Change ensemble is a dynamic group of artists dedicated to developing and performing new work that lies outside of genre-specific categorisations.
The ensemble is formed by outstanding musicians with very diverse backgrounds that range from contemporary classical to jazz and pop. Some of the members are regarded as the most creative performers and composers of the Dutch jazz and improvised scene, and some other members perform regularly with internationally renowned orchestras such as the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra, Rotterdam Philharmonic, Antwerp Symphony, Ludwig Orchestra and Metropole Orkest.
The group works primarily on conceptual album-based projects with a unique instrumentation that brings a fresh sound and a new perspective to the classical and non-classical traditions, resulting in works unrivalled in their beauty, imagination and complexity.
The ensemble is led by composer Rodrigo Faina, who deeply believes in presenting excellent and emotionally communicative music, which transcends conventional and outdated genre distinctions.
The ensemble’s projects reflect Rodrigo´s interests such as literature, dance, film and his diverse musical background.
Artists
DIFFERENT ROOTS
Different Roots, Change Ensemble´s first album, is inspired by Rodrigo Faina´s adolescence and childhood in Argentina, where the literature of Julio Cortazar and Jorge Luis Borges went hand in hand with jazz music and played a fundamental role in Rodrigo´s life.
Each piece is inspired by literature and organically incorporates some form of improvisation. The album’s music evokes feelings and sensations that remain with us after having read each story, and aims to take us to a fantastic place that exists only in the composer’s mind.
Sound, space and a certain autumnal lyricism are the real common thread through the entire album, and some pieces arouse a deep feeling of nostalgia that some listeners might associate with tango music.
The instrumentation of most of the album is clearly rooted in jazz music. One could say that the ensemble is some kind of extended big band, although the characteristic orchestral writing takes the listener to unexpected places.
NEW ALBUM COMING SOON !
Change ensemble´s new album will be released on February 12th on Brooklyn based Red Piano Records. Stay tuned !
Change Ensemble Personnel:
Fanny Alofs – Voice
Marieke Franssen – Flute
Ilse Eijsink – Bb Clarinet, Bass Clarinet
Lars Wouters – Bb Clarinet, Bass Clarinet
Paul van der Feen – Soprano, Alto Saxophone
Kees Krabben – Alto Saxophone
Iman Spaargaren – Tenor Saxophone
Nils van Haften – Soprano, Tenor, Baritone Sax (Soloist on If I’m to live)
Stefanie Liedtke – Bassoon
Marc Kaptijn – Trumpet, Flügelhorn
Gerard Kleijn – Flügelhorn (Soloist on At night)
Erwin ter Bogt – Trumpet, Flügelhorn
Victor Belmonte – Trombone, Bass Trombone
Daniel Quiles Cascant – Trombone
Dave Kutz – Tuba
Guillermo Celano – Electric Guitar (Soloist on A Room Full of people)
Folkert Oosterbeek – Piano, Rhodes
Clemens van der Feen – Double Bass
Marcos Baggiani – Drums, additional percussion
Jasper Le Clercq – Violin
Nina Hitz – Cello
Rodrigo Faina – Conductor, Electric guitar
Bonus track personnel:
Metropole Orkest conducted by Jules Buckley
All compositions by Rodrigo Faina
Produced by Rodrigo Faina
Recorded by Erik de Reus at Studio de Reus, Rotterdam
Edited and mixed by REX at Rex studios, Madrid
Mastered by Manuel Pajaro and Rodrigo Faina
Artwork and cover design by Blanca Bonet
Rodrigo Faina | Composer 