TROPENJAZZ: A Journey into the Vibrant Jazz World of the Dutch East Indies

Step into the mesmerizing world of jazz in the Dutch East Indies with TROPENJAZZ. From the early Fidgety Feet Jazz played in 1919 to the enchanting sounds of serious listening jazz concerts in the late thirties, this book transports readers to a bygone era of exuberant jazz music.

Orchestras of All Kinds: From Ocean Liners to Indies Bands

Experience the diversity of jazz orchestras through a kaleidoscope of imagery, advertisements, and rare photographs. From the ship orchestras of the grand ocean liners to the top ensembles from overseas, cinema orchestras, vibrant Manila jazz, school bands, Indo-European jazz orchestras, and indigenous bands, TROPENJAZZ showcases the rich tapestry of jazz musicians and their performances.

An Intertwining of Music and Culture

TROPENJAZZ delves into the context of the colonial society and explores colonial ideologies of white superiority that influenced the jazz scene in the Dutch East Indies. It sheds light on the discrimination faced by Indo-European musicians, the economic challenges, and the impact of the Japanese occupation and post-war upheaval, ultimately leading to the forced departure of many jazz musicians from the region.

A Musical Journey Beyond Borders

Through captivating anecdotes and stories, the epilogue of TROPENJAZZ offers a glimpse into the lives of internationally acclaimed Dutch East Indies musicians who found success in the Netherlands and the ongoing jazz scene in Indonesia. This book aims to provide readers with an immersive experience, leaving them astonished by a whirlwind jazz world that has vanished but undoubtedly deserves a renewed appreciation.