DJ Maestro about upcoming shows and a new album release

From smoky jazz clubs to festival main stages, few DJs move between music worlds as DJ Maestro, the man behind Jazz De Ville platform and a curator with a “golden ear”. With upcoming shows in his hometown of Amsterdam and a brand new release on the way, we caught up with DJ Maestro (Martijn Barkhuis) to talk gigs and the deep musical trip he’s taking fans on in 2025.

Jazz clubs or festivals?

“In a jazz club, I can play everything I want. I’m creating an atmosphere and sometimes, just seeing someone tapping their feet is enough.” - Martijn Barkhuis

But when it comes to the festival stage, the energy changes and he loves to make people dance. That’s what he tries to accomplish with a big crowd. Though sometimes he catches himself playing more upbeat tracks when he would rather play something more musical.

Amsterdam’s music scene

Based in Amsterdam, Maestro is no stranger to the city’s eclectic and crowded nightlife scene.

“There are so many parties, DJs and clubs, just like Berlin or London, that you really have to distinguish yourself.” - Martijn Barkhuis

So what’s the secret? Play what you like most, produce your own tracks, build your own audience. That’s the only way to succeed, he adds.

Upcoming gigs you shouldn’t miss

Maestro has a few must-see shows lined up in Amsterdam this year, and they promise something special.

On June 26th, he’s playing an all-vinyl set, presenting his upcoming album Deep Trip for friends and fans at listening bar Cue in an audiophile setting. Fun fact: just 100 meters away from one of his favorite music stores - Concerto, where Maestro will do an in-store set as well on Sunday June 29th from 16:30 till 18:00. Champagne provided!

Deep Trip record

Maestro’s new album will be released by legendary Black Hole Recordings (founded by Tiësto and Arny Bink in 1997). When Maestro met Arny last year, while being introduced to each other by Paul Oakendfold, they met in a mutual love for dance music. A couple of conversations later, they agreed in starting a new series of mix albums. Deep Trip will be released as a continuously mix on cd and as a triple vinyl album with unmixed tracks.

Staying connected

You can keep up with his tour dates and mixes at djmaestro.nl, and dive into his 24/7 online jazz station Jazz De Ville, which features four different music streams to match your mood.

Pictures: Dj Maestro