Loes Rusch

I am a PHD-student working as part of the University of Amsterdam research team. I obtained my M.A. at the University of Amsterdam, followed by a B.A. saxophone at the Jazz Department of the Conservatory of Amsterdam. For my master’s thesis Jazzpracticum: On the Institutionalization of Jazz Education in the Netherlands I studied the relation between formalized jazz education and concepts of national thought and identity in jazz.

As a part of the Rhythm Changes PHD Studentship I will further explore Dutch jazz cultures, focussing on national stereotyping, cultural identification and the relationship between global, national en local genres. My research will include mapping and collating of jazz-related data, including oral histories and musical compositions.

In addition to my work for Rhythm Changes I will continue to teach saxophone, organise workshops, and play baritone saxophone in various jazz and pop groups.