Ekseption

Ekseption was a Dutch rock band founded in the late 1960s, known for their innovative blend of classical music and rock. Their unique approach to combining classical compositions with rock elements earned them a distinct place in the progressive rock genre.

Formation and Country:

• Formation Year: 1967
• Country: Netherlands

Members:

Original Members:

• Rick van der Linden – Keyboards, piano, organ
• Jules de Corte – Guitar, vocals
• Kees van der Waal – Bass guitar
• Ton van Bergeyk – Drums

Later Members:

• Gerrit Veenje – Guitar, vocals
• Gertjan van der Veen – Drums
• Chris Koerts – Guitar, vocals
• Adrián Varela – Bass guitar

Career Overview:

Early Years: Ekseption was formed in 1967 and quickly gained recognition for their pioneering fusion of classical music with rock. They initially gained fame with their adaptation of classical compositions by composers such as Beethoven and Bach.

Notable Albums:

1. Ekseption 1 (1969)
   • Notable Tracks:
     • “The 5th” (adaptation of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5)
     • “Air” (adaptation of Bach’s Air on the G String)
2. Ekseption 2 (1970)
   • Notable Tracks:
     • “The 4th” (adaptation of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 4)
     • “Rhapsody in Blue” (adaptation of George Gershwin’s composition)
3. Ekseption 3 (1971)
   • Notable Tracks:
     • “The 1st” (adaptation of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1)
     • “Spartacus” (inspired by the work of Prokofiev)
4. The 4th (1974)
   • Notable Tracks:
     • “Rhapsody in Blue” (adaptation of Gershwin)
     • “The 9th Symphony” (adaptation of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9)

Later Years:

• Transition: Throughout the 1970s, Ekseption continued to explore their classical rock fusion but experienced several lineup changes and shifts in musical direction.
• Disbandment: The band eventually disbanded in the late 1970s, with members pursuing various solo projects and other musical endeavors.

Discography Highlights:

1. Ekseption 1 (1969)
   • Notable Tracks:
     • “The 5th”
     • “Air”
2. Ekseption 2 (1970)
   • Notable Tracks:
     • “The 4th”
     • “Rhapsody in Blue”
3. Ekseption 3 (1971)
   • Notable Tracks:
     • “The 1st”
     • “Spartacus”
4. The 4th (1974)
   • Notable Tracks:
     • “Rhapsody in Blue”
     • “The 9th Symphony”

Interesting Details:

• Classical Fusion: Ekseption was among the first bands to blend classical music with rock, creating a unique and innovative sound that influenced the progressive rock genre.
• Influence: Their approach to adapting classical compositions for rock instrumentation set them apart from their contemporaries and earned them a dedicated following.
• Legacy: Ekseption’s work remains influential, particularly in the genre of classical rock fusion, and continues to be appreciated by fans of both classical and rock music.

Music Themes:

• Classical Adaptations: The band is known for their adaptations of classical compositions, integrating them with rock instrumentation to create a distinct sound.
• Progressive Rock: Their music often features complex arrangements and a blend of various musical styles, characteristic of the progressive rock genre.
• Fusion: Ekseption’s fusion of classical music with rock elements showcases their innovative approach and versatility as musicians.

Ekseption’s pioneering work in blending classical music with rock has left a lasting impact on the progressive rock genre, and their unique sound continues to be celebrated by fans and musicians alike.