Jazz and traditional French music have always been part of Xavier’s life growing up in Paris, think of Richard Galliano meeting Miles Davis. Alongside jazz, Xavier developed a deep appreciation for classical music from an early age, particularly the works of Johann Sebastian Bach, Maurice Ravel and Jean-Philippe Rameau. Their rich harmonies, textures and improvisational spirit continue to influence his musical sensibility and listening approach today.
His first taste of radio came during work experience as a teenager at a major French radio station. Although mostly bringing coffee to star presenters, he experienced his first real musical frisson watching prestigious classical and jazz artists perform live in an intimate studio setting.
After settling in Australia in 2000, Xavier began a broadcasting career with SBS Australia Radio. He produced and presented the youth music program Alchemy before moving into the role of producer and journalist for SBS’s French Program, where he interviewed leading European jazz, pop and classical artists.
One of Xavier’s greatest joys in jazz is its ability to absorb influences from different musical cultures, including the rich musical legacies of France, Scandinavia, South America and the United States. Planet Jazz celebrates the diversity and creativity of modern jazz from around the world, including Australia.
Listen to Planet Jazz HERE