Misha Mengelberg

Pianist

Birthday June 5, 1935

Birth Sign Gemini

Birthplace Russia

DEATH DATE Mar 3, 2017 (81)

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About

Leader of the influential Dutch group ICP Orchestra. He had a profound effect on the country's music scene in the 1960s.

Before Fame

He intended to become an architect, but after hearing the music of Charlie Parker and Thelonious Monk, he changed his mind.

Trivia

He worked with a wide range of musicians, drummers, bassists, and even his pet parrot.

Family Life

His father Karel Mengelberg was a well-known and demanding Dutch conductor.

Associated With

He was influenced by John Cage after hearing him lecture at Darmstadt where he became entranced with Cage's completely new, experimental style.