Yangthi - Live in Toonzaal, The Netherlands. 12-06-2025
Sonam Dorji, Bram Stadhouders, Joost Lijbaart
This project is an extraordinary musical meeting between the ancient traditions of Bhutan and contemporary Western music. It brings together Kheng Sonam Dorji, one of Bhutan's most celebrated interpreters of traditional music, and Dutch musicians Bram Stadhouders (guitar, electronics) and Joost Lijbaart (drums).
In 2023, during a groundbreaking journey to Bhutan, Stadhouders and Lijbaart became the first Dutch jazz musicians to perform in the Himalayan kingdom. Their encounter with Sonam Dorji marked the beginning of a collaboration that merges Dorji’s traditional Bhutanese melodies with Western arrangements featuring elements of ambient, electronics, and improvised jazz.
The result is a mesmerizing fusion where the spiritual depth and heritage of Bhutanese music meet innovative sounds, creating a dialogue between two distinct musical worlds. This unique project honors Bhutan's ancient cultural identity while introducing modern approaches, weaving together tradition and innovation into a captivating musical experience.
For bookings:
Joost Lijbaart - joostl@xs4all.nl
