Season 3 Episode 9 Eli Degibri

An internationally recognized saxophonist-composer-bandleader, Eli Degibri possesses a treasure trove of gifts as a musician, boasting a seemingly bottomless fountain of artistry. His prodigious talents have resulted in Eli being honored with the Israeli “Prime Minister Award for Jazz Composition”, and the “Landau Award for Jazz Performance” for his achievements. On his self-released ninth album, “Henri and Rachel,” titled for his parents and recorded on March 19, 2020, just days before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, Eli continues to reveal his ability to convey profound emotions through his intricate language of notes and tones. Joined by his immensely talented Israeli rhythm section, the 44-year-old maestro spins an intimate love story, portraying the personalities and idiosyncrasies of his tight-knit family. As Henri and Rachel’s only child, Eli found himself splitting his attention and energy between his musical production and caring for his aging and ailing parents, both of whom had emigrated to Israel following World War 2. Henri, a native of Bulgaria, passed away in the fall of 2020 after developing cancer; his mother, Rachel, born in Iran, has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and dementia. Although Eli says he was not thinking consciously of them during the development of his newest album - or of his other dedicatees, including his fiancé and best friend - their essence is deeply entwined throughout his compositions. Our wide-ranging conversation gives you a look inside the mind, dedication, heart and music - of this extremely talented, versatile man who Herbie Hancock noted as “the caliber of which is a rare find in jazz today.”