In recent years, Michel Herr has re-oriented his activities, progressively shifting away from the piano to concentrate on writing (composing and arranging).
As a composer/arranger, or main arranger
The following projects feature Michel Herr's talents as a composer and arranger, in various instrumental setups. Click on the project's name for more details and verify its availability via en email.
Michel Herr "Positive" Tentet
10 musicians : 6 renowned jazz musicians, all of them soloists, and a string quartet. The repertoire consists exclusively of original compositions, in brand new arrangements.
Fabrice Alleman & Chamber Orchestra : "Udiverse"
Michel Herr wrote many arrangements for this project which features the music of Belgian saxophonist Fabrice Alleman and a large chamber orchestra. Compositions by Fabrice Alleman and Michel Herr. A creative mix between classical music, jazz, Celtic music and percussions from Argentina.
Michel Herr presents the Real Sax Section
5 excellent jazz saxophonists, supported by the trio of pianist Nathalie Loriers, recreate the unique sound of a full sax section in new arrangements by Michel Herr. Refined and swinging jazz, with generous solo space for inspired soloists.
Tribute to Toots Thielemans
6 musicians, some of whom regularly played with Toots Thielemans, pay a tribute to the late master. Arrangements and musical supervision by Michel Herr.
An American Songbook
Classical soprano Julie Mossay, jazz saxophonist Steve Houben and the trio of pianist Nathalie Loriers revisit a selection of great American songs, in new arrangements by Michel Herr which combine these soloists with a string ensemble. A project at the crossroads of popular American songs, jazz and classical music.
Michel Herr + the Brussels Jazz Orchestra : "the music of Michel Herr"
Michel Herr conducts his big band music with this acclaimed band. Available upon request.
Ivan Paduart & Herritage (Sextet)
Pianist Ivan Paduart plays a selection of compositions by Michel Herr with a sextet composed of top notch European musicians.
In the past, as a leader
For information, here are some bands Michel Herr has led until some years ago as a pianist. Click on the band's name for more details.
Michel Herr & Life Lines
A nine piece band featuring his own compositions and arrangements, with top Belgian jazzmen : Steve Houben (alsto sax & flute), Bert Joris or Gino Lattuca (trumpet), Fabrice Alleman (ten/sop sax), Phil Abraham (trombone), Marcus Bartelt (bari sax), Jacques Pirotton (guitar), Sal La Rocca or Sam Gerstmans (double bass) and Bruno Castellucci or Dré Pallemaerts (drums).
The Michel Herr European Quintet
With Bert Joris (trumpet, Wolfgang Engstfeld (tenor sax), Riccardo Del Fra or Philippe Aerts (double bass) and Dré Pallemaerts (drums).
Michel Herr & Unexpected Encounters
A nine-piece ensemble combining his European Quintet with a string quartet.
Michel Herr Trio
With Hein Van de Geyn, Riccardo Del Fra or Philippe Aerts (double bass) and Leroy Lowe, Dré Pallemaerts or Simon Goubert (drums).