Raised among radio, live orchestras and swing music Derk de Kloet developed into an international jazz and swing vocalist with the charisma of a contemporary crooner. As the son of Dutch radio legend Co de Kloet, known for programs such as Tijd voor Teenagers, he was immersed from an early age in the world of entertainment, jazz, and live performance. He began performing with Kinderen voor Kinderen 2 a period he describes as his youth academy for entertainment and spent many hours in VARA’s Studio 1 where the program Music from Studio 1 was produced and where he was inspired by the sound of the legendary VARA Dance Orchestra. Music has remained a constant throughout his life. Alongside singing Derk also became an accomplished ballroom dancer. Together with his wife as his dance partner he competed internationally and appeared at the prestigious Blackpool Dance Festival.

 

In addition to his artistic career Derk is an entrepreneur and performance coach. Working with professionals, leaders, and teams in the areas of communication, team dynamics, professional presence, and performing under pressure. Music plays a central role in his methodology, helping people experience collaboration and high performance in a direct and engaging way.
 

Derk de Kloet is a Dutch jazz and swing vocalist and bandleader with the charisma of a contemporary crooner. Known for his effortless stage presence, dynamic energy, and charismatic connection with audiences. Inspired by artists such as Dean Martin and Nat King Cole, he blends jazz, swing, and lounge influences into an international contemporary jazz and swing live experience with his own band. Audiences are taken on an evening filled with swing, storytelling, and interaction. His performances combine classic elegance with the energy of modern live entertainment, bringing the spirit of classic swing era entertainment into a contemporary setting. For Derk, rhythm and timing are at the heart of music, communication, and human interaction.

 

2024 was a year of major steps. Derk appeared as a guest artist in Laura Fygi’s All Of Me tour and live show. The successful collaboration evolved into a valued musical friendship and further strengthened his presence within the international jazz and swing scene.

 

In 2026, Derk recorded an album together with Frits Landesbergen and his European Swing Quintet. The project marks a new chapter, bringing his energetic swing style to theaters, jazz venues, and festivals.
 

With every performance, Derk brings together musicianship, elegance, energy, and the timeless spirit of swing.

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