Willem Breuker, Dutch Composer and Bandleader, Dies at 65
Willem Breuker, a Dutch composer, multireedist and bandleader whose jump-cut style and theatrical panache made him a contrarian hero of European jazz, died on July 23 in Amsterdam. He was 65.
His death was announced on the Web site of his band, the Willem Breuker Kollektief. No cause was given.
During more than 35 years at the helm of the Kollektief, a well-traveled ensemble of 10 or 11 pieces, Mr. Breuker pursued an almost textbook postmodern agenda. His compositions drew from both high and low culture, throwing Kurt Weill into the blender with ragtag circus music.
