UPDATED 22 October 2024 | Bill Frisell Quartet // Sean Mason // Dutch Concert Bigband // Martha High & The Funky Divas // Anton Goudsmit // Becca Stevens // Mathias Eick Quintet // Sef // Jef Neve & Teus Nobel.
LantarenVenster has just confirmed an exciting line-up of concerts, ranging from soulful ballads to vibrant jazz and everything in between. Read on for the highlights of the upcoming performances.
Bill Frisell Quartet returns to Rotterdam
Starting from 21 October 2024, the iconic guitarist Bill Frisell makes his return to LantarenVenster, bringing with him an impressive ensemble that includes Gregory Tardy on clarinet and tenorsax, Gerald Clayton on piano, and Johnathan Blake on drums. The Bill Frisell Quartet will perform pieces from their latest album Four, a sonic exploration full of mood and texture that has been hailed for its sophisticated layering of instruments. This is their only concert in the Netherlands, so for jazz aficionados, it’s a not-to-be-missed event.
Sean Mason: contemporary jazz with a groove
For fans of jazz with a contemporary twist, the debut of pianist Sean Mason on 24 October 2024 is set to be an exciting evening. His album The Southern Suite draws from his upbringing in North Carolina, blending gospel influences with street blues and Broadway melodies. The result is an ‘exceptionally groovy’ sound that has been making waves. Expect a night of rhythmic energy and heartfelt tunes.
Dutch Concert Bigband: a tribute to West Coast legends
On 2 January 2025, the Dutch Concert Bigband will perform under the direction of Kevin van den Elzen. Featuring special guests Anna Serierse and Ruud Breuls, this concert pays homage to the great bigband tradition of the American West Coast. Expect to hear stunning renditions of works by musical giants such as Henry Mancini, Quincy Jones, and Oliver Nelson. This performance promises to transport audiences to a golden era of bigband music.
Martha High & The Funky Divas: an evening of soul and funk
Also on the horizon is an unforgettable night of soul and funk with Martha High & The Funky Divas on 10 January 2025 at Podium Islemunda. High, who performed alongside legends like James Brown, will celebrate the original soul sisters who changed the music world, including Lyn Collins and Marva Whitney. This concert is a joyful tribute to the powerful women of soul, sure to have the audience dancing along.
Anton Goudsmit and Ton Petit+
On 24 January 2025, the ever-charismatic guitarist Anton Goudsmit will take the stage with his Ton Petit+ ensemble. Known for his electrifying creativity and lively stage presence, Goudsmit’s performance promises to be a thrilling experience for fans of jazz and improvisational music.
Becca Stevens: intimate and moving
Singer-songwriter Becca Stevens brings her warm, soulful sounds to Rotterdam on 26 January 2025. Her newest album Maple to Paper explores themes of loss and regret, offering deeply personal and emotive performances. Stevens’ unique voice and harmonies create an intimate atmosphere, making this a perfect concert for those who appreciate beautifully crafted songwriting.
Mathias Eick Quintet: lullabies for the soul
Fans of modern jazz won’t want to miss Norwegian trumpeter Mathias Eick, who will perform with his quintet on 15 February 2025. Eick’s distinct sound is showcased on his latest album Lullaby, a work that blends jazz with serene, dreamlike compositions. His ability to evoke deep emotion through his music will undoubtedly make this concert one of the highlights of the season.
Sef at Annabel
On 28 February 2025, Dutch hip-hop artist Sef will perform at Annabel, following up on his sold-out concert in LantarenVenster in 2022. Having solidified his reputation as a leading figure in Dutch hip-hop, Sef returns to Rotterdam with a fresh set of songs that reflect his growth as an artist.
Jef Neve & Teus Nobel: a magical duo
Ending the season on 31 May 2025, Belgian pianist Jef Neve and Dutch trumpeter Teus Nobel will take the stage with their duo project Esho Funi. Their performance promises a blend of inventiveness, playful interaction, and exceptional musicality. Together, they create a sound that is as captivating as it is innovative.
Previously announced at LantarenVenster:
Jarrod Lawson - 1 December 2024
Kicking off the concert series is the remarkable Jarrod Lawson. Known for transforming everything he touches into soul, Lawson effortlessly navigates between ballads and funky grooves with his elastic vocal cords and virtuosic piano skills. His music honours legends like Donny Hathaway and Marvin Gaye, without imitation, offering a night of pure soul.
Steven Kamperman’s The Adventures of Prince Achmed - 11 January 2025
Next up, composer Steven Kamperman presents an enchanting film concert, with a special guest appearance by Eric Vloeimans. The event features a live soundtrack for the 1926 silent film Die Abenteuer des Prinzen Achmed, drawing inspiration from 1001 Arabian Nights and oriental traditions. This magical performance promises an unforgettable blend of music and cinema.
Immanuel Wilkins - 18 January 2025
Alto saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins brings his latest project, Blues Blood, to the stage in January. This deeply personal album is inspired by his youth, ancestors, and the bloodlines that connect them. Wilkins' layered musical landscapes will take the audience on a journey that is as emotional as it is musical.
Trombone Ensemble Nabou Claerhout - 16 February 2025
In February, trombonist Nabou Claerhout brings her ensemble of five trombones, guitar, double bass, and drums to LantarenVenster. This ensemble, featuring some of the brightest new talents in jazz, promises to be a sonic dream come true, offering a rich palette of sound.
Kim Richey - 22 February 2025
American singer-songwriter Kim Richey, known for her warm voice and heartfelt storytelling, will bring her unique blend of country, folk, pop, and Americana to Rotterdam. Fans of Gretchen Peters, Lucinda Williams, and Emmylou Harris are in for a treat.
An Evening With The Blues - 22 March 2025
Returning for its 33rd edition, An Evening With The Blues promises a night of blues from around the world. Headliners include Sean 'Mack' McDonald, SaRon Crenshaw, and JJ Thames. Expect a soulful night celebrating the essence of the blues.
Sungazer - 3 April 2025
Sungazer's Against the Fall of Night will make you wonder if jazz could be played on another planet. This duo combines fusion jazz with electronic music, creating a sound that is both futuristic and grounded. After their North Sea Jazz success, this performance is a must-see for fans of Snarky Puppy and Dirty Loops.
Mark Lettieri - 4 April 2025
Mark Lettieri mixes '70s jazz rock with James Brown-inspired funk rhythms. His show, Can I Tell You Something?, promises a night of virtuosic guitar work, humour, and musical precision that will leave the audience enthralled.
The Delines - 5 April 2025
Following their sold-out 2023 show, The Delines return to LantarenVenster with their signature ‘late night countrysoul.’ Amy Boone’s soulful voice, paired with Willy Vlautin’s evocative storytelling, will make for an unforgettable evening.
Kraak & Smaak (Live) - 1 May 2025
Taking place at Rotterdam’s Maassilo, the iconic group Kraak & Smaak is back with their infectious blend of funk, disco, house, and electronic music. Led by vocal powerhouses Berenice van Leer and Ivar Vermeulen, the band will showcase new material that’s sure to get the crowd dancing.
For more information on these concerts and to purchase tickets, visit LantarenVenster’s official website.
About LantarenVenster
LantarenVenster, located at Otto Reuchlinweg 996, is one of Rotterdam's premier venues for music and film. The cultural hub offers an intimate setting for experiencing live performances across genres.