The art of improvisation

Jef de Roode is a Dutch pianist who makes music through improvisation. When performing on the piano, he frequently transforms popular or classical themes into unique pieces. Jef also creates original music through improvisation.

The Albums

Jef’s use of improvisation gives his music a unique and personal style. His albums feature solo piano recordings of both his original compositions and revised versions of other works.

Melodies from the shore

2024

Jef de Roode's new album "Melodies from the Shore" is out now! After a five-year hiatus, Jef discovered a Fazioli 212 in Ghent, inspiring this ninth album, recorded in a coastal town. The album, available on Spotify and vinyl, captures sea tranquility and reflects on personal growth through tracks like "Silent Prelude" and "Cadence of Memories".
- Spotify
- Apple
Elegy

2019

"Elegy" is a personal album that explores emotions surrounding loss. It was inspired by Jef's experience of losing two sisters and his father. The album does not provide answers, but rather gives meaning to these emotions, which are relatable to many people, as we all experience loss at some point in our lives.
- Spotify
- Apple
September

2017

Jef's seventh album, titled “September” features a single 43-minute piano improvisation in which a recurring theme is expressed in various ways. The rearrangement of harmonies and rhythms gives the same melody different interpretations, similar to how the tone of voice or context can alter the meaning of words.
- Spotify
- Apple
In de Spiegel

2013

De Spiegel, a renowned theater in Zwolle, Netherlands, was the venue for a live performance that was captured on this album. Critically acclaimed, it is considered one of Jef's finest works and features a variety of musical elements, including both dissonant and harmonious sounds.
- Spotify
- Apple
Better sorry than safe

2012

"Better Sorry than Safe" was created through a risky creative process in which Jef explored the limits of music and sought to surprise listeners with unexpected sounds. While there are some recognizable elements such as blues and Brazilian rhythms, the album as a whole is characterized by a desire to avoid predictability.
Bedtime Stories

2010

"Bedtime Stories" is an album that uses music to evoke the calming and structured feeling of traditional bedtime stories for listeners who may have outgrown the practice. These stories are often told to children before bed as a way to relax and prepare for sleep, but are seen as childish as people grow older. This album aims to bring back this sense of ritual, using music to convey emotions and allowing for personal interpretation.
- Spotify
- Apple
Annual report

2008

Annual Report features piano improvisations that were created during a challenging time in Jef's life. The album is a representation of the difficulties and instability that Jef experienced in his personal relationships, professional endeavors, and overall outlook on life. These deeply personal improvisations capture the raw emotions and experiences of this tumultuous period, offering an intimate glimpse into Jef's inner world. This album is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates raw, introspective music and the cathartic power of art.
Changed

2007

"Changed" is a one-of-a-kind collection of improvisations inspired by well-known melodies. Each track on the album is a reimagining and revitalization of a well-known song or classical theme by Jef's inventive piano playing. This album encourages listeners to think about music in new ways and provides a new spin on some classic songs.
Piano improvisations

2006

"Piano Improvisations" is an album that demonstrates Jef's versatility as a pianist, with improvisations on well-known themes as well as original compositions. It gives listeners a taste of Jef's musical style and laid the groundwork for his successful career as a musician. This album served as Jef's introduction to the world and paved the way for a variety of future projects.