Open Orchestra

Koen Boeijinga (1994, Utrecht) is a Dutch saxophonist, multi-instrumentalist, composer, improviser, and filmmaker, renowned for his energetic and inventive approach to music. His performances are characterized by a rich and distinctive palette of sounds, blending ancient and contemporary colors through his extensive collection of instruments, which includes woodwinds, drums, percussion, and self-made creations. At the heart of Koen’s music lies a deep connection to spontaneity and exploration, as he surrenders to the moment and its natural flow.   Koen began playing the saxophone at the age of seven. Over the years, he expanded his repertoire to include a wide range of instruments. In addition to the soprano and alto saxophones, Koen plays various wind and percussion instruments, such as clay flutes, harmoniums, bagpipes, drums, and an array of self-made objects. His fascination with sound and culture has led him to build a diverse collection of instruments from around the world.   In 2021, Koen graduated from the HKU Utrecht Conservatory. His graduation performance, MOA ft. Gamelan Orchestra, won the HKU Award for the most innovative performance project across all art schools in Utrecht. For this project, Koen combined his octet, MOA, with a 10-person gamelan orchestra. Their performance at TivoliVredenburg presented a modern fusion of gamelan and Western instruments, which was later released as his debut album.   In 2023, Koen and MOA won the national jazz prize The Records, giving him the opportunity to create his first studio album. This led to the formation of a new ensemble, Dutch Mountain Tribe. This seven-piece collective of wind, string, and percussion instruments includes both young pioneers and established virtuosos from the Dutch improvisation scene. Their music evokes folk songs from a mythical Dutch mountain landscape, weaving together idiosyncratic melodies, enchanting rhythms, and fiery improvisations. Their self-titled debut album was released in 2024, accompanied by a full-length cinematic film.   In addition to his ensemble work, Koen performs solo, showcasing his ability to play multiple instruments simultaneously and creating immersive acoustic soundscapes. He has performed extensively in the Netherlands, across Europe, and internationally, with a notable tour in Sri Lanka (2022).   Koen's most recent project is a trio with cellist Galya Sky and drummer Joost Lijbaart. Together, they play dynamic, drone- and groove-oriented, mostly improvised music that blends elements of neo-folk and jazz. Additionally, Koen is an active sideman for various international projects and has collaborated with renowned artists in jazz, improvised, and world music.   By combining his visual and interdisciplinary vision, Koen presents a unique musical world where the old meets the modern. His performances are dynamic and captivating, celebrating the uniqueness of each moment. At the core of his artistry are the values of freedom and connection.