Emanuel Van Mieghem

Born in Brussels (Belgium) on January 6, 1994, Emanuel Van Mieghem started playing the bass at the age of 15. He became passionate about rock, blues, funk, soul, and reggae music, purchasing an electric bass with his savings. Emanuel taught himself to play music by ear, playing along with his favorite records, and forming rock and pop bands with his high school peers. Quickly realizing that playing music was his lifelong passion, he dedicated himself to it.

At 16, he took the entry exam for the Kunsthumaniora Brussel (Art High School Brussels), where he was admitted. There, he had the opportunity to enhance his knowledge in music theory, solfeggio, instruments, and art history. Inspired by his jazz bass teacher Janos Bruneel, Emanuel decided to take up the double bass at the age of 17.

Following his studies at Kunsthumaniora Brussels, Emanuel enrolled at the Lemmensinstituut Leuven to study the fundamentals of jazz double bass playing with bass player Jos Machtel. He also participated in ensemble lessons with renowned drummer Dré Pallemaerts.

The following year, Emanuel moved to Brussels, a vibrant music scene where he could find many playing opportunities. He continued his studies at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels under the guidance of bass player Bart Denolf.

After that, Emanuel pursued studies at the conservatory of Antwerp, where he was awarded the 'Oranjebeurs', an accolade for young talented musicians. He completed his studies with distinction under the guidance of both jazz and classically trained bass players, including Nicolas Thys, Lode Leire, Nathan Wouters, and Brice Soniano.

Additionally, he received valuable ensemble lessons from esteemed musicians such as Kurt Van Herck, Free Desmyter, Frederik Leroux, Fabrice Alleman, Manuel Hermia, Teun Verbruggen, Erik Vermeulen, Ben Sluijs, Erik Thielemans, and others.

In 2023, he won the 'Prix de la meilleure composition' with his own project 'Mojo Jojo' at the Festival de Jazz d’Avignon.

Additionally, Emanuel leads his own project called 'Mojo Jojo', for which he composes music. Their debut album, 'Another Day in the Life', is set to release in June 2024.

Discography:

- "Luwte" by Suura // released on May 6, 2020

- "Live at the Koer" by Suura // released on December 16, 2022

- "Stuve" by Suura // released on May 10, 2023