What a wonderful experience to play with the Jazz station Big Band ft. Grégoire Maret on the Belgian Day at the World Expo Dubai 2020. In the most beautiful setting of Al Wasl plaza in presence of the Belgian King and Queen, we had the honor and opportunity to introduce the Toots 100 year (see introduction below).
We also played in front of the Belgian Pavillon many times, on the rooftop, even in Designer District Dubai, in different configurations, small or large, but every time with passion for Toots and his music. We were very happy to receive many positive reactions and feedback from the audience, telling us that the world still appreciates the music and the legacy of Toots. Maybe even more than ever before. So let’s go for the next tribute! Between a smile and a tear.
Special thanks to:
Brussels Capital Region (Rudi Vervoort – Sven Gatz – Pascal Smet – Frank Lelon – Samuel Servaes – Geoffroy Clerckx), Belgian Royal Palace,General Commissioner for International Exhibitions: Patrick Vercauteren Drubbel, Belgian Pavillion on World Expo Dubai (Myriam Cops – Tom Claes and all others), World Expo Dubai, Jazz Station Big Band, Stephane Mercier, Grégoire Maret
Throughout this year we celebrate the 100th Birthday of Toots Thielemans.Toots was an incredible overall musician, often honored as the best jazz-harmonica-player in the world. Above all, he had a charming personality that still inspires musiclovers and musicians all over the world, and unknowingly represented the true Belgian spirit: open to everyone, curious, always ready for a new adventure, ready to be inspired.It’s a great honour and pleasure to present you the “Jazz Station Big Band” with Grégoire Maret on harmonica. They will play a medley of “Bluesette”, “Ne me quitte pas” and “What a wonderful World”. For a brief moment, they will recall that unique, moving sound of Toots, always between a smile and a tear. Enjoy.
