The Mike del Ferro - Podcast

Hosted by Mike del Ferro - Pianist & World Traveler

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Mar 2026

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About the show

Created by International Award winning Pianist and World Traveler Mike del Ferro, who played with Jazz legends like Toots Thielemans, Randy Brecker, Jack DeJohnette, Branford Marsalis and many others Mike is a world-renowned pianist and musical adventurer who has spent his life exploring the globe and immersing himself in different cultures. His passion for music has taken him to over a 100 countries, where he has absorbed the local sounds and incorporated them into his own unique style. With his vast musical knowledge and experience, Mike del Ferro now brings his talents to the world of podcasting. His podcast is a fascinating journey through the intersections of music and culture, featuring in-depth conversations with musicians and other creative individuals from around the world. Each episode is a window into the rich tapestry of global music, as Mike del Ferro shares his insights and experiences from his travels. Whether you're a musician, a music lover, or simply someone interested in learning about different cultures, this podcast is a must-listen. Join Mike del Ferro as he takes you on a musical journey around the world, sharing his passion for music and his love of cultural exchange. This is the perfect podcast for anyone who wants to explore the world through the universal language of music. Questions/requests for Topics, email to: mike@mikedelferro.com Or leave a voice message on https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferro Also listen to Mike's Music Business podcast: "Self Management for Musicians", on your favorite Podcast App. Mike's Music on all Audio, Video and Social platforms: https://solo.to/mikedelferro

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28 recent

March 22, 202637 min

29 My Special Friendship with Jack DeJohnette, beyond Music - with Frans van der Hoeven

(Many of you have asked if there are any recordings of our performances with Jack. There is footage available on my YouTube channel. You can find links to these videos—and everything else—by visiting my website at https://www.mikedelferro.nl )Masterdrummer Jack DeJohnette is universally recognized as one of the greatest legends in jazz history, but to me, he was something much more profound: a mentor, a major life influence, and a very close friend. Our connection went far beyond music only—I also had the deep privilege of knowing him and his family privately.In this special tribute episode of my Podcast, I sit down with my life time buddy and master bass player, Frans van der Hoeven. The reason I invited Frans to join me for this specific conversation is simple: the two of us had the incredible honor of playing several concerts with Jack.Surprisingly, my relationship with Jack didn't start in the "Jazz Scene"—we actually met through a family connection. From there, a beautiful friendship blossomed that deeply shaped both my personal life and my musical journey. Frans and I reminisce about the unforgettable moments we shared, including the concerts the three of us played together across the Netherlands, Italy, and Taiwan.About My Guest, Frans van der Hoeven: Frans is not just a dear friend, but a true heavyweight in the European jazz scene. A renowned bassist, composer, and educator, Frans has shared the stage with jazz royalty—including Clark Terry, Toots Thielemans, Woody Shaw, and of course, Jack DeJohnette. Join us as we celebrate the amazing, legendary human being that Jack DeJohnette truly was.Send me a text message with your questions, comments or requests for topics. My Music, Schedule, Piano Transcriptions(PDF) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.comI also host another Podcast: "Self Management and Networking for Musicians" , my successful clinic with short Episodes for Musicians with great tips for your Music Career. Mike del Ferro's YouTube ChannelListen to my music on Spotify, Apple Music and TidalInstagramFacebookPiano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by MikePiano TutorialsQuestions, comments, requests for topics of this Podcast: mike@mikedelferro.comOr send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferroTwitterTikTok

February 22, 20261 hr 14 min

28 Master Drummer Lucas van Merwijk: Latin Rhythms, Education & Chinese Triumphs.

Today, I’m sitting down with incredible drummer Lucas van Merwijk.In this episode, we look back at his impressive career behind the drums. We talk about his deep connection to Latin music, his passion for teaching the next generation of drummers, and the exciting projects he is working on right now. Since we both have a history of playing internationally, we also dive into some great stories about his unique experiences and massive success performing in China.Here’s what we chat about:His Musical Journey: Looking back at the biggest milestones in his career.The Latin Groove: Why Latin music is at the absolute heart of his drumming style.Music Education: His approach to teaching and passing on the craft.Current Projects: The bands, ensembles, and music he's creating today.Success in China: His experiences touring, playing, and making a name for himself in the Chinese music scene.Website Lucas van MerwijkSend me a text message with your questions, comments or requests for topics. My Music, Schedule, Piano Transcriptions(PDF) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.comI also host another Podcast: "Self Management and Networking for Musicians" , my successful clinic with short Episodes for Musicians with great tips for your Music Career. Mike del Ferro's YouTube ChannelListen to my music on Spotify, Apple Music and TidalInstagramFacebookPiano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by MikePiano TutorialsQuestions, comments, requests for topics of this Podcast: mike@mikedelferro.comOr send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferroTwitterTikTok

January 22, 202645 min

27 The Lyrical Bass of Paul Berner (feat. Stories of Lionel Hampton)

Paul Berner is known not just for who he has played with, but for how he plays—with a deep, resonant soulfulness that anchors every track. In this episode, we sit down to discuss his time with legends like Lionel Hampton, but we also dive deep into his craft. We explore how he develops his signature beautiful sound, his melodic approach to the bass, and the emotional depth he brings to the instrument.Visit Paul's WebsiteSend me a text message with your questions, comments or requests for topics. My Music, Schedule, Piano Transcriptions(PDF) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.comI also host another Podcast: "Self Management and Networking for Musicians" , my successful clinic with short Episodes for Musicians with great tips for your Music Career. Mike del Ferro's YouTube ChannelListen to my music on Spotify, Apple Music and TidalInstagramFacebookPiano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by MikePiano TutorialsQuestions, comments, requests for topics of this Podcast: mike@mikedelferro.comOr send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferroTwitterTikTok

January 7, 2026Episode 4155 min

26 World Class Swing & Stride Pianist: Bram Wijnands

In this episode, I sit down with my long-time friend and musical colleague, the incredible pianist Bram Wijnands. While we both started our journeys studying music together in the Netherlands, Bram took a path that led him straight to the cradle of jazz: Kansas City.Though he was born in the Netherlands, Bram has been living and playing in the US for decades, establishing himself as a true heavyweight in the Swing and Stride genres.We go way back to our student days, trading stories about our early musical education, but we also get technical. Bram gives a masterclass explanation of Erroll Garner’s distinctive style, breaking down exactly how Garner achieved that signature lag and rhythmic drive. And he plays some of his own arrangements.Watch Bram on YouTubeSend me a text message with your questions, comments or requests for topics. My Music, Schedule, Piano Transcriptions(PDF) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.comI also host another Podcast: "Self Management and Networking for Musicians" , my successful clinic with short Episodes for Musicians with great tips for your Music Career. Mike del Ferro's YouTube ChannelListen to my music on Spotify, Apple Music and TidalInstagramFacebookPiano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by MikePiano TutorialsQuestions, comments, requests for topics of this Podcast: mike@mikedelferro.comOr send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferroTwitterTikTok

December 28, 2025Episode 251 hr 34 min

25 Bulletproof Entrepreneurs: Pianist Mike del Ferro on Success, Discipline & Music (in Dutch)

In Dutch, but you can also watch this Episode on YouTube with English Subtitles or Listen with Automatic Translation. Pianist en Wereldreiziger Mike del Ferro vertelt openhartig over muziek, discipline en creatief ondernemen. Hij wordt geïnterviewd door advocaat en jurist Edgar Stam van "Team Juridische Zaken".Dit gesprek is onderdeel van de podcast "Bulletproof Ondernemers", waarin Edgar diverse ondernemers spreekt over hun uitdagingen en successen.🎙️ Host: Edgar Stam: https://hub.htjz.nl Connect with Edgar on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edgar-stam-329401/Edgar's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@BulletproofOndernemers🎧 Luister / volg deze Podcast op Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0DsWVa23ltilGXPZBjGltq?si=9a9f60d618754cb3Wat als je creativiteit kunt inzetten als businessmodel — wereldwijd?Mike del Ferro reisde door 120 landen, speelde met de grootste artiesten ter werelden ontdekte dat muziek niet alleen kunst is, maar een ondernemersvaardigheid.Hij bouwde een internationale carrière zonder plan, zonder zekerheid,maar met discipline, nieuwsgierigheid en totale toewijding aan zijn vak.Je hoeft geen wereldster te zijn om groot te denken.Je hoeft geen perfecte strategie te hebben om wereldwijd impact te maken.Je moet alleen durven vertrouwen op je unieke geluid — letterlijk of figuurlijk.Mike laat zien dat elke ondernemer — creatief of niet —kan groeien door discipline + nieuwsgierigheid + lef.Van de favela’s van Brazilië tot opera-huizen in Europa,van jazzclubs tot grote festivals —Mike gebruikte elke plek als springplank,en elke ontmoeting als inspiratie.Zijn carrière is geen toeval.Het is het resultaat van duizenden uren vakmanschapen beslissen dat je blijft spelen — óók als niemand luistert.In dit gesprek met Edgar Stam deelt Mike:1️⃣ Hoe je creativiteit omzet in een schaalbare carrière2️⃣ Waarom discipline het grote verschil maakt tussen talent en succes3️⃣ Hoe je overal ter wereld kansen ziet — en pakt4️⃣ Wat AI betekent voor muzikanSend me a text message with your questions, comments or requests for topics. My Music, Schedule, Piano Transcriptions(PDF) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.comI also host another Podcast: "Self Management and Networking for Musicians" , my successful clinic with short Episodes for Musicians with great tips for your Music Career. Mike del Ferro's YouTube ChannelListen to my music on Spotify, Apple Music and TidalInstagramFacebookPiano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by MikePiano TutorialsQuestions, comments, requests for topics of this Podcast: mike@mikedelferro.comOr send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferroTwitterTikTok

December 17, 2025Episode 2445 min

24 Echoes of Toots Thielemans - Mike del Ferro (yours truly) being interviewed about Toots

I recently sat down with Alexandre Piret, a dedicated researcher and musicologist who is currently conducting in-depth academic research on the life and music of Toots Thielemans.In this episode, which is part of my Podcast series "Echoes of Toots Thielemans", where I interview Harmonica Players, Alexandre interviews me about my ten-year collaboration with Toots. It was a humbling experience to revisit those memories—not just the technical aspects of accompanying such a unique instrument, but the personal moments we shared on tours around the world.We discuss the nuances of Toots' playing, the chemistry we built on stage, and the "echoes" of his influence that I still feel in my own music today. If you are interested in the history of jazz or the legacy of Toots, I hope you enjoy this conversation.Send me a text message with your questions, comments or requests for topics. My Music, Schedule, Piano Transcriptions(PDF) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.comI also host another Podcast: "Self Management and Networking for Musicians" , my successful clinic with short Episodes for Musicians with great tips for your Music Career. Mike del Ferro's YouTube ChannelListen to my music on Spotify, Apple Music and TidalInstagramFacebookPiano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by MikePiano TutorialsQuestions, comments, requests for topics of this Podcast: mike@mikedelferro.comOr send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferroTwitterTikTok

February 12, 2025Episode 2353 min

23 Echoes of Toots Thielemans: Adam Glasser from South Africa / UK.

Adam Glasser: Jazz Harmonica, South African Grooves & Musical Adventures!In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Adam Glasser, a musician whose chromatic harmonica playing bridges the worlds of bebop, township jazz, and global fusion. Born in South Africa and based in the UK, Adam has carved out a unique voice, drawing inspiration from the legendary Toots Thielemans while forging his own musical path.We dive into his fascinating journey, from working with icons like Sting, Joe Zawinul, and Abdullah Ibrahim (Dollar Brand) to exploring the deep grooves of South African jazz. Adam shares personal stories about his collaborations, his influences, and much more. Adam Glasser's Website: http://www.adamglassermusic.comThis was a long-distance interview, and at times, the sound quality isn't perfect. Apologies for any interruptions!Send me a text message with your questions, comments or requests for topics. My Music, Schedule, Piano Transcriptions(PDF) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.comI also host another Podcast: "Self Management and Networking for Musicians" , my successful clinic with short Episodes for Musicians with great tips for your Music Career. Mike del Ferro's YouTube ChannelListen to my music on Spotify, Apple Music and TidalInstagramFacebookPiano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by MikePiano TutorialsQuestions, comments, requests for topics of this Podcast: mike@mikedelferro.comOr send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferroTwitterTikTok

December 19, 2024Episode 221 hr 26 min

22 More then 40 Years of Excellence: Marco Riaskoff & The World’s Best Pianists

I have the pleasure of talking with Marco Riaskoff. For over 40 years, Marco was the driving force behind the legendary Master Classical Pianist (Meesterpianisten) series at the world-famous Concertgebouw in Amsterdam. This iconic series has hosted all generations of piano greats—from titans like Vladimir Horowitz, Martha Argerich and Alfred Brendel to modern masters like Daniil Trifonov, Maria Joāo Pires and Arcadi Volodos.Marco has a treasure trove of incredible stories to share, shaped by decades of working with the most extraordinary pianists in history. It was a challenge to edit this interview—there was so much fascinating material—but I think what remains paints a vivid picture of this remarkable man and his deep passion for music, especially the piano. Enjoy! Send me a text message with your questions, comments or requests for topics. My Music, Schedule, Piano Transcriptions(PDF) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.comI also host another Podcast: "Self Management and Networking for Musicians" , my successful clinic with short Episodes for Musicians with great tips for your Music Career. Mike del Ferro's YouTube ChannelListen to my music on Spotify, Apple Music and TidalInstagramFacebookPiano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by MikePiano TutorialsQuestions, comments, requests for topics of this Podcast: mike@mikedelferro.comOr send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferroTwitterTikTok

August 24, 2024Episode 2153 min

21: Strings of the Desert: The Musical Journey of Kamal Musallam

In this episode, I dive into the world of Kamal Musallam, a pioneering Ud player who seamlessly blends the rich traditions of Middle Eastern sounds with the innovative energy of jazz, rock, and beyond. He collaborated with Billy Cobham and many other jazz greats. Join me as Kamal shares his journey from his early influences to his unique fusion style that defies genre boundaries. We’ll explore his creative process, the cultural inspirations behind his work, and much more.We will be touring and recording together in the fall of 2024, stay tuned!Send me a text message with your questions, comments or requests for topics. My Music, Schedule, Piano Transcriptions(PDF) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.comI also host another Podcast: "Self Management and Networking for Musicians" , my successful clinic with short Episodes for Musicians with great tips for your Music Career. Mike del Ferro's YouTube ChannelListen to my music on Spotify, Apple Music and TidalInstagramFacebookPiano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by MikePiano TutorialsQuestions, comments, requests for topics of this Podcast: mike@mikedelferro.comOr send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferroTwitterTikTok

June 19, 202447 min

20 Echoes of Toots Thielemans - Harmonica Talks - Gabriel Grossi from Brazil

I had the great honor to play with Toots Thielemans for 10 years, he passed away in 2016 and the last years I have been doing a Toots tribute all over the world with many outstanding harmonica players. In these episodes - Echoes of Toots Thielemans - I talk to harmonica players about their musical journey, how Toots influenced their music and how they find their own voice on the Harmonica with such an influential musician like Toots.In this episode I talk to the Brazilian Harmonica Player Gabriel Grossi, who played and recorded with Jacob Collier, Wynton Marsalis, Snarly Puppy and countless Brazilian icons like Hermeto Pascoal, Djavan, Ivan Lins and many others.Follow Gabriel on instagram: @Gabrielgrossi and his website.(This interview was recorded online/long distance, at the very end I lost Gabriel's connection, apologies for the abrupt ending. )Send me a text message with your questions, comments or requests for topics. My Music, Schedule, Piano Transcriptions(PDF) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.comI also host another Podcast: "Self Management and Networking for Musicians" , my successful clinic with short Episodes for Musicians with great tips for your Music Career. Mike del Ferro's YouTube ChannelListen to my music on Spotify, Apple Music and TidalInstagramFacebookPiano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by MikePiano TutorialsQuestions, comments, requests for topics of this Podcast: mike@mikedelferro.comOr send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferroTwitterTikTok