About the Band

Welcome to Bigband Blast!

A driven orchestra, spotted on many stages and always standing out. Under the inspiring leadership of saxophonist Nils van Haften, hard work is put into special arrangements and modern compositions. With its own diverse musical projects and soloists, the band creates a unique connection between musicians and audience. The Blast! energy, cheerfulness, musicality, and conviviality result in extraordinary musical experiences!

Blast! is much more than just a band!

Big Band Blast! offers a platform for enthusiastic, talented, and professional musicians. A unique sound with its own special soloists who, together with guests, create a special musical celebration every time.

Blast!’s own concerts and projects

With nearly 40 “Sunday Jazz” editions, Blast! organizes Sunday afternoon concerts in Sliedrecht. All the big names from the jazz and music scene have already been guests, such as Lilian Viera, Ilja Reijngoud, Shirma Rouse, Kim Hoorweg, Carlo de Wijs, Bart van Lier, Rob van Bavel, Ack van Rooyen, Simon Rigter, Rik Mol, Denise Jannah, Ronald Snijders, Ferdinand Povel, Peter Guidi, and many others. In addition, the band has also organized its own Big Band festivals and concerts in venues like the Broadcasting Music Center.

Concerts with a unique Blast! signature

Thanks to all the unique concerts and soloists, Blast! has a unique library of arrangements and compositions, especially from unknown composers. Our concerts are always a special musical journey with inspiration from Pat Metheny to Stevie Wonder, from Aretha Franklin to Buddy Rich, from Stan Kenton to Peter Herbolzheimer.

Professional quality on stage

Through the mix of talented and experienced musicians, Blast! is able to program quickly and flexibly without compromising musical quality. It offers all members/musicians their own challenge. And that is appreciated. Big Band Blast! is the winner of various awards such as the second prize in the top class of the Hoofddorp International Big Band Contest 2021. However, Blast! finds the appreciation and respect of our guest soloists, and of course the enthusiasm of our audience, more important!