Jazz Avond

Chris Cheek and Jorge Rossy’s musical journey began in the late ’80s at Berklee College of Music, where a remarkable chemistry sparked both a lifelong friendship and an enduring artistic partnership. Two of the Netherlands’ leading musicians—pianist Rembrandt Frerichs and bassist Mark Haanstra—later joined forces with them to form a brand-new European Quartet. These concerts marked Cheek and Rossy’s first performances in the Netherlands in more than twenty years, and audiences immediately felt the spark of something special.

Widely regarded as part of the celebrated “generation of four” tenor players, alongside Joshua Redman, Seamus Blake, and Mark Turner, Chris Cheek occupies a unique place among his peers. Many saxophonists
of his generation point to him as one of the most distinctive, lyrical, and quietly influential voices in contemporary jazz. Renowned for making the saxophone sing with vocal expressiveness, Cheek has been sought out by luminaries such as Kurt Rosenwinkel, Bill Frisell, and Charlie Haden.

Drummer Jorge Rossy, famous for his pivotal role in the Brad Mehldau Trio, is recognised as one of the most influential drummers of his Ame. His partnership with Cheek goes back to their student days at Berklee and has continued across decades and albums, beginning with Cheek’s debut I Wish I Knew.

Although Rembrandt Frerichs has often worked with historical instruments such as the fortepiano, he chose a fresh sonic path for this project, turning to the Steinway and Fender Rhodes to shape the ensemble’s sound. Mark Haanstra is a versatile bass player whose recognisable tone and flexibility make him a sought-after musician by artists, ensembles, and orchestras. His melodic playing—grounded in a deep sense of groove— supports and propels the music at every moment.

This new quartet performs an entirely original repertoire, leaving generous space for improvisation and collective exploration.