Reflections from Kaatsbaan

What struck me immediately was how quickly we all fell into a rhythm together. Artists, presenters, representatives, and advocates from every corner of the field were in the room, and within hours, it felt like a community. We tackled some tough topics – equity, sustainability, technology, the evolving role of jazz in our culture – but the conversations were grounded in such honesty and care that it never felt overwhelming. Instead, it felt like we were collectively figuring out how to move forward.

A personal highlight for me was the performance by Donald Vega and Rufus Reid. I knew going in that it would be special, but I wasn’t prepared for just how much their music would move me. Donald’s playing was so full of life, while Rufus brought this deep, grounding presence that made everything feel timeless. You could feel everyone leaning into the music, connected not only to them but to each other. It was like the music gave us all permission to just be in the moment. That’s the magic of live performance – it breaks down walls, creates connection, and reminds you of the things that really matter.

But it wasn’t just about the music-making. What surprised me most were the moments in between: the chats over coffee, the spontaneous bursts of laughter, the shared determination to keep jazz thriving. I’ve been in a lot of rooms like this, but something about this one felt different. Maybe it was the intimacy of the setting, or the generosity of everyone present, but there was a genuine sense of possibility in the air.

Leaving Kaatsbaan, I kept thinking about how listening feels like the right starting point for everything we’re trying to do. It wasn’t just a gathering of ideas; it was a reminder of why jazz matters, why the people who love it matter, and why there’s still so much to look forward to.