Bio
Enter a musical realm where boundaries blur, intertwining gentle expressions and intense, energetic saxophone sounds. Andrius Dereviancenko is a saxophonist who masterfully blends diverse styles and effortlessly merges acoustic and live electronics, forming him into a versatile artist with a truly unique sound.
Andrius embarked on his musical journey when he left his hometown of Klaipėda, Lithuania, to pursue a bachelor's degree in jazz saxophone at the prestigious Conservatorium van Amsterdam. Amsterdam's vibrant music scene provided the perfect backdrop for his exploration of self‑expression and musical growth. Immersed in the city's thriving community of free improvised music, Andrius delved into the realms of groove, experimentation, and his own original compositions. Although he initially began his musical exploration with a traditional Lithuanian folk instrument called the Birbynė, it was the allure of jazz recordings that prompted him to switch to the saxophone, igniting a lifelong passion for jazz and improvised music and driving his tireless pursuit of a unique artistic voice.
Andrius's journey is one marked by exploration, development, and recognition. In 2013, his quartet was honored with the esteemed Leiden Jazz Award, solidifying their exceptional talent and dedication. In 2016, he seized the spotlight at Tremplin Jazz Avignon with the band Morgan Freeman, earning the Public and Best Composition prizes, showcasing his ability to connect with audiences and create captivating compositions.
Recognition has followed Andrius on his path of artistic growth. In 2022, the trash jazz group Litterjug, in which Andrius plays a vital role, received nominations in two categories at the prestigious Danish Music Awards Jazz: Best Experimental Album of the Year and New Jazz Name of the Year. This recognition solidifies their innovative approach and unconventional sound, showcasing their willingness to break musical barriers.
Collaboration has been an integral part of Andrius's musical journey, allowing him to expand his horizons and embrace diverse perspectives. He has worked with musicians from the Netherlands such as Wilbert de Joode, Michael Vatcher, Onno Govaert, Jasper Stadhouders, and Franky Douglas, as well as collaborating with African artists like Berima Amo and Etuk Ubong, celebrating the richness of musical diversity and fostering a global musical dialogue.
Andrius's discography showcases his evolution as an artist, with each release reflecting his artistic growth and willingness to experiment. His latest project, 12 Tribes of Mars, funded by Space is the Place Productions, brings together the realms of reggae and free improvisation in a captivating fusion. This bold exploration highlights Andrius's ability to blend genres and challenge the boundaries of his instrument, creating innovative and captivating music. Additionally, as the band leader of Cocktail Party Attack, he released Anthem of Joy on the TryTone label, captivating audiences with his unique musical vision.
Currently, Andrius is actively engaged in incorporating electronics into his saxophone performances, pushing the boundaries of sound and exploring new sonic territories. He is immersed in the process of merging various artistic mediums, combining audiovisuals to create immersive and multi‑sensory experiences for his audiences. Andrius has graced renowned stages and festivals, leaving a lasting impression on the experimental music scene — from Bimhuis and the North Sea Jazz Festival to InJazz, Vilnius Mama Jazz, Palermo Jazz Festival, Avignon Jazz, and the Interplanetary Night: Solo Extravaganza.
As Andrius's musical journey continues to unfold, his unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries, embracing diverse influences, and connecting with audiences through the power of music remains at the core of his artistic endeavors. With each new project, collaboration, and performance, he forges a path that is uniquely his own, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.