Shai Maestro (1987) is one of the most talented pianists of his generation. Born in Israel, he was only 19 when he joined Avishai Cohen’s trio. In 2011, he launched his own trio and has since been building a strong and unique personal identity, demonstrating an impressive musical fluency that makes him and his band one of the most powerful and harmonious groups on today’s scene.

With two albums released on the iconic ECM label and produced by Manfred Eicher, Maestro immediately joined the lineage of celebrated jazz pianists who have defined the label: Keith Jarrett, Paul Bley, and Chick Corea.

The Guesthouse, which he now brings to Portugal, marks a new chapter in his creative journey — one in which he expands his jazz roots, opening up space for a variety of influences and soundscapes, blending acoustic and electronic elements. With short, song-like compositions, the work took shape in his home studio in Spain and was inspired by the rhythms, narratives, and harmonies of artists such as Rosalía, Paul Simon, and John Coltrane. For the first time, Shai Maestro ventured into writing lyrics, revealing a side of his artistry that had remained unexplored until now.

Joining him on this latest voyage are Gadi Lehavi (keyboards, piano, and electronics), Jorge Roeder (bass), and Ofri Nehemya (drums).