The Nest Vol. 5 Try-out

01 July | BIRD Rotterdam

The Nest is BIRD's annual residency programme, bringing together four promising artists for seven days in a shared creative bubble. A week in which musicians from different backgrounds meet, exchange ideas, write new music and develop an entirely new live show together. There is no fixed formula and no predetermined plan, only curiosity, experimentation and the freedom to create something new.

The Nest provides a platform for the next generation of artists. Musicians who not only excel within their own projects, but are challenged to step beyond their comfort zones and explore new musical worlds together.

For The Nest Vol. 5, the following artists join forces:

Lezaam Beets, trombone and voice

Dane Paris, drums and percussion

Jaydian Daniel, keys

Eñaut, electric bass

In the lead-up to their performance, the artists will be developing and rehearsing new material from Muziekwerf Rotterdam. Throughout this period, they will be guided by a mentor. This year, that mentor is none other than Nduduzo Makhathini. An internationally acclaimed South African pianist, improviser, scholar and Blue Note recording artist, Makhathini offers a powerful perspective on music as a force for collective memory, transformation and transcendence.

On 01 July, you'll get an exclusive first look at what has emerged from this residency. The try-out marks the moment when a week of ideas, jams, conversations and creative discoveries is shared with an audience for the very first time. Raw, fresh and still very much in motion.

Joining the artists for this special try-out are:

Diana Dzhabbar, saxophone and flute

Julia Zahra, vocals

Following the try-out, the stage opens for a jam session, open to everyone.

The Nest is about process, encounter and the magic of the unknown. This is your chance to experience the project before its official premiere at North Sea Jazz.

The Try-out is made possible with the support of North Sea Round Town, the fringe festival of NN North Sea Jazz Festival, bringing jazz, soul, funk, hip hop and more to audiences across Rotterdam.

The premiere is made possible with the support of North Sea Jazz Festival.