Since 1972, De Oktopedians has stood for one clear principle: improvisation is for everyone. Founded by Herman de Wit, who launched a movement with the motto ‘The broader the base, the higher the peak’, the workshop orchestra has grown into the oldest still existing jazz improvisation collective in the Netherlands. What began in café De Oktopus and from 1974 found a weekly home in our venue, continues undiminished after De Wit’s passing (1995) under the direction of his student and friend Arthur Heuwekemeijer. The spirit remains the same: accessible, adventurous, together.

Every musician is welcome, from absolute beginners to seasoned players. The only requirement: you can get a few notes out of your instrument. No need to read music or know music theory – everything is played by ear, without sheet music. Every Thursday evening from 20:00, Zaal 100 on Wittenstraat opens its doors to anyone who wants to join in or just come and listen. For this special concert, De Oktopedians welcome rapper, dancer, and spoken word artist Andy Ninvalle and the energetic Zuidoost Percussie Groep, led by Eddy Veldman and Mervyn Groot.