The special feature of the 'artist group' is that the teacher regularly is a member of the ensemble, sharing their vision on music through their compositions, arrangements and of course their playing. This way the students get a deeper understanding of the teacher's special composing, arranging and playing techniques.

In the 1970s and 1980s in Amsterdam there was a lot of research done into the relationship between composition and improvisation. The composers involved, Misha Mengelberg, Willem Breuker, Guus Janssen, Theo Loevendie, Maarten van Regteren Altena, Maurice Horsthuis, and others, were trained in both the classical and, to some extent, the jazz traditions. They developed their own aesthetics and systems of organization.

In this group you will experience some of their pieces as well as those of later generations (Ab Baars, Cor Fuhler, Eric Boeren, Joost Buis), and others who influenced and were influenced by these developments (Sean Bergin, Franky Douglas, John Zorn, Michael Moore). The students will also learn about free improvisation, finding your voice, and role in the total soundscape.