Hans van Oosterhout (1965-2025)

Born in the Netherlands in 1965, Hans van Oosterhout began drumming at the age of seven, deeply inspired by the phenomenal Huub Janssen - a true magician on the drum kit. His father soon introduced him to the renowned drum teacher Toon Oomen in his hometown of Oosterhout (NB). There, Hans joined a percussion ensemble alongside Marc Stoop and Hans Eijkenaar, forming an inspiring trio that pushed each other to new musical heights.

From an early age, Hans displayed extraordinary talent. He was soon performing advanced pieces such as Salt Peanuts and the Elvin Solo from Dante Agostini’s Volume II. His rapid progress led him to the Rotterdam Conservatory, where he graduated with top honors - two perfect scores - and was immediately offered a teaching position. He remained a respected educator there for decades, continuing his work when the school became Codarts, and also teaching at the Fontys Conservatory in Tilburg.

Hans quickly established himself as one of the most sought-after jazz drummers in the Benelux and beyond. Over the years, he performed with a dazzling list of international artists, including Toots Thielemans, Philip Catherine, Ralph Moore, Mark Murphy, Spike Robinson, Nat Adderley, Bob Malach, Victor Lazlo, Lee Konitz, Rick Margitza, Denise Jannah, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Kenny Wheeler, Marlena Shaw, Benny Golson, and Johnny Griffin, among many others.

After several years as a member of the Jack van Poll Trio, Hans went on to perform regularly with ensembles such as the Philip Catherine Quartet, Rob van Bavel Trio, Ronald Douglas Quartet, Ivan Paduart Quartet, Nathalie Loriers Trio, Hein van de Geyn’s Baseline, Enrico Pieranunzi Trio, and Dee Dee Bridgewater. His musical journeys took him all over Europe and to stages in the United States, Canada, South Africa, and China.

An active studio musician as well, Hans’s playing can be heard on more than 60 albums. Critics and fellow musicians alike praised his remarkable flexibility, his tasteful and musical approach, and his ability to adapt seamlessly to any musical context - always bringing sensitivity, enthusiasm, and an open mind.

In 1998, Belgian Jazz Magazine named him European Jazz Drummer of the Year, and in 2022, he received the Slagwerkkrant Poll Award in the category All Time Favorite.

About 18 years before his passing, Hans was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. In a long and difficult struggle, he was forced - much against his will - to gradually step back from performing. Despite this, his legacy as a musician, teacher, and friend remained profound.

Hans van Oosterhout passed away in 2025, at the age of 60. He is remembered not only for his world-class musicianship but also for his humor, warmth, and generosity of spirit - qualities that touched everyone who had the privilege to make music with him.