In September, we're kicking off the season with Gwilym Simcock in September. BJO takes the Welsh composer-pianist in tow past Hnita Jazz Club in Heist-op-den-Berg (10 and 11 September) and The Preacher in Geraardsbergen (12 and 13 September). Simcock will join the orchestra on piano for four nights in a row. Be there and enjoy his beautiful compositions in an intimate club vibe.
Path of Virtues
For the first time, BJO joins forces with the Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent (MSK) and asked young talent Lennert Baerts to lead this project, entitled Path of Virtues. Baerts composed new music, constructed and inspired by the iconic painting by the Van Eyck brothers: the Ghent Altarpiece (or het Lam Gods in Dutch).
Saudade with Naima Joris
Together with the balanced strength and musical ingenuity of Brussels Jazz Orchestra, the singer embarks on a moody journey past the repertoire of a.o. Amália Rodrigues, Leonard Bernstein, Cesária Évora, Abbey Lincoln and Stromae. Although the project title Saudade is usually translated as an emotional mix of loss, missing and love, BJO and Naima Joris approach the term with a vibrant musical energy. After a try-out at the Hnita Jazz Club (14 December 2024 in Heist-op-den-Berg), the album Saudade will be released in March 2025. The festive premiere will take place on 4 March at De Grote Post (Ostend, B) and the release tour will subsequently tour CC Het Bolwerk (9 March, Vilvoorde), HA Concerts (21 March, Ghent) and De Warande (22 March, Turnhout).
In 24-25, BJO shows its most creative side through unparalleled combinations of intimate club concerts, contemplative sound experiences and concerts in theatres and at festivals. we take the audience on a journey in which the orchestra's unbridled creativity, recognisable sound and typical enjoyment of playing are savoured to the full.
- artistic leader Frank Vaganée