Trombonists, they are special people. Because it is an instrument that you have to work hard on. Have to work on it together. And that is what is special. Trombonists always look for connections and have an open mind. As a collective in orchestras, they form a solid foundation. The collective is the highest good for trombonists. That is precisely the difference with other instrumentalists… traditionally the soloists.
The result is that training to become a trombonist does not only focus on the individual. But also on the collective. And there were a few people in Rotterdam who have understood that well. That started in the late eighties and early nineties. A special group of trombonists came together at the conservatory… there George Wiegel and later Ben van Dijk, Bart van Lier and Michel Becquet started working on a unique group of talents. Together they started to provide the trombone as an instrument with new initiatives. And in between, as if that were very normal, the men ended up in prominent positions in the Dutch orchestras and ensembles.
The collective has had a name since 2001 and has been called the New Trombone Collective. This is where the ‘spirit’ of the real trombonist lies. Further developing the instrument together and inspiring talent together. The close-knit group of friends is active in various areas. They do everything they can to make the trombone and her music known to the widest possible audience. Successfully. Due to their unprecedented passion and enthusiasm, they won prizes such as the Elly Ameling Prize and the ITA Award. They also realized beautiful projects such as the European trombone festival Slide Factory, the Jong Trombone Collective, the tribute to Urbie Green, a music publishing company, cooperation in the tour of the American Sufjan Stevens, Bryce Dessner and Nico Muhly and their own App. Partly due to the close collaboration with composers, the New Trombone Collective comes up with surprising combinations of instruments, styles and playing techniques. Without losing sight of the existing jazz, modern or classical repertoire.
Combining busy careers with the New Trombone Collective is of course a challenge. But they are also creative in this and the men help each other. This means that they meet at least twice a year for special and inspiring projects at home and abroad. No concert is predictable or the same, especially the surprise, creativity and innovation: you can count on that. Do you have the chance to see them live? Do not hesitate. Make sure you’re there!
