Michiel Borstlap

The Profile

Michiel Borstlap is a Dutch jazz pianist and composer known for vivid solo work, dynamic piano trios, and imaginative reworks of modern repertoire.

Dutch jazz pianist and composer active since the 1990s. Featured in solo, duo-keyboard/percussion, and trio settings; collaborated with Jeff “Tain” Watts. His trio with Stefen Lievestro (bass) and Pascal Vermeer (drums) is praised for precision, dynamics, and interplay. Coffee and Jazz was recorded right after the North Sea Jazz Festival (summer 2004). Reviews note echoes of Jarrett, Bley, Monk, and Peterson, and highlight an acoustic homage to Weather Report.

Three enthusiastic reviews spotlight Michiel Borstlap’s versatility: expansive trio work, refined solo pieces, and an acoustic tribute to Weather Report. The writing praises his originality while nodding to Jarrett, Bley, Monk, and Peterson. Strong sidemen (including Jeff “Tain” Watts, Stefen Lievestro, Pascal Vermeer) and high-level live interplay are highlighted.