Jazz saxophonist Benjamin Herman has been fascinated by the influence of Japanese culture on the West, particularly on improvised jazz music, and has maintained a close relationship with Japan since 1987. Through frequent visits, collaborations with Japanese artists and inviting musicians from the country to perform in the Netherlands, he has developed a deep understanding of its music, especially jazz.
In 2024 and 2025, Herman visited Japan to study its music scene in all its facets, from salon music and club jazz to Japanese science-fiction films from the 1950s to the 1970s and anime from the 1980s and 1990s. In collaboration with local musicians, he will develop a new body of work inspired by this research, which will be performed in concerts in Japan and Europe. The music will also be recorded for an album set for release in 2026.
The creative process– conversations, research, musical encounters, experimentation and recording sessions – behind this chapter in his 35-year career will be captured in a documentary set to premiere at the Dutch Pavilion during the World Expo. For the documentary, Herman will collaborate with his twin brother, the director and photographer Jonathan Herman.
Team
Benjamin Herman – saxophone
Thomas Pol – double bass
Jimmi Hueting – drums
Jonathan Herman – director
About Benjamin Herman
An always sharply dressed saxophonist and musical omnivore, Benjamin Herman has been performing since 1991. He has worked as a solo artist and frontman of his groove-oriented ensemble New Cool Collective. Additionally, he enthusiastically shares his musical knowledge through radio, podcasts and written columns.
Events
Part of the showcase ‘Repair - Re-use - Survival’ (5 September – 13 October) in the Event Space of the Dutch Pavilion.
Performance, 18 September, 19:00 – 21:00, on Pop-up Stage West (World Expo grounds).
Talkshow and premiere of the documentary on 19 September 15:00 – 17:00, also in the Event Space.