Brussels Jazz Orchestra — © Marco Mertens
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The Torenconcerten, an initiative of the municipality of Schoten, has again succeeded in bringing some big names to Schoten. Classical music lovers can dream away on Friday 25 February with the Polish virtuosos Kacper Nowak and Lucas Krupinski. On Saturday 26 February, De Kaekelaar’s stage will only be just big enough for the Brussels Jazz Orchestra to play. Punishment: the municipality of Schoten offers these top performers to see and hear at work completely free of charge.
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“Very happy that after two canceled winter concerts we can hopefully fill De Kaekelaar with almost full capacity again,” said an optimistic alderman of Culture and organizer Charlotte Klima (N-VA).
The Polish cellist Kacper Nowak is considered one of the great promises of his generation. He plays every note with the highest form of musical art and controlled virtuosity. Together with Polish master pianist and soul mate Lucas Krupinski, he captivates the audience with works by Chopin, Prokofiev and Popper.
–Kacper Nowak and Lucas Krupinski. — © rr
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The Brussels Jazz Orchestra (BJO), which will be celebrating its thirtieth anniversary next year, is the kind of orchestra that likes to exceed expectations. “We opt for the highest level by composing original music and creating unique arrangements”, says artistic director Frank Vaganée.
“Inventive and passionate making music is our trademark. BJO brings jazz with a dynamic, orchestral sound, rooted in the jazz tradition. Moreover, our musicians are all excellent soloists, which creates room for improvisation. We enjoy working with other musicians.”
Nathalie Loriers
In the corona period, BJO still played in New York alongside Wynton Marsalis, Dianne Reeves, Chucho Valdés, Cécile McLorin Salvant and Richard Galliano. Hopefully CC Schoten’s technicians have enough microphones available because BJO is coming to Schoten in full big band strength with its ‘Footprint’ program. The musicians, including the excellent pianist Nathalie Loriers, browse through their rich oeuvre.
Footprint contains all original compositions, often commissioned by artists who know the orchestra well. The set list includes work by Kenny Werner, Enrico Pieranunzi, Pierre Drevet and Lode Mertens, among others.(jaa)
Tower concerts: free, but pre-registration is required. Torenconcerten website with the option to register for free
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