The name Volker Schlott represents one of the most renowned saxophonists and flutists in (East) German jazz. Holly Schlott - who has lived as a trans woman since 2018 - founded UNIQUE in 2022, a large ensemble featuring both established instrumentalists (such as Birgitta Flick) and many emerging artists from Berlin’s queer jazz scene (such as Zuza Jasińska and Erik Leuthäuser), which explores the theme of "transgender in jazz" through harmonious vocal passages. At the opening of this year’s "Jazzwoche Berlin" - now taking place for the eighth time - Holly Schlott and her UNIQUE Orchestra will provide the festive kickoff - with free admission!