Behind the Dikes

Jan Menu (1962) is a Dutch saxophonist. He used to mainly play the alto and tenor saxophone, but recently has started making the baritone sax his main instrument. He graduated from the conservatory in Hilversum as a performing and teaching musician. In 1987, he formed a trio with guitarist Maarten van der Grinten and bass player Jan Voogd, named DIG d’DIZ, the first letters of “Drie is goedkoper, de Drummer is ziek,” which translates to “Three is cheaper, the Drummer is sick.” The simple reason back then was that there was not enough money for a drummer. He developed into an extremely skilled saxophonist and became the cornerstone of numerous orchestras spanning a wide variety of styles, which we will explore during this episode. You can hear him perform with DIG d’DIZ, with vocalists Greetje Kauffeld and Fay Claassen, as well as with Nico Bunink’s and Rembrandt Frerichs’ piano trios. We will also hear a recording from the album “Tribute To Wessel Ilcken,” featuring many prominent Dutch musicians.

Playlist

Mahler                                          with DIG d’DIZ

A Flower Is A Lovesong Thing with DIG d’DIZ

Just One Of The Things            with Greetje Kauffeld and DIG d’DIZ

Because Of You                          with Greetje Kauffeld and DIG d’DIZ

Alright, OK, You Win                  with Greetje Kauffeld and DIG d’DIZ

Ask Me Now                                with trio Nico Bunink

Sao Paulo                                     with trio Rembrandt Frerichs

Why Did I Choose You               Context: A Tribute To Wessel Ilcken

Walking Shoes                            with Fay Claassen

Nights At The Turntables          with Fay Claassen