Originally from Germany, Konrad Koselleck has been living in Amsterdam for 15 years. A musician, arranger and instructor, Konrad has participated with numerous musical collaborations, including work with the dynamic and boundary-pushing Ricciotti Ensemble. His latest project is the Konrad Koselleck Big Band. Allison Mistica ask him about his musical history in Holland, and the future and success of his projects.

Allison Mistica asks Konrad about his musical history and the future and success of his own projects.

Konrad Kosellek

As I stepped into Konrad's humble flat, just outside Amsterdam Centrum, I immediately noticed a large musical case on the floor, evidence Konrad said, of the work he was putting in towards his next performance. Konrad's Band had a rehearsal on Friday (9 November), in preparation for their performance at the Sugar Factory in Amsterdam on Monday (12 November). Despite his full schedule, he made me feel welcome and was pleased to talk about his music.

Why the Netherlands?

Fifteen years ago, Konrad said that he applied to several schools in Holland, Germany and Austria. However, he felt that there was more opportunity to study music, specifically jazz, in the Netherlands. His hope had been to study jazz at the Hilversum Conservatorium. Being the seat of radio and television entertainment in the Netherlands, Konrad was attracted to the fact that many radio musicians taught at Hilversum. The Conservatorium also stressed a very traditional theory of jazz, which appealed to him. Despite a low acceptance rate, just 20 percent at the time, Konrad was offered a place.

Teaching - collaboration - inspiration

Now, as professional musician, Konrad also contributes to the Dutch world of music education. He has taught at DJAM, a private school for jazz and light music in Amsterdam, and the Amsterdamse Theater Academie.

KKBB with Ellen ten Damme. Photo by Claudia Hoedemaker.

When I asked if he faced any challenges as an expat teacher, Konrad said, "I don't see myself as a foreign teacher. Having studied in Dutch music schools, I feel completely Dutch in this respect."

Over the years, he has given piano lessons and musical theory lessons, and finds great satisfaction in teaching students how to collaborate and play together. Most importantly, the motivation of his own students inspires him. Referring to his time at DJAM, Konrad said, "I admire musicians who listen to an innate desire to learn, rather than feeling compelled to study music by outside influences."

Working with the Ricciotti Ensemble

Konrad spoke with great enthusiasm about musical collaboration with the Ricciotti Ensemble. He has been working with the orchestra since 1999. "They invite me to write for every tour," he said.

Konrad stresses the diversity of the Ensemble’s work, from classical to pop. "What I like about the Ricciotti Ensemble is their inspiration to play in almost any venue," said Konrad quoting train stations, prisons and even a field of cows. "These musicians take the music, and not themselves, seriously and do not travel with an air of arrogance," he said.

The Konrad Koselleck Big Band

So what about his most recent work with his own Big Band? What is the origin of this orchestra? "Luck," said Konrad. "In 2004, a friend of mine was throwing a big party and wanted a band to play. They asked specifically for professionals and not amateurs. I was given a budget to find seasoned musicians."

Now the 'Konrad Koselleck Big Band', which combines cabaret, jazz and even classical, has earned a substantial following and plays a scheduled show once a month at the Sugar Factory in Amsterdam. Several big-name entertainers, including Ellen ten Damme, have been drawn to the Big Band and add a cabaret effect as they blend action with the music.

Ellen ten Damme will perform again with the Big Band on 12 November at the Sugar Factory in Amsterdam. Performance: 9pm, cost:  EUR 9.

Konrad Koselleck's website

The Konrad Koselleck Big Band performs Every second Monday of the month at the Sugar Factory, Lijnbaansgracht 238 . Online: www.sugarfactory.nl
Time: 9:00pm; Price: EUR 9.

For more information visit, What's on: music, concert and dance listings.

 9 November 2007

[Copyright Expatica 2007]