Arjan Jongsma
With a network of Artist Centres and Ateliers around the world, Yamaha works with leading players to support their performances and develop instrument designs and new ideas for the benefit of all musicians. Yamaha Artists share with us a passion for inspiring the next generation of players, and a belief that everybody should be encouraged to nurture their talent, connect with others and tell their stories through music.
Get to know percussionist and Yamaha Artist Arjan Jongsma
How does your instrument help you in your daily life as an artist?
Playing at varying locations, requires an instrument that is flexible. A beautiful concerthall will make the instrument sing even more than it already does by itself. But the great part is that when placing the instrument in a dry acoustic, the sound still will be great because the instrument speaks so well. Besides that, having an instrument that is so easy to transport is a very welcome extra feature.
How would you characterise your instrument?
A pure, warm, flexible sounding instrument that sings very equally over the whole range.
Who was your most influential teacher and is there any advice which you still follow?
During my studies at the Conservatory of Amsterdam I had the privilege of working with multiple teachers. The great part of having so many teachers, is that you learn there is not `one' truth in how to play. However, there was one resemblance which came back in all of the lessons: Try to understand the meaning of the notes which the composer had in mind.
Advice for a young musician:
Make a wise and personal decision regarding the school or conservatory you want to study. I think this is of big importance for the future of your musical career. Try to find that one place and teacher that motivates you and gets the most out of you as a musician.
"Yamaha instruments give me the possibility to refine my sound, discover new colours and to push the limits in marimba playing. It's a pure joy to play the YM-5100A marimba."
About Arjan Jongsma
Arjan Jongsma is Teacher at the Percussion Friends-Sweelinck Academy at the Conservatory of Amsterdam. Soloist, Colori Ensemble, Mallet Collective, Nieuwe Philharmonie Utrecht.
Arjan plays YM-5100A.
