4Beat biography
Percussion for kids
Knallen Next Level!

4Beat, the dynamic percussion ensemble, proudly presents Knallen! Next Level – a magical music theatre performance for young audiences.

After three highly successful and energetic shows, the unstoppable drummers of 4Beat are back with a brand-new, explosive production!

Children are invited to complete rhythmic missions and become percussion heroes. Knallen! Next Level is a vibrant melting pot of musical traditions that will excite the senses. Featuring both traditional and modern percussion instruments, kids will explore rhythms ranging from exhilarating African grooves to infectious Latin-American beats. At 4Beat, we believe in the power of diversity – and it’s reflected in the ensemble itself. Don’t miss this irresistible experience!

The four percussionists of 4Beat introduce young audiences to the world of drums and rhythms from across the globe. Explosive beats from Africa, Asia, and Latin America are fused with DJ sounds, oriental percussion, vocals, and dance.


Audience Reactions

Dear 4Beat Knallen,
We came to your performance at the Bijlmer Parktheater last Saturday and had an amazing afternoon. We chose the show because my nephew loves music, singing, and dancing – and your performance was beautifully put together with great rhythms, a perfect mix of listening and participating. When we got home, he immediately started experimenting with cups and the kitchen table!

Thank you for such a fun and inspiring afternoon full of music and joy – it was absolutely delightful!
– Maria van der Liet


Dear 4Beaters,
What a fantastic performance last Saturday at the Bijlmer Parktheater! My 7-year-old daughter is obsessed with music and rhythm, and your show completely captivated her. She sat in awe at first, then danced her heart out. The audience interaction was incredible – it was so nice to see how you engaged everyone, young and old!

We’ve been practicing rhythms at home on pots and pans ever since. It's amazing how you make music so accessible to everyone. Thank you so much for the inspiration – we’ll definitely be back!
– Warm regards, Linda Jansen


Dear 4Beat Knallen Next Level,
A big thank you for the amazing afternoon last weekend at the Bijlmer Parktheater. My grandchildren, aged 5 and 8, were completely enchanted by your performance. The energy was infectious, and the mix of listening, learning, and participating made it an unforgettable experience.

Your way of making music brings so much joy and inspiration. The highlight? When my youngest grandson shouted, “Grandma, I want to be a drummer too!” You truly sparked something in us.

Please keep doing what you do – you make music a celebration!
– Best wishes, Jessy

 


Meet the 4Beat Musicians

Gianna Tam (Suriname) is the daughter of percussionist Lucas van Merwijk. For the past 15 years, she played with Drums United. Last year, she performed in Edsilia Rombley’s show and appeared as guest percussionist with The Ladies of Soul. She currently sings backing vocals for Trijntje Oosterhuis.

Alper Kekec (Turkey) is a virtuoso on mystical oriental percussion. He studied at the Conservatory in Izmir, Turkey, and has been teaching at Codarts Conservatory in Rotterdam since 2006. Like Gianna Tam, he’s a core member of the percussion group Drums United, with whom he has toured worldwide.

Mr. Jetfly (Suriname), a.k.a. Marlon Francis, is an experienced multi-genre musician proud of his Surinamese heritage. He has performed with Surinamese superstars La Rouge and Kenny B, and is known for his sold-out 4TheCulture concerts celebrating Suriname’s independence.

DJ Charlie den Hertog (Netherlands) graduated as a sound producer/rapper from the Herman Brood Academy in Utrecht and completed the Sound Education program. As a DJ and producer, he has worked with a wide range of acts and productions, including 4Beat.