Misha Mengelberg was a Dutch avant-garde jazz pianist and composer who made indelible contributions to the world of free jazz and improvised music. Born on June 5, 1935, in Kiev, Ukraine (then part of the Soviet Union), Mengelberg grew up in a musically rich environment, with his father being the well-regarded conductor Karel Mengelberg. Moving to the Netherlands in his childhood, Misha studied at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague, where he developed his profound understanding of music. His career was marked by a relentless desire to explore the boundaries of musical structure and the spontaneity of improvisation, resulting in a distinctive style that blended elements of jazz, classical music, and avant-garde experimentation.

Throughout his illustrious career, Misha Mengelberg collaborated with a plethora of talented musicians and was a key figure in the European free jazz movement. He co-founded the influential Instant Composers Pool (ICP) Orchestra with drummer Han Bennink and saxophonist Willem Breuker, an ensemble that became synonymous with the Dutch jazz avant-garde scene. Mengelberg's discography is expansive, and his musical output remained vibrant up until his later years, with albums like "Rituals of Transition" and "Two Days in Chicago" showcasing his continuous evolution as an artist. His works such as "Senne Sing Song" and "The Root of the Problem" highlight his skill in bridging complex compositions and whimsical improvisation, leaving an enduring legacy in the world of contemporary jazz. Misha Mengelberg passed away on March 3, 2017, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire and challenge listeners and performers alike.

Genres

Avant-garde Jazz

Dutch Contemporary Classical

Free Jazz

Latest Release

Rituals of Transition

Misha Mengelberg

Ep - 6 Tracks - Released October 12, 2020