Milan Verbist

At an early age, Milan was introduced to jazz music through his parents. As early as the age of five, Milan started playing the accordion. Around the age of seven, he made the switch to the instrument still closest to his heart, the piano. He studied at the MaGo Academy with classical pianists Arthur Vuye and Nicolas Callot. In 2016, he decided to study at De! Kunsthumaniora in Antwerp to continue his secondary studies, with Jazz Piano as his main instrument. Ewout Pierreux became his teacher for two years. During his time at this school, he started playing in a band and began giving concerts. After graduating from De! Kunsthumaniora, he was admitted to the Royal Conservatory of Antwerp with Erik Vermeulen as principal study teacher. During his time at the conservatory, he had the opportunity to take lessons and masterclasses and play with many prominent Belgian and international jazz musicians. In June 2022, he graduated from the conservatoire with highest distinction.

Today, Milan is a much sought-after musician in and around Antwerp and Belgium. He is bandleader of his own pianotrio and co-leader of several other bands. In 2023, Milan was selected to be part of 'De Twintigers 2023', a selection of ten young, promising musicians selected by public broadcaster Klara (VRT). As part of this, he recorded a video concert with the band Verbist/Baars/Lagatie in their studio 'Toots'. In 2025, Milan will release his first album as a leader.

Some of his favourite pianists include McCoy Tyner, Wynton Kelly, Thelonious Monk, Herbie Hancock, Marcin Wasilewski, Cedar Walton, Keith Jarrett, among others. Milan has played with some renowned musicians: Lionel Loueke, Chris Potter, John Ruocco, Bert Joris, Jakob Bro, John Bishop...

In september 2025, Milan will release his first album with his trio featuring Toon Rumen (bass) and Jens Meijer (drums), on Origin Records.

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