MINDTHEGAP Trio is a Romanian experimental jazz band, born solely out of a long-standing passion for music and jazz. Drawing from a wide range of influences, their unique style is defined by a complex melodic sound with touches of film music, nu jazz, fusion and progressive rock.

A lifetime passion for music drove founder and composer Ștefan Ormenișan to form this young and fervent group, combining jazz and rock influences to create an immersive, atmospheric cinematic sound.

Ștefan is an award-winning Romanian creative who always longed to play in a jazz band and give life to his music. As a great enthusiast of jazz and rock music since early life, he never stopped being surrounded by music, even if his successful career took him into a different space of art.

Being his main source of inspiration and breathing jazz daily, Ștefan decided to create his first trio, trying to express his feelings and musical beliefs. That’s how MINDTHEGAP Trio started, by inviting two professional musicians, Alex Cioată (bass) and Tamas Iszlai (drums) to join this new musical project.

Since their formation, MINDTHEGAP Trio has quickly gained recognition, performing at prestigious events like Gărâna Jazz Festival, Electric Castle, DWMT Sessions, Jazzup Nobile and even within the historic walls of the Fortified Church in Biertan. Their music is a bold expression of genre fusion and pure passion, offering listeners an immersive experience that transcends boundaries.

Formed by musicians with bold and unique perspectives, MINDTHEGAP Trio is constantly exploring new sonic landscapes. Their compositions are created with a focus on profound symbol and dynamic interplay, allowing them to push boundaries and create an ever-changing musical experience. Whether performing on stage or in the studio, the trio's ability to mix different sounds together results in immersive performances that are both unexpected and captivating.

Influenced by global sounds, early electronic music, and the distinctive melodicity of the Scandinavian jazz, MINDTHEGAP Trio brings a unique eclectic, atmospheric sound that reflects their passion for bold musical expression like no other.

MINDTHEGAP Trio - Music made in Transylvania.

Ștefan ORMENIȘAN - piano, keyboards / Alex CIOATĂ - bass / Tamas ISZLAI - drums.

Ștefan’s journey with music began at the age of six when he first sat at the piano. Drawn to the energy of jazz and rock, he formed his first band at sixteen, later expanding his musical range as a pianist and guitarist in various projects. Though his career took him into the world of design and interior decor, music remained a constant presence, waiting for the right moment to take center stage once again.

In 2021, that moment has come. Fueled by the lifelong passion for jazz and sonic experimentation, Ștefan founded MINDTHEGAP Trio, bringing together vintage and modern synths alongside with classical piano and Rhodes keys to craft the band's distinct cinematic atmosphere and progressive music. His compositions blend texture and emotion, pushing boundaries while staying true to the raw essence of jazz.

A versatile talented artist with a deep-rooted passion for music and exploration, Alex balances his role as a violinist with the State Philharmonic in Târgu Mureș (Translvania) and his explorations in jazz, rock, and experimental music. He started at the age of 7 by learning the roots of music and the violin inspired by his family musical background. After graduating from the local musical school, he moved forward becoming a student at the University of Music in Cluj-Napoca, where he developed his skills for violin and chord based instruments. His journey through multiple musical landscapes led him to the bass guitar, where he discovered new expressive territories and a playground for improvisation.

With MINDTHEGAP Trio, Alex shapes intricate and fluid basslines and solos that bring depth and movement to the band’s evolving sound. He is also an active part of the composing side of the band, defining the rhythm section of the trio. Whether on stage or in the studio, his playing is driven by a keen ear for details and a continuous pursuit of sonic exploration.

With over 15 years of experience in live and studio performance, Tamas is a dynamic drummer whose versatility spans across jazz, rock, and beyond. He first picked up the drumsticks at the age of seven and honed his craft through formal training and relentless practice. After graduating from the local musical school, Tamas joined a jazz private school in Budapest (Hungary) where he learned for more than 2 years the secrets of drum and percussion in jazz music.

His career has taken him across the world as a touring drummer, performing in diverse settings that have shaped his rhythmic approach. He joined MINDTHEGAP Trio since the beginning, being an active part of the composing process. He brings an instinctive, textural presence to the music, building intricate layers of rhythm that are both driving and immersive. Tamas is also a session musician being invited to take part in different projects to play rock, jazz and classical music.