next step in the process...
Live Jazz Music
The bandleader was abolished,
everyone is equal.
They follow a template,
They are called "standard".
SONG THAT REGULARLY LISTED AS
BASIS FOR IMPROVISATIONS SERVES
These musicians bring color
on a stable foundation.
But thats not all.
Because then...
someone decided
to abolish the foundation.
Music stops.
Free Jazz, complete
improvised freedom.
Bass starts.
Nobody knows where it will lead.
It is free and yet requires a
close connection between the musicians.
A virtuosity.
Honestly:
Some things sound shitty.
[BUT NOT EVERYTHING]
The final elimination
dissolves everything.
Keith Jarrett has no one to
Improvise, exchange ideas
and no finished idea,
what he will play.
He is alone.
His head is empty.
Try that.
Yes, you. Stand up!
Wherever you are, in the cinema,
in bed, on your couch,
stand up and sing something.
But nothing you know.
It has to be brand new.
Nothing you have ever heard
what you ever thought
or anything you've ever hummed.
No?
I thought to myself.
Imagine this for an hour
every other evening,
without repetition.
And that you would be so good at it,
that from every concert you give,
actually
an album can become.
You know how difficult that is?
You have no idea!
Here we have
Ana-Marija Markovina.
Fast piano piece
If the world
of the piano is foreign:
Markovina is a famous,
Grammy-nominated classical pianist.
Here she takes Carl Philipp
Emanuel Bach's Solfeggio No. 1.
Pretty impressive, huh?
But look here!
Hey, Ana-Marija, can you play something,
that no one has ever heard?
No? What are you waiting for?
Get started!
Take your time.
It is so much harder
than it seems.
And yet
Keith Jarrett does just that.
Every evening.
He moves away from jazz
and plays pure music.
Nothing is predetermined, except the musician,
the moment and of course...
from Piano.
Loud, fast music
The music stops.
Applause and cheers
Keith groans in pain.
(Keith) How was it?
- (Manfred) It was good.
(Keith)
Where are we going next?
(Manfred) To Cologne.
Eight-hour drive.
Fuck!
You can sleep in the car.
- No, I can't.
We're recording. Martin is from Berlin.
- No no no.
No, cancel on him.
(muffled) Seriously. Cancel him.
It won't be good.
The damn coughing.
If this happens again,
I interrupt.
It won't happen tonight.
Oh... But I'm extra
flew here for that.
I'm sorry.
Please, please, I must
conduct this interview.
He can just
don't talk to anyone.
Okay, when can he
talk to me?
We can do it tomorrow
try in Cologne.
Keith screams.
Morning?
Keith screams.
Come on, help me! Please.
Okay, pick him up, slowly.
Caution. Caution!
We have you.
I try
to find a doctor.
Keith groans.
Hey, Keith, nice to meet you.
I am Michael Watts.
(Doctor) You have back
a 60-year-old factory worker.
(Keith) I once had a car
pushed up the hill,
there is an intervertebral disc
slipped.
(Doctor) Your way of playing
doesn't really help.
You know who I am?
Of course. You have
played for Miles Davis.
This will
on my tombstone.
You should
probably stop.
To play?
To move.
They play well enough.
There's no need for this fuss.
Since when
does he have back problems?
He is a very
withdrawn person.
You are not allowed to write any of this.
- Naturally.
The Huster in the Public?
Does he always complain about it?
You just don't get it.
Then help me.
To reach this level,
he must be hyper-focused
and at the same time
completely relaxed.
He is so in the moment,
that every little thing...
around him...
influenced the music.
Every camera click is like a
Club to the head.
That's good,
that's really good.
You can't use that.
- Yes, no, of course not.
(Keith)
It's okay.
Just stop it!
- Okay.
Here we are.
Keith groans in pain.
Oh God.
(Manfred)
Okay so far?
Okay.
Thanks for your help.
Of course.
If you want,
we can try
the interview
to do tomorrow in Cologne.
Yes.
Yes, Cologne. I just have to find a way
get there.
All right then.
Take care, Keith. Maybe
see you in Cologne.
Wait!
Wait!
Thank God.
Hi, I'm sorry.
The truth is:
I don't have a car.
It's late. Would you
take to Cologne?
No interviews.
- Of course not.
Great, thanks.
Oh my God.
Thanks.
It's nice and warm in here.
(Michael) Shall we go to the bus?
- (Keith) To the bus?
(Michael)
To your tour bus.
Are you with this car
on tour?
Listen, man: Stop!
Yes. I'm sorry. - We have
a long journey ahead of us.
And we will be silent.
Okay, yes.
I can be quiet.
Michael coughs.
Calm piano music
(Michael) When Keith Jarrett was three,
everyone knew he was a child prodigy.
Wherever he went,
he caught people's attention.
At 15 he was already touring with musicians,
who were twice as old.
Art Blakey, Charles Lloyd, Wayne Shorter,
with his own trio...
And finally...
the damn holy grail.
Sound of the recording
quietly in the background
Miles probably asked Keith three times,
before he said yes.
Just imagine that!
Miles twice
be turned down?
As if you were receiving an invitation to
Reject Andy Warhol's Factory.
Or cancel Michael Jordan,
if he wants to bring you to the Bulls in 1993.
Finally, Keith said yes.
And everyone thought: This is it,
he did it.
But here it was:
jumped off Miles' train,
without a record deal
with Columbia,
in Europe,
with a broken back.
I can hear you thinking.
Who are you writing for again?
"Jazz World."
As a freelance journalist.
And, how did you like
the concert?
Me?
- Yes.
You heard it, right?
- Yes, I have.
Also?
- It was great.
Keith laughs quietly.
You can tell me.
I thought parts of it were just brilliant.
- And the other parts?
Some parts sounded like
as if you were working on an idea
stuck.
And have they
constantly repeated.
(Keith, laughing)
For goodness' sake!
You asked. - I didn't know
that Lester Bangs is sitting in the car.
I would like to ask something,
Speaking of which.
(Manfred)
We don't talk.
Was?
I try to understand
Why.
Why?
Why you're doing this here.
What do you do?
Music?
No, I mean,
you could be in New York.
Do you know what Dexter Gordon said,
why he moved to Copenhagen?
Because of the weather.
Very funny.
Keith laughs.
I don't know,
whether it answers my question.
Distant aircraft noise
(Michael)
What do we do at the airport?
(Manfred)
I have to do something.
Get something to eat.
I'll see you later.
(Keith)
I can't eat that.
(Michael) Do you ever play
between concerts? - No, never.
Why not?
- That would be rehearsal.
It would creep in.
- Is that why you don't listen to music in the car?
To become empty?
- I'll try it.
How do you start? You go on stage,
sits down at the piano and then?
I put my hand down.
Is it that simple?
- It is not easy.
But it's a coincidence. - No,
nothing about it is a coincidence.
Is "laying down one's hand"
not random by definition?
Who should actually
Interested in any of this?
The people
are interested in you.
My back is killing me.
Keith groans.
You are a follower
of the mystic Gurdjieff.
He thinks we are walking asleep
through life, like automatons.
My spiritual journey
is nobody's business.
I just want to understand.
Understanding is not so important,
as you think.
Have you ever gotten into your car
and drove to work,
without a clue,
how you got there?
And music can wake us up?
- Maybe good music can do that.
Was?
When you play,
you seem to be lost,
you go somewhere.
Isn't that
the opposite of being awake?
Maybe we have different
Definitions of being awake.
Oh, that's good.
(Keith)
Also...
You can't use any of that.
- No, of course not.
He sighs.
I have to pee.
See you in the car.
Snoring
That was a mistake.
Manfred hums in agreement.
Are you crazy?
Should we stop?
No.
Thank you for doing this.
Loud honking
Honks
Michael screams.
Birds chirp,
Cowbells ring.
Quiet
(Michael)
Hey.
Where are we?
(Keith)
Not sure.
(Michael)
Oh, it's cold.
(Keith)
Do me a favor.
Don't say anything.
Just listen.
Birds chirp,
Cowbells ring.
(Keith)
Sch.
Stop thinking.
Gentle piano music
and sounds of nature.
I have one last question.
I know that sentence.
Are you ever afraid of failure?
Every night.
A typewriter
rattles.
(Gus)
That actually happened?
(Michael)
Well, not quite.
Keith and Manfred are from
Lausanne to Cologne, I...
was just not there.
So after fine journalistic
Tradition of storytelling.
The next part
really happened.
ROAD III
THE KLN CONCERRock music
(radio announcer)
"And now from New York:
Todd Rundgren,
'Everybody's Going to Heaven'.
Because already
we've all been through hell."
They are waiting for me.
(Radio announcer:) "You hear
the radio library at WDR."
Lied: Everybody's Going
to Heaven/ Todd Rundgren
Wild Rock Music
I told your girlfriend,
we don't play jazz.
Jazz is dead museum music.
- It's not jazz.
(laughing) Keith Jarrett isn't jazz?
- No.
Aha, what is it then?
- I don't know it.
I thought,
you are the organizer.
Nobody knows. Not even Keith.
That's exactly the point.
So it's jazz.
It is free improvisation.
- Yes, jazz.
He plays whatever comes to mind.
- Yes, that's what you call jazz.
You've never heard this before. Your listeners
deserve to know about it.
Jazz, Jazz, Jazz, Jazz.
Listen,
It's a long story.
But if today I
not sell tickets,
I have to become a dentist.
I can't stand dentists.
- I feel the same way.
So: what can I say?
Say,
that it takes place.
That you dont know what it is,
but that it is "something".
And that this "something" tonight
at eleven in the opera.
If you are currently in Cologne, you should
consider coming,
because nobody knows what it sounds like
or what it will be.
And that something so magical
can arise.
I will say that at eleven in the opera
a jazz concert takes place.
(whispering) Thank you.
I will get a real job
have to find.
"She's still a teenager,
but already
The ultimate femme fatale.
The men fall for her compulsively.
And it ruins them."
Hey, this is my sister,
that you are talking about!
No, that's "Lulu".
This is the opera
before our concert.
How does the opera end?
- She becomes a prostitute,
brings Jack the Ripper home,
who murders her.
How do you know that?
You have to know the old world,
in order to be able to destroy them.
There she is.
Put me on the corner
from the hotel.
In the opera, ensure that everything
is ready for the sound check.
And we must at all points of sale
look,
that they have cards.
What are you waiting for?
Fahr!
(Keith)
I don't want to.
(Manfred)
You need to do a sound check.
I want tonight
not play.
You rest,
then you will feel better.
(Manfred) There she is.
- That's the organizer?
Do you have those from high school?
- Do not forget,
we come from the airport.
Hi, I'm sorry,
I'm late.
Hi, Im Vera Brandes,
Welcome to Cologne.
How was the flight? - We should go.
- Yes.
Follow me!
It's just around the corner.
Is the grand piano tuned?
- Yes, it should be.
The opera has promised it.
Go ahead.
I'll follow.
What's wrong with him?
(Manfred, sighing)
His back.
We would have the route
should not walk.
Keith clears his throat.
Doesn't look good.
(Manfred) He has the whole
Didn't sleep last night.
Not even on the plane?
Sigh
(Be)
Beautiful, isn't it?
He plays a note.
Incomprehensible whisper
Didn't we say
that the opera
a Bsendorfer Imperial
provides?
Yes, isn't he?
He isn't.
- What is it then?
That is a
half-broken piece of junk.
The...
That's not a Bsendorfer?
This is a baby grand piano,
a rehearsal instrument.
That's not an Imperial? - A
Grand Imperial is three meters long.
It has nine additional buttons
and weighs half a ton!
(Keith)
I'll wait downstairs.
Uh... What does that mean?
This is the wrong piano.
Keith Jarrett will
not play a concert.
This must be a misunderstanding,
I... - Yes.
Wait a minute, okay?
(quietly) Shit.
Hello?
Hello?
Hello?
Hello?
Mr. Breuer?
(quietly) Shit.
(Woman)
Can I help you?
(relieved) Oh, yes! Thank God,
You are here, you...
The grand piano on stage
is the wrong one.
We need
the Grand Imperial.
He's not on stage?
- No!
Is Mr. Breuer here?
It's an emergency.
Mr. Breuer is today
Unfortunately not in the house.
Who can help me then?
On me,
It's Friday, 4 p.m.
I'm not sure,
whether anyone can do that.
Impossible, I was
Grand Imperial promised.
Mr. Breuer gave it to me personally
insured. - I'm very sorry.
Where do you keep
Your wings open?
Our wings?
I do not quite understand.
The pianos? Where are they kept
the opera opens its pianos?
I don't know it.
A piano is missing!
Where could it be?
You don't need so
to talk to me.
Yes, excuse me,
I'm just trying to...
What's your name?
Sabine Hofmann.
Ms. Hofmann.
I need your help.
Can you
call anyone?
The technical director or Breuer?
There has to be someone.
I suppose I can try.
- Please.
Charged piano music
Nobody answers.
Try Breuer.
Do we really want it
bother with it?
Try Breuer, please.
It's already good.
There we have it.
3...4...2...
5...4...3...
Hello?
Hello? This is
Sabine Hofmann from the opera.
I'm sorry,
To disturb you on Friday,
but I would have to
Speak to Mr Breuer.
Is he perhaps
already arrived?
Oh, no?
Could he
maybe call back?
Yes, thanks.
No no no,
everything is fine.
Everything's fine, yes.
Yes, I wish that
You too,
that you
have a nice weekend.
Goodbye.
Ms. Hofmann,
"Lulu" starts in 2 hours,
the piano on stage is broken.
Keith Jarrett
is not in the opera
on a broken
Playing the fucking piano!
You don't need to shout like that.
- Yes, I have to scream!
For me
This is about everything.
I need a grand piano.
Here, in the next
two hours.
So he cant
to play on?
On the grand piano that's on stage?
- No!
Swelling piano music
The music stops.
Nobody knows
where the wing is.
Can you tell me what happened to
this one is wrong?
Apart from being upset?
- Yes.
(sighing loudly) One of the
Pedals don't work.
Okay. - The speech of the
Keyboard is unbalanced.
Some keys even stick.
- Yes.
And it sounds
simply not good.
The sound is hollow, it has no
no volume. - Yes.
The sound is too thin
for this hall.
He is simply
not loud enough.
Not for 1,000 people. - What,
if it is the only option?
Manfred
laughs sarcastically.
Even if this is the last instrument
in the world,
Keith will not
play on it.
Piano music
starts again.
Excuse me for a moment.
Ms. Hofmann?
Do you have a phone book?
Ah, you're back.
- I'm back.
Do you have a phone book?
- Of course.
We will need that.
And I need your phones.
And the piano tuner!
I'll be right back,
I'll get everyone!
All?
Who is everyone?
Excuse me? I should
Record a Keith Jarrett concert.
Where should I build?
Thanks.
Oliver laughs.
Everything OK?
- Isa, I need you now.
(One)
Come on, come on!
The piano music
becomes more intense.
We call piano shops.
instrument rental company,
Venues.
Wherever you have a grand piano
have and bring here.
The piano tuners.
- Ah! Thanks!
Bsendorfer Grand Imperial.
As fast as possible.
Try to be professional.
Grand Imperial.
(Oliver on the phone) I need
a Grand Imperial...
Fritz, Isa, Jan, Oliver
confused on the phone
(Jan) Yes, I know, that is
a special concern.
Yes I know,
It's late, I know...
I am very friendly.
(Fritz) A Grand Imperial,
at the Cologne Opera.
I understand that it is the
most expensive piano in the world.
(Oliver)
We need him tonight.
We need him now.
Everyone is talking at once.
Immediately.
Fritz Brandes.
A Grand Imperial.
Can you please call someone?
It's an emergency.
(Isa) You have nowhere...
Understood.
I regret,
to hear that. Thank you.
I have
a wing raised.
Grand Imperial. In the auditorium
the adult education center.
(Jan) Across the street. We can get him.
(Oliver) They're letting us in.
- Yes.
We are on the way.
See you soon.
Come on, I'll meet you outside!
(Be, call)
Yes!
We have
found a Grand Imperial.
We'll bring him here immediately.
- Gut.
Yes, I feel sorry for everything
also very sorry, and I...
Piano tuner?
Yes. - Come with me! - Where to?
To the new wing!
Piano?
- Yes, hello!
Here it is.
(Man) We were just about to
send back to the depot.
I need you to sign a liability waiver
have it signed.
Of course. - (Piano tuner)
Hello? Stop!
(screaming)
Stop!
You can't do that.
- What?
This is not a
Pub instrument.
The transport ruins it.
I have no choice.
Do you have 40,000 marks to spare?
That will cost the repair.
I don't have time, really!
Whatever the problem,
this is not the solution!
What is the solution?
(Voice) Show me
the other wing.
The wing is broken!
Show me the wing.
Please.
Do you want it now
or not?
(Voice) Okay.
- (Vera) Okay. Good.
(Announcement) "At the start of the performance, please
I the ladies and gentlemen
of the orchestra and the
actors on stage."
Piano sounds
And?
- We can fix it.
But for this room...
Said:
"Show me the wing."
We can fix it.
- But not to a Grand Imperial.
This is a rehearsal piano.
- We are piano tuners.
We don't perform miracles.
Ring
Dramatic instrumental sounds
swell.
The sounds fade away.
He won't play.
The sounds
swell again.
(Announcement) "The ladies and gentlemen of the
Orchestra
and the actors onto the stage."
Operations
The music stops,
Vera gasps.
Vera sobs quietly.
She sobs loudly.
She takes a deep breath.
Knock
(Fritz, muffled)
Is that you, you idiot?
No.
(Fritz)
Let me in.
(Be)
Was?
Everyone is looking for you.
What are you doing here?
He doesn't perform, I
don't have the money.
Then the agreement applies.
So you give up?
I wish they had
the 10,000 DM was given.
So what? What do you want
then do with it?
I have some ideas.
Vera laughs.
You know,
that I hate you, right?
Yes. - But if anyone
finds a way, then you.
He will not perform.
- Make him do it.
How should I get him to do that? - I
I don't know. Improvise, improvise!
Look at us.
I...
I look good.
Vera laughs quietly.
Na klar.
But you...
You are Vera Brandes.
Not even 20 years and already
a real jazz bunny.
(Fritz)
They're coming tonight.
Who?
- Mom and dad.
Have me
asked for tickets.
He wants to see me fail.
Yes.
Why are you
suddenly so nice?
Because I
hate even more than you.
Charged piano music
Quiet babble
(Voice) That's it.
How long do you need
to repair this?
Five hours.
And "Lulu" starts soon.
Can you work,
while they play?
During the performance we are supposed
repair a grand piano from "Lulu"?
Yes, back here.
You have one hour between opera and
Concert. They can test it there.
No.
We can try.
More intense piano music
Thanks.
The music
gives way to street noise.
(Mann)
Hey! Watch out!
Calm piano music
sets in.
Hey.
Everything OK?
Will Keith play?
- Perhaps.
Did you get any sleep?
- Maybe I'm sleeping right now.
Don't we all do that?
You asked him,
why he does this.
Why he tours this way.
Far away from home, with the
small car, with his back.
Do you know why we
stopped at the airport?
To return the tickets,
which the organizer sent,
so that we can make money
for the tour.
Sigh of surprise
Artists like Keith
diving maybe
once per generation.
But that
The world doesn't seem to care.
Music for the museum, dead.
Nobody comes.
Is that why Columbia dropped him?
- They want standards.
He is a risk.
In America, business is eating
the artist.
Or?
In Europe we still have
some respect for them.
You mean it is American
Music for a European audience?
It is music
for people with ears.
Michael laughs.
Vera gasps.
(Keith)
Who 's there?
Vera Brandes.
What happened to you?
- I'm sorry, I...
Did you sleep?
I have two days
didn't sleep.
Have you found a piano?
- I'll have the broken one repaired.
That won't help. - Wait,
if you don't play,
then that was it for me
in the music business.
Well, then I'll do you a favor.
- I beg you.
You beg me,
to fail.
I beg you to save me.
If you don't play,
that was the end of my life.
Sorry, I can't.
Fuck!
(Keith)
Was?
Can I ask you one thing?
Since when do you play on expensive
Grand Imperial concert grand pianos
with nine extra buttons?
Do you know what I believe?
I think you're spoiled.
You are afraid.
Inwardly you doubt,
whether you can do it.
Playing a note without knowing exactly
how it will sound.
To really improvise.
Perhaps
you should thank me.
Maybe I can offer you
an opportunity.
An opportunity for what?
To go new ways.
How old are you?
- You're not 25.
I am 18.
- An 18-year-old child.
And you walk through the world,
as if people owed you something.
I only organized one concert.
- On a broken grand piano.
With repaired pedal.
- Pretty cheeky.
I have some experience
with narcissistic men.
Can you in Cologne
drink the tap water?
Yes.
In order.
Only for you,
don't forget that.
For me?
When the pedal is repaired.
You play?
- If it's tuned.
You will play?
And if you leave.
- Yes.
Yes!
You're still here.
(radio announcer)
"In the Cologne Opera plays
Keith Jarrett today
a solo concert.
The young organizer
Vera Brandes says,
It is not jazz that Keith is playing right now,
but everything possible."
Today, 11 p.m. at the Opera,
directly after "Lulu".
Dramatic orchestral music
#Come in
in die Menagerie!#
#You proud gentlemen,#
#you fun-loving women.#
#She was created,#
#To instigate mischief,#
#to lure,#
#to seduce,#
#to poison#
#and to murder!#
Loud rumbling
#Without anyone noticing.#
The Opera
continues to run in a subdued manner.
(Michael) It was a
weird dinner.
Like a wake for a disaster,
that was about to happen.
Vera tried to breathe,
Thoughts raced through her head.
Will the piano be repaired in time?
Will anyone come at all?
And Fritz...
Fritz had with this
new feeling to fight.
Something that feels
of love.
Jan kept thinking about the guy,
with whom Vera had slept.
This kept him awake at night.
And Oliver hoped that the piano fiasco
hadn't spoiled his relationship with Isa.
Who eagerly did so,
as if she didn't notice.
So! I have to go,
look after the wing.
See you there.
(Michael) Keith meanwhile...
- Stop!
It's like a sauna here.
There is something
what I have to tell you.
Don't get angry.
Martin is
with the equipment there.
I told you I don't want that.
- He is recording the concert.
This will not be a concert,
but a shitty car accident.
We have already paid him.
- And? Send him home.
We will not publish it.
Promised.
No thanks. - Our famous
Earthbeeren to Love.
Laugh
Oh God.
- Oh man.
What a
damn disaster.
Laugh
Are you sure that the
the right wing?
(Tuner)
The pedal works.
That's a good thing.
Deep piano tone.
We don't have any more time.
Could you go somewhere?
Hm?
They are no help.
Hey, good evening.Keith Jarrett
is playing a solo concert today.
Right now, in 20 minutes...
Just look at it!
- I already have plans.
Keith Jarrett at the opera!
(Woman, shouting) No thanks.
- In 20 minutes!
Wait.
- No.
This concert will
Change your life.
(One)
Vera! What are you doing here?
I have to fill the hall.
- You don't need any notes.
Why?
I have a few more minutes.
Vera, it's sold out.
- Was?
The concert.
The opera house is sold out.
Sold out?
Yes!
- Come on.
Laugh
babble
gong strikes
(Man) Is there another one coming,
or can you take the jacket away from there?
gong strikes
The time has come.
Let's get it over with.
Melodic clarinet music
Other instruments
set.
Vera moans,
Applause erupts.
Orchestral music swells.
Lied: To Love
Somebody/ Nina Simone
Emotional soul music
#There's a light,#
#a certain kind of light#
#that's never shone on me.#
#I want my whole life to be#
#lived with you,#
#lived with you.#
#There's a way,#
#everybody say,#
#do each and every
little thing.#
#But what good does it bring#
#if I ain't got you,
#ain't got you?#
#You don't know
what it's like.#
#Baby, you don't know
what it's like#
#to love somebody,
love somebody,#
#the way I love you.#
Applause
#In my brain#
#I see your face again.#
#I know my frame of mind.#
#You ain't got to be
so blind.#
#And I'm so blind,#
#so blind.#
#But I'm a woman,#
#can't you see what I am?#
#I live and breathe for you.#
#What good does it do#
#if I ain't got you,#
#I ain't got you?#
#Say, you don't know
what it's like.#
#Baby, you don't know
what it's like#
#to love somebody,#
#to love somebody,#
#the way I do.#
#You don't know
what it's like...#
The song
continues to play subdued.
You go?
There are people you
you haven't offended yet.
I would like to tell you something else,
before you go.
You were
a terrible father.
And I will
all the shit,
that you have done to me,
never forget.
The names,
that you gave me.
But if I
a disappointment,
I did something right.
(Father)
Goodbye.
(Isa) Are you okay?
- Mhm.
I have you
made a drink.
I need vodka.
- Do we have.
I need a whole bottle.
- We have that too.
Where are we going next?
Baden.
Back to Switzerland.
- No...
Oh God.
How do you think it went?
(Manfred) Tonight?
- Yes.
(Manfred)
It was good.
A recording of the Kln Concert
was published in 1975.
Widely
considered a masterpiece,
it became the best-selling
Solo jazz LP in history.
Vera Brandes founded
her own music label.
She published
Hundreds of records,
organized hundreds of
Tours and live concerts.
Same.
Two.
- Three.
They whistle silently
and laugh.
I would say,
that was a disaster.
#What good does it do#
#if I ain't got you,#
#if I ain't got you.#
#Say, you don't know
what it's like.#
#Baby, you don't know
what it's like#
#to love somebody,#
#to love somebody,#
#the way I love you.#
#You don't know
what it's like.#
#Baby, you don't know
what it's like#
#to love somebody,#
#to love somebody,#
#the way I love you.#
The music is real.
Lied:
Gunther/ Dendermonde
Driving instrumental music