In the organizer's words:

The Pfister/Uhlemann Jazz Orchestra (PUJO), led by Kevin Pfister (piano) and Noel Uhlemann (conducting), is a new Amsterdam-based big band that brings together some of Europe's most promising musicians. The band consists of current and former members of renowned ensembles such as the BuJazzO, the NJJO (Dutch National Youth Jazz Orchestra) and the Jong Metropole Orkest and musicians who have already played in orchestras such as the WDR Big Band, the Jazz Orchestra of the Concertgebouw and the Metropole Orkest. Many of them are also winners of prestigious competitions such as the Steinway Advancement Award, the Keep an Eye Outstanding Talent Award and the Prinses Christina Concours.

PUJO's original repertoire offers a fresh perspective on the big band tradition, fusing lyrical melodies with rich contemporary harmonies and new forms. Inspired by modern big band composers such as Maria Schneider, Kenny Wheeler and Vince Mendoza, their pieces combine sophistication and driving energy in equal measure.

In November 2025, their debut EP Introducing PUJO, recorded in March of the same year, was released as part of a release concert. The concert at Z87 is part of their first international tour through Germany.

The band

Noel Uhlemann - conductor, composer, bandleader

Diana Dzhabbar - alto saxophone (lead)

Leonardo Boccardo - alto saxophone

Joep Grotendorst - tenor saxophone

Egor Tokarev - tenor saxophone

Fabian van der Knaap - baritone saxophone

Pilvi Kokkonen - trumpet (lead)

Jelle Janswaard - trumpet (lead)

Fabian Schneider - trumpet

Ernesto Montenegro - trumpet

Charlie Philips - trumpet

Michel Tuinman - trombone (lead)

Joan Codina - trombone

Odysseas Dellis - trombone

Valters Ņevzorovs - bass trombone

Kevin Pfister - piano, composer, bandleader

Adolfo Marineto - guitar

Samuel Kiel - bass

Jonatan Kuhlmann - drums