Why did you choose to play piano?
I didn’t really choose it but, like my two older brothers, I was forced by my parents to practice at least 30 minutes per day when I was growing up. It wasn’t until much later that I actually started to like it.

Who’s your musical idol and why?
Oscar Peterson. He has a superb timing and he fills his bebop lines with a lot of blues. I like blues and it is essential for a good jazz musician.

What are you bringing to the Jazz Up Festival?
Expect to hear some pieces written by my idol Oscar Peterson, and also some Chopin arrangements.

Talking about Chopin, we heard that you’re putting a jazzy twist on his works?
It’s a surprise. You can find out more about that in my new CD or come to see the performance.

What’s next for you?
I’ll still be travelling a lot during the new few months. I’ll play in Japan, South America, New York, Poland and Siberia. Next year, however, I’ll probably perform the Chopin program in the theaters back in my home country the Netherlands.

Catch Peter Beets at Jazz Up Bangkok Festival