In 2011, I had the incredible opportunity to work with one of my musical heroes, Robertinho Silva, on a project called “Celebracao”. As a composer and producer, I’ve always been fascinated by the rhythms and rich musical traditions of Brazil, and Robertinho is a true master of this craft. His work spans over 50 years, during which he has played with legends like Milton Nascimento, Wayne Shorter, and Herbie Hancock. But what really drew me to Robertinho wasn’t just his impressive résumé—it was his deep connection to his roots and his desire to share his knowledge with others.

Robertinho’s versatility is something I admire immensely. He’s worked with everyone from jazz musicians to folkloric groups, and even contributed to film scores. But what really inspired me was his dedication to education. He’s taught everywhere from prestigious conservatories to workshops for kids, and his work in the favelas of Brazil has been especially meaningful. Through music, Robertinho has helped uplift underprivileged communities, showing them the power of rhythm and creativity.

For “Celebracao”, I wanted to create a space where Brazilian rhythms could meet the best of the Dutch jazz scene. Bringing Robertinho together with musicians like Ack van Rooijen, Bart van Lier, and Marco Kegel allowed us to explore that blend in a fresh way. I was excited to work with Robertinho not just because of his technical skill, but because of his openness and passion for collaboration. Together, we created something that bridges cultures and tells a story through music.

I also want to pay tribute to the late Ack van Rooijen, who contributed his beautiful flugelhorn playing to this project. Ack, a legendary figure in Dutch jazz, brought a warmth and lyricism to “Celebracao” that elevated the entire experience. His tone, so full of emotion, was the perfect complement to Robertinho’s rhythmic drive. One of the pieces, *”Velvet Horn,”* was a composition I had written specifically with Ack in mind. It fit him perfectly—his smooth, velvety sound embodied everything I envisioned when writing the piece. Ack’s passing is a deep loss for the jazz world, but his contributions to this project will forever be remembered as a vital part of its heart and soul.

The first single from the EP “Falsos Profetas” was released last Friday and the second single “Velvet Horn” featuring Ack van Rooijen will be release on the 27th of September. The full EP is set for release on the 11th of October.

You can listen to “Falsos Profetas” below: