THE STORY OF JAZZ MUSIC THTOUGH THE LIFE OF A MASTER: "I WAS LISTENING MY FATHERS JAZZ RECORDS AND I THOUGHT - THAT'S WHAT I WANT TO DO"
Jazz Music in Our Society
The sound of live jazz music emanating from Brussels bars and other European cities is becoming increasingly popular in modern times, despite the plethora of music listening technologies available to us. Bart De Nolf, head of the Jazz section at the Brussels Royal Academy, remarked that people nowadays have a deeper connection with music than ever before, thanks to the variety of music apps and technologies. Nevertheless, the growing number of visitors at live jazz music performances in Brussels and Antwerp bars indicates a resurgence of interest in live jazz music.
Bart in his teaching class at the Brussels Royal Academy. Captured by: Aistis Pucinskas
Meet Bart De Nolf
Bart is a double bassist who started his musical journey at the age of 14 and received classical training at the Koninklijk Conservatorium Gent. During a music camp, he crossed paths with John Clayton, who later became a mentor and close friend, guiding Bart towards jazz music. Since 1993, Bart has been teaching at the Koninklijk Conservatorium Brussel and has also been part of the faculty at the Taipei International Summer Jazz Academy. His career includes collaborations with renowned jazz figures and Belgian bands like the SADI Quartet. He has toured extensively worldwide, performing with artists ranging from Vaya Con Dios to Toots Thielemans. As a freelancer with a diverse repertoire, he is part of various bands, including the Bas Bulteel Trio and the Brussels Jazz Orchestra. Currently, he also serves as the head of the Jazz section at the Brussels Royal Academy.
Bart's Connection With Jazz Music
"When I was young, I attended music school, and there was a time when I wanted to quit because it bothered me. My father had a great collection of jazz records. The first time I listened to these records, I felt deep inside - That's what I really want to do!" Bart recalled, describing his initial passion for jazz music. "I knew that I wanted to play jazz; I just didn't know where to start." Bart began immersing himself in the company of musicians, gaining experience and learning from them. Appearing to music camp for the first time Bart met the person who changed his life - John Clayton. The American jazz and classical music double bassist was invited to coach young students at the music camp. There John introduced Bart with the introduced him to the technique and intricacies of jazz music. Bart De Nolf still keep in touch with John Clayton and invites him to perform in Belgium.
Bart in his office at the Brussels Royal Academy. On the left side you can see the poster of his mentor John Clayton. Captured by: Aistis Pucinskas
The Origin of Jazz Music
All indications and stories lead to one location where jazz likely originated - New Orleans, between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The city's blend of cultures was reflected in its music. Community events and the profound African-American experience played a significant role. It's no secret that African-American people, who began their musical journey with church gospels, are the originators of jazz music, which later evolved into the improvisational genre. "During hard times, I believe jazz was also a form of expression and resistance against racism and social inequality," observed Bart. "Jazz music allows full freedom of improvisation, and everyone can interpret it in their own way. It's not about skin color; it's about something we can all understand - music," declared the head of the jazz section.
Bart's Message
When asked what message he would send to the world, Bart replied, "Currently, a lot of things are happening in the world, and I think it's important to be respectful to each other, especially to young people because they're our future."
