1. Concept
Like the original American Real Books, which are considered bibles by jazz musicians around the world, the Real Book Belgium (RBB) is a collection of sheet music, distributed nationally and internationally, showcasing the musical heritage of Belgium, both French-speaking and Dutch-speaking.
Real Book Belgium will include around a hundred compositions in open musical forms, based on the model of jazz standards, just like the famous original Real Book. The compositions will come from Belgian jazz composers, but also from contemporary music composers, several of whom are open to both worlds.
The selection of musicians invited to take part in the first edition of the RBB – including yourself – was made by an artistic committee composed of Baudouin de Jaer, Manuel Hermia, Alain Pierre (and Les Lundis d'Hortense), and Mik Torfs (and the JazzLab).
The Fédération des Jeunesses Musicales Wallonie-Bruxelles decided to work alongside Baudouin de Jaer to bring this original project to life because it fits in with its overall mission on several levels:
- introducing ALL YOUNG PEOPLE to ALL TYPES OF MUSIC,
- paying particular attention to disadvantaged audiences and more complex musical styles,
- contributing to the dissemination of our country's musical heritage, including its international dimension,
- supporting musicians, composers, and performers, particularly young people, in the development of their careers.
2. Real Book Belgium—What is it for? Who is it for?
The RBB has two objectives:
‐ to be a tool of expression for young (and not so young) musicians, amateurs and professionals;
‐ to participate in the preservation and dissemination of our country's musical heritage, both in Belgium and abroad, via the Jeunesses Musicales International network.
The RBB will therefore be designed as a music book aimed at anyone interested in open musical compositions, based on the model of jazz standards, like the famous original Real Book.
Please note! Additional postage costs may be added for international shipments.