When you think of the harp, jazz or modern music might not be the first things that come to mind—but Brandee Younger is changing that perception. This bold American harpist is carving out a successful and groundbreaking new role for the harp as a leading instrument. The Jazz Orchestra of the Concertgebouw has invited Younger for a one-time, unique collaboration to push the boundaries of big band jazz.
Harpist Brandee Younger is a powerful force in contemporary jazz and has long outgrown the title of “Rising Star,” awarded to her in 2020 by DownBeat magazine. In 2022, she became the first woman of color to be nominated for a Grammy in the category of Best Instrumental Composition. In recent years, she has collaborated with artists such as Lakecia Benjamin, Robert Glasper, Makaya McCraven, Common, Pharoah Sanders, Ravi Coltrane, Ron Carter, Lauryn Hill, and John Legend. Her latest and seventh album, Brand New Life, is a tribute to the boundary-breaking harpist Dorothy Ashby.
The Jazz Orchestra of the Concertgebouw is made up of world-class Dutch jazz musicians. As one of Europe’s top big bands, it has won multiple Edison Awards and previously collaborated with major artists like Chick Corea, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Joshua Redman, and James Carter. The orchestra is dedicated to making over a century of jazz accessible to new generations, while also looking forward by partnering with contemporary jazz musicians from around the world.
This concert is part of Big Sounds Amsterdam.
Big Sounds = Big fun! That’s the spirit of Big Sounds Amsterdam, a biennial festival that shines a spotlight on large ensembles. With room for improvisation, daring ideas, and sounds from across the globe, Big Sounds is at the forefront of a new era in large ensemble music. From October 1 to 12, 2025, you’ll hear Big Sounds all across Amsterdam!
Big Sounds Amsterdam is a collaboration between the Jazz Orchestra of the Concertgebouw, Bimhuis, Meervaart, the Concertgebouw, Paradiso, ZO Jazz Stage, Kompaszaal, Felix Meritis, and the Conservatorium van Amsterdam.