Saskia Laroo

I've always been enchanted by jazz for its embodiment of freedom and creativity. My journey into its world began at sixteen, in 1975, when I received a cassette of "Someday My Prince Will Come." Despite its simplicity and beauty, and my initial attempts to replicate it, I was sceptical, having pegged jazz as music for the older generation while I was immersed in rock's current hits. However, my perspective started to shift when I embarked on learning jazz standards to secure gigs. It was then I was introduced to "Miles in Paris," featuring the prodigious Tony Williams, a mere 17, on drums. Their unconventional approach to melody—skirting around it more than playing it directly—piqued my curiosity about the genre's depth and creativity. My conversion was sealed with the gift of the LP "L'Ascenseur pour l'échafaud." Miles Davis's trumpet spoke directly to me, infusing so much emotion and narrative into each note that it transcended mere music. His sound enchanted me, turning every listening experience into something profound and personal. The pinnacle of my jazz journey was attending a live concert by Miles Davis. The magic of that evening felt almost like a spell had been cast over me, forever solidifying my love for jazz. To those new to the genre, I advise diving into the myriad of sounds and styles that jazz offers. Beyond the popular tracks and artists lies a rich tapestry of music waiting to be explored. Let the vibes guide you through this diverse landscape, and you may find yourself as captivated as I was.