Edgar van Asselt releases collaboration with Ack van Rooyen

Edgar van Asselt announces the release of “Song for Lost Friends,” a live album recorded with the acclaimed Dutch trumpeter and flugelhorn player Ack van Rooyen. The album documents a special performance at Huis Kernhem in Ede, part of a concert series reflecting on the role of jazz musicians with military backgrounds.

“Song for Lost Friends” originated from the concert series “You’re in the Army Now,” dedicated to U.S. jazz musicians who began their careers in the military. This performance was part of the broader “Roadmap to Freedom” initiative, commemorating 75 years of freedom in the Netherlands. The recording took place in the intimate setting of Huis Kernhem, contributing to the character and sound of the album.

Ack van Rooyen (1930–2021) was a leading figure in Dutch and European jazz. Born in Rijswijk, he graduated cum laude from the Royal Conservatory in The Hague and began his career with Het Gelders Orkest. Over the decades, he played with ensembles such as The Ramblers, the SFB Big Band in Berlin, and the United Jazz & Rock Ensemble. Van Rooyen collaborated with major international artists, including Gil Evans, Clark Terry, and Miles Davis, and was known for his lyrical, understated style on trumpet and flugelhorn. He received numerous honors, including the Buma Boy Edgar Prize and the title of Officer in the Order of Orange-Nassau. Van Rooyen was also a dedicated educator, shaping generations of jazz musicians during his tenure at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague.

Edgar van Asselt is a pianist, composer, producer, and cultural entrepreneur known for his versatility and collaborative spirit. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Economics, he dedicated himself to music, studying at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague. Throughout his career, Edgar has led his own projects, organized concert series and festivals, and collaborated with a wide range of international artists. His musical background spans jazz, Latin, and other genres, and he is recognized for his commitment to both performance and music education.

Ack van Rooyen was invited for this project due to his profound musical presence and influence in jazz. His approach-marked by lyricism, honesty, and a minimalist sensibility-brought depth and character to the performance. Van Rooyen’s ability to communicate emotion with clarity and restraint made him an ideal collaborator for this live recording, and his lifelong dedication to music was evident throughout the project.

The album features a selection of jazz standards chosen for their emotional and melodic qualities. These pieces were selected to highlight Ack van Rooyen’s sound and interpretive style, serving as a tribute to the tradition of storytelling and swing in jazz.

For further information about “Song for Lost Friends,” please contact Jan Fritz at Jazzmedia & More.

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