About Chamber9
is a genre-defying ensemble dedicated to carrying forward the rich legacy of classic jazz, re-imagined through an unexpected blend of instruments.
Celebrating the timeless works of Jazz and American Songbook composers, as well as original compositions by its members, Chamber9 delivers contemporary arrangements that are harmonically sophisticated and open to dynamic improvisation. With a sound that’s both bold and uniquely expressive, Chamber9 brings a fresh “wow factor” to today’s jazz scene.
Chamber9 was founded in 2019.
The ensemble features nine musicians, blending two guitars, jazz vocals, a string quartet, and a dynamic rhythm section. This sensuous and sophisticated fusion of modern and classical string instruments brings out their lush beauty and warmth through harmonically rich arrangements—anchored by a hard-swinging rhythm section that drives the music with energy and finesse.
Chamber9 has a unique sound and vision on the musical material they present. A somewhat classicist approach in form and expression is counterbalanced by the excitingly modern use of instrumental colors and choice of individuals who represent a generation of musicians who are able to merge musical worlds which were once separated. Composition, arrangement and styles of improvisation converge, contributing a rich palette of sounds to contemporary music.
In this way we would like to take our audience on an artistic journey in the world of classical and contemporary jazz in the character of intimate yet exciting chamber music.
Our first project was documented on September 20th 2019 with a wonderful concert organized by Daniel Slaman of Slamanguitars (www.slamanguitars.com). We presented an evening with selected pieces by the timeless Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn, arranged by Axel Hagen in two compilations of two times 40 minutes of continuous music.
This music has been released on double CD in 2020 under the title: “Chamber9 plays Ellington/Strayhorn”
The ensemble released a new CD in 2024 with the title: “The Sound of Chamber9”.
The recordings of 2020 and 2023 have been done in this setting:
Sanna van Vliet – vocals
Axel Hagen – steel string jazz guitar
Michael Arlt – nylon string jazz guitar
Thomas W.Andersen – acoustic bass
Joan Terol Amigo – drums/percussion
Víctor Flores – violin
Ángela Moya – violin
Kardelen Buruk – viola
Cèlia Torres – cello
all arrangements by Axel Hagen
Download extended info about the group (pdf) with individual bios ENGLISH
Download extended info about the group (pdf) with individual bios DUTCH
Download extended info about the group (pdf) with individual bios GERMAN
NEW!!!!!
Coming in late 2025, early 2026: “The Celebration Chamber Orchestra“
A new recording featuring Chamber9 with an addition of 5 woodwind players (Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bass-clarinet and French Horn), featuring the soloists from Chamber9 and guest soloists in compositions by Bill Evans, Lee Konitz, Billy Strayhorn, Tadd Dameron, Jerome Kern, Bernice Petkere and others, all arranged by Axel Hagen.
The “Celebration Chamber Orchestra“, under the direction of Axel Hagen, offers a distinctive kaleidoscope of instrumental colors, propelled by a dynamic rhythm section and a progressive fusion of contemporary harmony and melody. With musical finesse, sophistication, and jazz-infused innovation, this ensemble delivers a rich, vibrant sound that is both refreshingly modern and utterly captivating.
The music of Chamber9 is available on all major streaming services