Samā
With this duo Samā formed in 2023, Albert Sanz and Sara Dowling have unearthed a unique energy using the piano, cello, and two voices.
Although both musicians come from the jazz tradition, they also share a deep affection for classical music, Brazilian song, contemporary jazz, and improvisation. They effortlessly and closely blend these influences.
Emotion and passion will always be at the heart of their music. For this reason they decided to call this project Samā, an arabic word that refers to a Sufi ceremony of music, dance and prayer, and also literally means “to listen”.
The duo began their journey by delving into the music of Albert Sanz’s group, releasing two live recordings—A mi lado and Lovin’ Tone. Their exploration soon expanded, taking on the challenge of adapting a carefully chosen selection of Antonio Carlos Jobim’s works to suit the unique dynamic of this special duo setting. This culminated in a thoughtfully curated program, recorded live at Fundación Juan March in late 2024. The performance was later released in early 2025 as an album titled Sama: The Music of Antonio Carlos Jobim, Live in Madrid. In this project, their voices intertwine beautifully, enhanced by fresh, intricate arrangements for cello, piano, and vocals.