"The Instant Composers Pool Orchestra, from Amsterdam... they are scholars and physical comedians, critics and joy-spreaders.”
– The New York Times

Every so often a concert comes along that is so special, we struggle to put it into words.

Celebrating both the 50th anniversary of the group, and co-founder Han Bennink’s 75th birthday, IMC are delighted to present Instant Composers Pool (ICP) for the very first performances in Ireland from this legendary Dutch ensemble. A unique and internationally renowned collective of composer-improviser-instrumentalists, the ICP was formed in 1967 by Misha Mengelberg, Han Bennink and Willem Breuker. Put simply, it is a revolutionary band and the last of its kind.

For half a century, the ever-evolving orchestra has collaborated with giants of the experimental music world. Their current line-up consists of ten of the most innovative musical voices from around the globe.

The exact programme is always a surprise, as the band decides just a few minutes before the performance what they will be playing. From ragtime to swing, bop to free jazz, classical to carnival, the ICP Orchestra continues to be at the forefront of experimental music. Nothing else sounds quite like them and no two gigs are ever alike.

Prepare for a spectacle of mischief, surprise and spontaneous invention in the company of the most creative and influential musical collective in Europe for the past 50 years.

Dublin concert preceded by Irish premiere screening of documentary on legendary musician and co-founder of ICP, the late Misha Mengelberg ‘Misha; and so on’ at 8:15pm | Band onstage 9:40pm

The Concert is further complemented by a special interactive children's performance 'Bim Bam Bennink' in The Studio at the National Concert Hall, Dublin at 1pm on Saturday 4th November.

Further details and booking through nch.ie

IRISH TOUR DATES:

Thursday 2nd November Culturlann, DERRY

Friday 3rd November The Mac, BELFAST

Saturday 4th November The Sugar Club, DUBLIN

Sunday 5th November Triskel Arts Centre, CORK

This tour is supported by the Touring and Dissemination of Work Scheme funded by a partnership between the Arts Council of Ireland and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland

With additional support from the Dutch Performing Arts 'Going Dutch' programme in partnership with the Jazz Promotion Network