John Engels receives first ever Lifetime Achievement Edison

A life in the service of music: John Engels still sits behind the drum kit with suppleness and senses on pure intuition what each song needs. Last night, at a concert honoring his 90th birthday at our venue, he received the first-ever Lifetime Achievement Edison.

Engels, who in his long and successful career shared the stage with greats such as Chet Baker, Stan Getz, Ray Brown and Hank Jones, gave a special birthday concert in trio with trumpeter Jan van Duikeren and double bassist Tobias Nijboer. Singer Francien van Tuinen, pianist Juraj Stanik and saxophonist Candy Dulfer performed as special guests. The honor of presenting the Edison went to Van Duikeren, who completely surprised Engels.

To receive a Lifetime Achievement Edison, a musician does not have to be active anymore, but he or she does have to have a career “that is grand and inspiring,” according to the organization. In addition, the laureate must have been active in the profession for at least 35 years and possess “a solid body of work with an exceptional live reputation.”

“John Engels is an inimitable, humble and inspired musician. He constantly responds to his fellow players with the energy and sharpness of a young dog,” states the organization behind the award.