Jazz Project | Joyce Blok

Why Jazz?

Jazz, the whisper of soul in every note

Jazz is a music genre that originated in the African-American communities of New Orleans, Louisiana, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its roots are in blues, ragtime, European harmony, African rhythmic rituals, spirituals, hymns, marches, vaudeville song, and dance music. Since the 1920s Jazz Age, it has been recognized as a major form of musical expression in traditional and popular music. Jazz is characterized by swing and blue notes, complex chords, call and response vocals, polyrhythms and improvisation.

Jazz festivals

My favorite jazz festivals

Canal Jazz Festival

From August 28 to 30, the canals of The Hague transform into a vibrant jazz festival. Floating stages bring the city to life with soulful performances from jazz artists. Visitors can enjoy a diverse program, delicious food and drinks, and the unique waterside atmosphere.There’s room to dance, discover, and connect, with music, with the city, and with each other

Address:

Dunne Bierkade, Den Haag

What I like about it

Jazz in de Gracht is more than a festival, it's a feeling. Every year, The Hague’s canals come alive with the soulful sounds of jazz drifting across the water. I love how the music blends with the city’s historic charm, creating an atmosphere that’s both intimate and electric.

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Jazz at Sea

Jazz at Sea returns to Scheveningen this year! Every Sunday in August, music lovers are welcome at EVE Scheveningen for the best jazz, funk, and soul. From 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, live bands perform at EVE Scheveningen, located at Strandweg 180, while the venue offers delicious drinks and bites. In addition to snacks, you can enjoy a full dinner at EVE Scheveningen.

Address:

Strandweg 180, Den Haag

What I like about it

Jazz at Sea is more than just music — it’s atmosphere. I love how the sound of live jazz blends with the rhythm of the waves and the golden light of a summer evening. Every Sunday in August, Scheveningen transforms into a place where soul, funk, and jazz come alive in the open air. The setting at EVE Scheveningen is intimate yet vibrant, with great drinks, warm company, and the kind of music that makes you feel both grounded and free. It’s not just about listening, it’s about feeling. The improvisation, the groove, the spontaneity, it mirrors the sea itself: unpredictable, expressive, and full of depth. Jazz at Sea is where I reconnect with joy, creativity, and community.

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Jazz Voorburg

Once again, Voorburg proudly presents a fantastic three-day jazz festival, completely free and open to all! Over the years, the culinary focus has gradually shifted, leading to a fresh new name: Jazz in Voorburg. It remains a true celebration of music, offering a rich palette of jazz styles. Food and drinks will be plentiful, provided by a variety of food trucks, local restaurants, and entrepreneurs.

Address:

Van Schagenstraat, Voorburg

What I like about it

Jazz in Voorburg is one of my favorite summer traditions. It’s not just about the music—it’s about the feeling of community, creativity, and celebration that fills the historic streets of the Huygenskwartier. For three days, the Van Schagenstraat transforms into a vibrant stage where jazz comes alive—from bebop and gypsy jazz to Latin grooves and soulful blues.

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