Jazz in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has a thriving jazz music scene with lots of Jazz bars and music venues. Being a jazz enthusiast one of my must dos was going to a jazz club. It’s amazing how timely the Netherlands operates. At 5pm bars and outdoor tables start filling up, by 10pm nightlife like jazz bars and clubs open up. When I think of "Jazz club" I immediately imagine Tiana's Palace from Disney's Princess & the Frog: warmly lit, cosy, and everyone having a good time.

Why do I love Jazz?

Being a musician myself, I’ve always loved being around music. I played a classical instrument but strangely my music taste ventured far from classic. Over the past I had a EDM phase, R&B phase and Rap phase(specifically UK drill and trap). I listened to classic when the mood called but strangely I always default back to Jazz. I felt at most peace when listening to Jazz. In fifth grade remember being giddy when I discovered I could turn my very own bedroom into an Italian cafe with a YouTube playlist. 

The first time I heard real jazz was Bill Evans. I was speechless when I first heard him. It was unlike any music I’ve ever heard. I was awed at how someone could compose such a brilliant melody that with the same seven notes. From the alternations, breaks, chops -everything- was perfect. I love how Jazz is unscripted, just go with the flow type. You feel, not follow. There’s something about the rhythmic, mellow music that draws you in.

Throughout my time in the Netherlands I visited multiple jazz clubs and concert halls. Here’s my personal review of each performance.

Greenfield @Jazz Cafe Alto

As one of popular places, there was already a queue outside the door when I arrived. The place was very packed with barely any room to step around. The overall feel was very cosy, rustic and authentic. There were old jazz posters plastered on the walls, small decor throughout. The vibrant red curtains also added to the classic feel. Throughout the whole show the four performers had incredible chemistry. With one nod, hand gesture they knew what to do. Even within the tiny stage they managed to deliver such an exceptional performance. The bassist especially knew how to orchestrate the audience. For the first half it was a sit down, formal listening session while the second half people danced to the music.

It was amazing to see the energy the audience gave the musicians, vice versa. I loved seeing the small but special gestures like when someone asked a stranger to dance, when a couple romantically pulled the other closer with a scarf. This was what I wanted: Good music, good vibes. Everyone just having a good time.

Kim Verme @Bourbon Street

If Jazz Club Alto was more instrumental this place catered more towards live music. With a bigger stage and stand and sip atmosphere, it felt like an American bar. There was a disco ball in the center, with old instruments hung across the walls. The whole place was dimly lit, glowing with red and blue hues. All the music they played were American oldies. The singer had a very charming husky voice. It was hilarious when a group of six foot grown men started singing along to Kung Fu Fighting. Everyone was nursing a drink, vibing to the music. Overall Bourbon Street had similar vibes of theatre core with live music.

Tribute to Chet Baker @Het Concertgebouw

Chet Baker. One of the best trumpeter & jazz singers of all time. How he managed to be good at both puzzles me. His fey and fragile tone in playing and singing is distinctive. This was also my first time at the Het Concertgebouw. From the golden ceiling archs to the luscious red carpet the concert hall felt like a miniature palace. It seemed grand yet even even the furthest seats had a great view of the stage.

Throughout out show the lights changed color based on the song to set a certain mood. Blue for Almost Blue, pink for My Funny Valentine. Trumpeter Jan van Duikeren was astonishing, especially with the soft parts and improv. Marcel Veenendaal's voice was high pitched and soothing, almost angelic. Based on the tempo and mood of the song I would imagine different scenes: a man slowly treading along after a long day’s work, a lively party, or a lover whispering their confession.

Throughout the entire time I couldn’t stop smiling. I loved every single second of it. After the concert I came out to be greeted by a beautiful pink sunset. With jazz and sunsets being my favorite things, this was easily one of the best nights in Amsterdam.

Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 & Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto @Het Concertgebouw

Of course I had to revisit the Het Concertgebouw for a classical piece. Although I played a wind instrument, I like the sound of strings better. I love how the deep, harmonious chords melt together. Yet for this concert the flutist was spectacular. Her pitch and notes were on point. It was amazing how Marc Bouchkov managed to flick the violin strings effortlessly yet so precisely. It was my first time hearing the iconic Symphony No. 5 in person, so it was familiar yet refreshing. I had flashbacks of my brief orchestra days and I realized how much I've been missing out. That feeling of harmonizing with the whole body, hearing your instrument blend with the others. That rush of adrenaline when playing the peak notes or delicately ending a measure. Maybe I'll start playing again. I'm glad I came back for a classical performance.

Reflection

Overall this whole experience was a great opportunity to reflect how much I appreciate and am passionate about music. It inspired me to attend more live music back home. There's just something about listening to music with headphones versus listening in person. And who knows? Maybe I'll try a punk rock concert next time.