"I heard new territory that night, modern, innovative, and highly skillful composition"Kenny Werner
"His engaging compositions and arrangements are awash in perception and authenticity"All About Jazz
The fire of the flamenco elements is taken to another level through colourful orchestration and the dynamic range of the Big Band. A symbiosis in which characteristic flamenco harmonies and rhythms serve as a template for improvisation. Palmas, jaleos and phrygian chords provide a fresh folkloric context, launching jazz solos in a new direction. Lead by hispano-dutch saxophonist/composer/arranger Bernard van Rossum, the BvR Flamenco big band won first prize at the Meerjazz International Big Band Competition in 2014 and the Keep an Eye on Jazz records Award in 2015 . Their 2 critically acclaimed albums “Jaleo Holandés” (2015) and "Luz de Luna" (2017) were released at the Flamenco Biennale and Bimhuis respectively, the latter featuring Paco de Lucia sidemen Antonio Serrano (harmonica), David de Jacoba (voice) and Dutch saxophone wizzard Ben van Gelder.
As well various international tours, they have performed at the Netherland’s most prominent venues and festivals, among them North Sea Jazz festival, Flamenco Biennale, Rotterdam International Jazz Festival, Bimhuis, de Doelen, Jazz in Duketown, Amersfoort Jazz and Grachten Festival.
Live shows also see the flamenco dance dimension represented, featuring varying guest bailaoras like Cristina Hall, Mathilde Anton and Irene Alvarez.