MIKE DEL FERRO plays BELCANTO

"One thing is clear. There couldn't be a more respectful tribute from a son to his father, like Mike del Ferro shows playing his Belcanto. It's like the sun and moon facing eachother with the warmest among smiles ..."

He was scheduled as a closing gig in Hoorn, Jazz at the Hop. A tasteful and modest jazzfestival with enough visitors to keep things interesting to those who like to watch and observe the crowd. And fortunately there weren't more people around than suited for this venue, so one wouldn't develop claustrofobia or step on one's toes. So no repeatedly "sorry" or "excuse me" or getting pushed in the back for standing in the way. Pretty comfortable and an easy going atmosphere this Jazz at the Hop. The Michiel Borstlap's Vocal 2001 group bowed to their applause and people left the main hall for drinks, a cigarette, the ladies' room or to sit back and enjoy Mike del Ferro's interpretation of Verdi, Puccini and songs from Napoli in the smaller hall. The foyer was right next to where Mike and his two companions had to give it their best shot while the noises from people talking and walking and glasses being filled or emptied were unexpected accessories. I tried to listen for a few minutes but i was sitting on the steps, too close to the chitchatting folks who needed a break after some hours of music or met people they hadn't seen and talked to for a while. I knew i would be able to see Mike perform in Carnaval du Jazz, Heerlen, only two days later. So i got up when i spotted Michiel Borstlap to say hi to him, we met during his Liveline tour last year. And while one piano man shared a drink with me, the other continued his journey in the land where opera meets jazz. Or vice versa. The legacy of Leonardo del Ferro. Mike del Ferro can be seen as a strong appetizer to Lee Konitz who will do the honors next Monday in Carnaval du Jazz. I guess i was a lucky one, having been there in Hoorn and now a chance to enjoy the music in the ambiance of a club. The audience was listening with growing appreciation and even the lady tending to drinks collecting empty glasses paused for a moment when Mike started playing a quiet song ... she stood still perfectly holding these empty glasses and as if they timed it, she waited for the drums and bass to join Mike's pianoplay to get back to the counter safely knowing she wouldn't interfere or disturb. Conveniently converted to jazz ballads and rich in color as only arias can be, Mike del Ferro seems to have a sense for this from opera to jazz translation. When one listens, it's not difficult to imagine this small boy  watching his father sing and be passionate about the music as it is. Very interesting to hear familiar melodies now dressed in spiced rhythms and this sensitive honorful voice and harmony reigning the grand piano. Stefan Lievestro on bass, Roy Dackus on drums, the three of them blended their individual strength and painted the audience a pleasant entertaining picture, introducing us to refreshing contemporary arrangements to songs from way back when in Italy. The fruits of labour and love. Now and then.

© Gina Vodegel, Maastricht 10/11 september 2001

Mike del Ferro

Back to Archief