Jan Akkerman, the renowned Dutch guitarist celebrated for his innovative fusion of rock, jazz, blues, and classical music, is scheduled to perform at The Stables Theatre in Milton Keynes on Wednesday, 5 February 2025, at 8:00 pm. This event offers a unique opportunity to experience the artistry of a musician whose career spans over five decades.

Akkerman gained international acclaim as a founding member of the progressive rock band Focus, active from 1969 to 1976. During this period, the band released seminal albums such as Focus Plays Focus (1970) and Focus II (1971), the latter reaching number two on the UK charts and achieving gold status in the United States. The album featured the hit single “Hocus Pocus,” which has been featured in various films and television shows, including Hot Fuzz, Baby Driver, and Top Gear.

In 1973, Melody Maker readers voted Akkerman as the “World’s Best Guitarist,” placing him ahead of contemporaries like Eric Clapton, Steve Howe, and Jimmy Page. His versatility and technical prowess have led to collaborations with a diverse array of artists, including Alan Price, Jack Bruce, and Ice-T. Notable musicians have praised Akkerman’s talent; Brian May regards him as a “real role model,” and B.B. King expressed admiration for his exceptional playing abilities.

Akkerman’s extensive solo career includes over 30 albums, with his most recent release being Close Beauty in 2019. In 2020, a comprehensive 26-CD retrospective box set was issued, highlighting the breadth of his musical contributions.

For this performance at The Stables Theatre, Akkerman will be accompanied by an accomplished ensemble:

• Coen Molenaar on keyboards, a versatile musician with expertise in jazz, fusion, and neo-soul.
• Marijn van den Berg on drums, a seasoned performer with extensive experience in television and session work.
• David de Marez Oyens on bass, an educator and performer proficient in jazz, pop, and fusion genres.

The Stables Theatre, located at Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU, provides an intimate setting renowned for its exceptional acoustics, making it an ideal venue to appreciate Akkerman’s intricate compositions and masterful guitar work.

Tickets for Jan Akkerman at The Stables Theatre are available for purchase. For detailed information on ticket pricing and booking policies, please consult The Stables’ official resources.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness a live performance by Jan Akkerman, a guitarist whose innovative approach continues to influence and inspire musicians worldwide.

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