Gur Liraz

Gur Liraz (b. 1988, Tel Aviv) is an internationally acclaimed jazz guitarist and composer whose playing combines a deep respect for tradition with a highly personal and contemporary voice. With a diverse musical background and a strong connection to both American jazz and his own cultural roots, he has established himself as a distinctive presence on the European jazz scene.

After graduating from the prestigious Thelma Yellin High School of the Arts, Liraz quickly became an integral part of Tel Aviv’s vibrant jazz community. He performed regularly in leading clubs while also building a reputation as a dedicated and inspiring music educator.

In 2013, he relocated to New York City, where he studied with renowned guitarist Peter Bernstein. During this time, he immersed himself in the city’s rich jazz tradition, further refining his musical language and developing a nuanced, expressive approach to the instrument.

Since settling in Berlin, Liraz has become one of the most in-demand guitarists in the city’s thriving jazz scene. He performs regularly at its leading venues and collaborates with a wide range of internationally recognized artists, contributing to projects that span straight-ahead jazz, groove-based music, and more contemporary directions.

A central part of his artistic activity is his work with the Fuasi Abdul-Khaliq Organ Ensemble, a Berlin-based group that blends the classic sound of 1960s and 70s Hammond organ bands with a modern, groove-oriented aesthetic. With the ensemble, Liraz released the album When We Were Young, which has been met with enthusiastic reception and led to a nomination for the German Jazz Prize 2025.

Alongside his work as a bandleader and sideman, Liraz has maintained a close musical partnership with singer Amanda Becker. With his quartet, he accompanied her on her critically acclaimed debut album You’re Looking at Me, followed by the duo album Ask Me Now in 2023.

His own debut album Squiggles (2023, UBUNTU Music) showcases his original compositions and artistic vision. The record has been praised for its sophistication, lyrical depth, and its subtle integration of jazz language with elements of Jewish musical heritage.

Gur is a two-time recipient of the Neustart Kultur Grant (#hierspieltdiemusik) and was awarded the 2021 GEMA Scholarship. He is a member of the German Jazz Union and GEMA.