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Ferdi Schukking (saxophones)


Amsterdam,
Holland,
1959
Saxophonist Ferdi Schukking learned soprano saxophone under Adri van Velsen in Maastricht, studied composition with Misha Mengelberg in Amsterdam and microtonality with dr. Rudolf Rasch in Utrecht. He is equally accomplished on the soprano, alto, tenor and baritone saxophones. His classical training has been showcased in the Delphi Saxophone Quartet, with modern compositions of Dutch composers, with the ensemble "14CMS" (I Foresee a Mess), which plays a combination of jazz and pop, and in a duo with pianist Bea de Jong. His own septet, "Very Shucking", features three saxophones, a French horn, a trombone, a double bass and drums. He is also an accomplished solo performer, and his program, De Ontmoeting ("The Meeting"), features all four saxophones, with works by J. S. Bach, by the modern Dutch composer Theo Loevendie, from the jazz musician Thelonious Monk, and with improvisations on his own compositions.

In 1995 he won the Dordtse Jazzprize with his septet, and in 1989, together with pianist Ingeborg van Stiphout, he won the KRO Saxophone Competition. He has produced and collaborated on numerous CD productions. Ferdi Schukking's creatively expansive range is instantly recognizable in every solo he plays. He has the ability to interpret an emotion typical of a certain composition in a way that suits the moment. His versatility and openness give his music its own vital and playful character.