Xavier Belin & Baptiste Poulin

Contemporary jazz — Formed through the chemistry between saxophonist Baptiste Poulin and pianist Xavier Belin, "Crossing" explores the creative intimacy of legendary duos.

Born from the encounter between saxophonist Baptiste Poulin and pianist Xavier Belin, "Crossing" is a French jazz duo. This formation has been influenced by numerous legendary duos such as Lee Konitz and Martial Solal, or Brad Mehldau and Joshua Redman.

"Crossing" takes us on a musical journey where interaction, listening, and creativity lie at the heart of their playing. Their music is an invitation to enter the creative intimacy of two kindred musicians.

"Crossing" can be translated as an intersection, that of two roads or even two ideas. The result of an intersection is always something entirely original.

"Crossing" is the meeting between the highly syncopated, motivating, and steady playing of Xavier and the virtuosic, lyrical, and shifting style of Baptiste. It is the crossing between the warm timbre of the saxophone and the round, percussive tone of the piano.

The blending of the lush, green memories of the Burgundian countryside with the floral, luminous landscapes of Martinique.

Following the release of their debut album last January (CHOC Jazz Magazine, Grand Prize of the Jury at the Jazz à Oloron 2026 springboard, Jazz Migration 2025 finalist), the duo will present their repertoire on October 18th. As part of the Jazz sur Seine 2026 festival.

Line-up: Xavier Belin: piano; Baptiste Poulin: alto saxophone. The 38Riv Jazz Club is an intimate venue in the heart of the Marais (38 rue de Rivoli, Paris 4th), dedicated to jazz and improvised music.