Tijn Huylebroeck (°1986)

It quickly became clear that music would form the core of my life. From the age of three, I was already playing and experimenting with music, programming sounds, and losing myself in the fascination and enthusiasm sparked by captivating melodies. Pianos, MIDI sequencers, and the wonder in my eyes when I heard intriguing music became my world.  

As a child, I took music lessons, starting with music theory, piano, and guitar at the Conservatory in Bruges. Later, I attended secondary school at the Kunsthumaniora in Ghent (now MuDa), where I was first introduced to jazz. During this time, I joined a few big bands as a pianist and bassist. I discovered the music of Sammy Nestico, heard Bossa Nova for the first time, and was hooked.  

When I started my first year at the conservatory in Brussels, something held me back. I felt overwhelmed and intimidated. Quietly, I stepped away. Around that time, I began developing an interest in piano technology. That’s how I came into contact with Piano’s Maene, where I was fortunate to receive training and work. After four intense years, I decided to establish my own business as an independent piano technician. While piano technology remained the focus, my hunger for music gradually resurfaced.  

By 2015, I felt ready to start preparing and transporting my own pianos for concerts. The two worlds—piano technology and music—came together, leading to many fascinating music projects (see elsewhere on the website).  

In recent years, personal challenges prompted me to reorient myself and prioritize what truly mattered. It was time to give music a more prominent place in my life. After a spontaneous audition, I was offered a postgraduate spot at the Royal Academy of Music in London for 2025. Unfortunately, Brexit posed significant financial barriers, making it unattainable. However, the recognition remains a lasting source of inspiration.  

This year holds exciting possibilities. New music projects are taking shape (more on that later), the website continues to evolve, and a blog is being developed to share stories, big and small, from both the present and the past.  
Feel free to explore the website. It’s not promoted on social media, allowing visitors to engage with it at their own pace and discretion.  

You’re always welcome to visit my music home in Wenduine. Give me a heads-up, and I’ll have soup or spaghetti ready. A couple of live piano tunes are always an option too.  
And for those paying attention, you might spot me in a completely different capacity somewhere in the broader Ostend area. A “free ride” for those who catch me in action!