With one of Europe's finest conservatories and a great number of musicians from all over the world, Amsterdam has a very interesting jazz scene. And just like in New York, Amsterdam's jazz musicians love to practice their 'chops' in front of an audience rather than in a hidden studio. So the city has a couple of good jam sessions but most of them come and go in a short time... because leading a session is an art! And Daan Herweg is the most dedicated leader that I know of. He started the Nel session in 2009 and he's hardly ever missed a Monday night, even when he was touring with international star Caro Emerald. He knows how to keep the perfect balance of giving everybody a chance while always holding the musical level at a high standard. Apart from that, he's an amazing pianist himself and has a huge worldwide network -- that's why on a lucky night you might as well hear some big American names that are passing by on tour.
Not that I'm such a frequent session player, but whenever I feel like joining in somewhere, Nel is always my first choice!
Find your way with 170 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Scandinavian Embassy" in Amsterdam is a pretty small and cute coffee shop. You may have to queue up, but their coffee is 100% worth your while...
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"Carla Palermo" in Amsterdam is a living room that's been turned into a second-hand vintage clothing shop! The best store in the Jordaan if you ask me...
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"SUE" in Amsterdam is a vegan, sugar- and gluten-free pastry shop. Their specialty are their 'bites', square-shaped delights in about 20 different flavors!
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"Bar Botanique" in Amsterdam East makes you feel as if you've stepped inside a jungle! You should really see it from both the inside and out...
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"Yusu" in Amsterdam is what the perfect coffee company a-la twenty-first century should look like. Also, if you're a lover of matcha, it's the place to be.
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"Tolbar" is definitely one of Amsterdam's hidden gems. You can arrive at this terrace in the morning and have different things to do until you go to bed!
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At Kok Antiquariaat you can find beautifully aged maps of Amsterdam or nostalgic postcards as a thoughtful gift for someone who loves the city.
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Are you ready to visit a Dutch vineyard? It's true! Just head over to "Amsteltuin" just outside Amsterdam proper and enjoy the goodies between the vines...
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"Tenue de Nimes" in Amsterdam is mainly a jeans brand but it's here that I've bought my coolest jacket ever! They're super friendly & helfpul. ..
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Step into Huis Marseille on Keizersgracht: a canal house museum where photography, history, and intimate beauty come together in every room.
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