Marcel Veenendaal & Jan van Duikeren

Marcel Veenendaal and Jan van Duikeren share a deep love of jazz. That shared passion forms the foundation of a collaboration in which rock, pop and jazz meet in a natural and compelling way.

Marcel Veenendaal is best known as the frontman of DI-RECT, where his expressive voice and powerful stage presence have captivated audiences in major venues and at festivals. In this collaboration, he reveals a different side of himself: more personal, more intimate and deeply rooted in jazz.

Jan van Duikeren is one of the Netherlands’ leading trumpet players, as well as an active composer and arranger. He has worked with numerous national and international artists and is known for his virtuoso playing, rich sound and creative interpretations.

The collaboration between Veenendaal and Van Duikeren began during the Covid period, when Jan invited Marcel to sing Almost Blue for his album Short Stories. The musical connection proved so strong that a full album followed: A Love Unveiled, released in 2024. On the album, Veenendaal’s vocal expression and Van Duikeren’s jazz expertise come together in a warm, layered sound.

In 2025, the duo embarked on a sold-out tour, culminating in a sold-out performance at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam. Veenendaal and Van Duikeren also received the Edison Jazz Audience Award for A Love Unveiled.

New music is expected in 2026, this time consisting largely of original compositions and featuring contributions from several guest musicians. During their new tour, Veenendaal and Van Duikeren will be joined live by jazz greats Martijn Vink, Aram Kersbergen and Karel Boehlee.

Expect an evening in which impressive vocals, lyrical trumpet lines and outstanding musicianship come together in an intimate live setting.

Line-up
Marcel Veenendaal – vocals
Jan van Duikeren – trumpet
Martijn Vink – drums
Aram Kersbergen – bass
Karel Boehlee – piano