Free jazz in Westerpark, Amsterdam

Amsterdam locals not going abroad for the Summer will be able to enjoy free jazz sessions every week in the Weterpark. Organizers Niels Nieuborg (34) and Guido van Dieren (36) have organized veterans and newcomers on the jazz scene to perform at the North Sea Jazz Club 'Summer Sessions'. The Club will have live jazz every Wednesday to Sunday between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. Free performances will be given by young, promising artists. Once a week, there will be paid shows by big names in the industry, such as Lalah Hathway, Mike Stern & Bill Evans, Matt Bianco and Roy Ayers. The organizers saw the need for a stage to showcase new up-and comers in the jazz world, they tell Het Parool. Guido and Niels started this project last year. They are both music lovers, and work in the industry. They both work as music programmers in the North Sea Jazz Club. Guido is also a DJ with the name:DJ Thelonious. There has been a lot of enthusiasm within the jazz community for this event. Many musicians have signed up to play. The fact that this event takes place in the Summer doesn't worry the organizers. They are confident that it will attract many visitors. Many locals do not go on holiday, and they don't have to worry about paying expensive festival-prices. There are festival-worthy names on the roster, as well as some must-see newcomers. Niels Nieuborg thinks everyone should see Esther van Hees on the 16th of August. She comes from the Conservatorium, which is a music school in Amsterdam.