Instant Composers Pool
ICP ORCHESTRA
The ICP Orchestra, founded in 1967 by Han Bennink and Misha Mengelberg, is renowned for its creative spontaneity and unpredictability. Though Mengelberg's compositions remain central to the band's performances, no two concerts are alike. The musicians have developed a deep understanding of each other's musical idiosyncrasies, leading to performances full of surprising twists, unusual eruptions, and moments of unexpected beauty.
In 1967, Han Bennink, along with pianist/composer Misha Mengelberg, founded the versatile ICP Orchestra, which is now recognized as one of the most creative groups in modern jazz. Mengelberg passed away in 2017, but his compositions are kept alive by the orchestra's relatively consistent lineup.
Although Mengelberg's works form the core of their repertoire, no ICP concert is ever the same. The musicians of the ICP Orchestra have learned to navigate each other's quirks, particularly when it comes to timing and intonation. They understand how to confuse each other, how to twist or derail the music during a performance. As a result, the music is full of surprises, unexpected turns, graceful moments, and bizarre outbursts.
The ICP Orchestra:
- Michael Moore – Alto Saxophone/Clarinet
- Ab Baars – Tenor Saxophone/Clarinet
- Tobias Delius – Tenor Saxophone
- Wolter Wierbos – Trombone
- Thomas Heberer – Trumpet
- Mary Oliver – Violin/Viola
- Tristan Honsinger – Cello
- Guus Janssen – Piano
- Ernst Glerum – Bass
- Han Bennink – Drums