THE FIRST FINALIST IS…

Saturday, March 4, four Belgian bands competed for a final spot in the first preliminary round of B-Jazz International Contest.

Teddy’s Brain Drain, Elias D’hooge Trio, Mojo Jojo and Koala Swim (who filled in for Wajdi Riahi Trio at the last minute due to illness) each played a strong set at CC het Spoor in Harelbeke.

No easy task for the jury, consisting of Maarten Weyler, Anneleen Boehme and Geert Decock.

Elias D’hooge Trio is the first band to warm up for the finals at Jazz in ‘t Park in September. Congratulations!

The verdict of the jury:

A piano trio: can it still be original? The compositions that work very stimulating, sometimes very classical
and then again very modern, together with the numerous rhythmic variations, the interaction and excellent communication
between the members of the trio, who know the pieces very well….
All this contributes to a powerful, original set – a story or suite, however you want to call it – that takes you to all kinds of different moods. Fun – rest – excitement – enjoyment … wondering where you’ll be taken. And a bonus: everything is done to perfection. Yes, even the contact with the audience and the attire are important. In short: the ideal final concert of a successful evening yielded a first finalist for B-Jazz 2023: Elias D’hooge Trio.

The next preliminary round will take place on Friday, March 17 at 30CC/Stadsschouwburg during Leuven Jazz.
In the finals from Thursday, September 7 to Saturday, September 9, the two Belgian winners of the preliminary rounds will compete against four international acts.

Thanks to all the musicians, volunteers and the Jazzontspooring for the great cooperation.