Mischa van der Wekken

Dutch saxophonist Mischa van der Wekken (b. 1979) recorded his first album as a leader 'Momentum' early 2008. This features his international quintet, trumpetplayer Eric Vloeimans, and a suite he composed and arranged for saxophone quartet. Mischa studied at the Royal Conservatory of The Hague where he graduated as ‘Master of Music’ in 2004. As a member of the Royal Conservatory Big Band he made five appearances at the North Sea Jazz Festival, featuring guest conductors/soloists like Jim McNeely, Slide Hampton, Kenny Wheeler and Michael Brecker. In 2003-2004 Mischa studied at the Paris Conservatory, where he specifally focused on developing his skills as a composer and arranger. Besides that he took private lessons with the eminent American saxophonist Rick Margitza, who has been based in Paris since a few years. Since he moved back to the Netherlands Mischa has been leading a jazz trio (with guitar & double bass) and his quintet. Besides that he can be heard very regularly in big bands, such as the Dual City Concert Band and the Holland Big Band (cd ‘Happy House’ 2007). He also works in the orchestra’s of major musical productions like Tarzan, Dirty Dancing, Evita and Bubblin’ Brown Sugar.

Gear

Selmer saxophones, Leblanc clarinets

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