Through a chance meeting on a flight from Berlin to New York, actor Bill Murray and cellist Jan Vogler became fast friends, curious about each others’ artistic worlds and interests. The result of their collaboration is New Worlds, an unexpected and enchanting exploration of the intersection of music and literature. Both the recording and live events feature songs paired with literary readings brought to life with classical music.

New Worlds showcases American values in literature and music, and the bridges artists have built between America and Europe. Twain, Hemingway, Whitman, Cooper, Bernstein, Bach, Piazzolla, Mancini, Gershwin and Foster are some of the writers and composers represented on New Worlds – masters whose distinct voices have influenced generations in America and beyond.

The ensemble performing New Worlds consists of Bill Murray (vocals and narration), Jan Vogler (cello), Mira Wang (violin) and Vanessa Perez (piano) – four musicians whose origins span four different continents.

New Worlds will have its world premiere on June 4 at the Dresden Music Festival, Germany, with its U.S. premiere to follow on July 20 at the Festival Napa Valley, California.

A world tour is confirmed for the autumn 2017 and into 2018 (itinerary below), tying in with the album release on Decca Gold this September, marking Mr. Murray’s first official complete recorded album on a classical music label!

This endeavour between great music and great literature brings together an unexpected collective of creative forces, each at the top of their fields. Jan Vogler’s distinguished career has pushed the boundaries of classical music. He is known for his strong curatorial approach to his music making, combining history, classical tradition and a contemporary style of performance. Bill Murray, in his own right, has forged the most independent career in Hollywood, weaving comedy and depth 8.69into some of the most memorable roles in cinema.