Pianist Keith Jarrett’s legendary performance in January 1975 nearly didn’t happen. Based on a true story, Köln 75 follows how the concert was conceived and orchestrated by the efforts of up-and-coming teenage promoter Vera Brandes (played by German actress Mala Emde). Her enthusiasm set her to multitasking—from organizing the concert venue (the Cologne Opera House), promoting the event, and selling the tickets to convincing Jarrett to perform when the Bösendorfer Imperial Grand piano he was promised was nowhere to be found.

Actor John Magaro brings his own intensity to the role of Jarrett, a sublime counterpoint to Emde’s joyful portrayal of the enthusiastic and unstoppable Brandes. Köln 75 captures the compelling, entertaining, and—until now—unknown backstory about Jarrett’s one-hour, entirely improvised concert, which became the best-selling solo album in jazz history.

Tickets

• $9 general admission; $7 MFAH members, students with ID, seniors (65+)

Plan Your Visit

• This screening takes place in Lynn Wyatt Theater in the Kinder Building.
• Parking Information | Museum Hours | MFAH Campus Map