Tim Kliphuis is an internationally acclaimed Dutch violinist and composer, celebrated for his unique blend of classical, gypsy jazz, and folk traditions. Renowned for his improvisational mastery and collaborations with artists like Nigel Kennedy and the Netherlands Chamber Orchestra, Kliphuis bridges genres with effortless elegance. His performances captivate audiences worldwide, from the Amsterdam Concertgebouw to Carnegie Hall, combining virtuosity with a deep passion for musical storytelling.
At what age did you start performing and how did you start?
I was 7 when I started learning classical violin and while I always wanted to do something special with it, I never knew how until I heard French jazz maestros Stéphane Grappelli and Django Reinhardt recordings at the age of 19. This was during my classical studies: I started learning jazz secretly and ‘came out’ with first concerts at the age of 21 or 22.
What are you looking forward to most about the upcoming Guitar Festival in Jersey?
My guitarist Nigel Clark is a world class player who was a member of rock group Hue and Cry, gypsy group Koshka and accompanied Scottish jazz icon Carol Kidd. He has never really focused on a solo career but in the Trio, he can show off all his many talents. Lightning-fast improvisation, a huge dynamic range, and intense musicality.
I am very lucky to work with him and my bassist, Roy Percy, who is a phenom on the bass - a one of a kind player too. As it’s our first time on Jersey, I really look forward to presenting our rather unique flavour of music.
What do you enjoy the most about performing and what has been your favourite performance?
Communicating with an audience. We are there to make them feel happy and sad, and they inspire us to play well. Recently, we had a very special performance on the Dutch Royal state visit to the Swedish Royal Family. The rest of the audience was made up of politicians and diplomats, but everyone enjoyed the music together and the afterparty went on forever :)
Why does music matter to you?
Without music, life would be a desert.
Who have been your biggest influences?
Stéphane Grappelli and Django Reinhardt. But also guitarists Barney Kessel and Joe Pass. And a fabulous English pianist by the name of George Shearing.
Where is your favourite place on earth?
Scotland, the weather notwithstanding. Its beauty and scale are unmatched.
What is the one song, performance or piece of music that is nostalgic for you and why?
“Morgen” by Richard Strauss. It is a vocal song about hope and love. We need it now more than ever, with the crazy state the world seems to be in these days. We might even play it in concert!