music
April 27, 2026
‘It needs to be loud’: Jozef Van Wissem’s one-man mission to make the lute rock again
The Dutch ex-punk and Jim Jarmusch bandmate talks about his passion to free up a hidebound repertoire and make its strings ‘a real pop instrument’
TL;DR
- Jozef Van Wissem is a contemporary lutenist known for his extensive body of work and experimental approach to the instrument.
- He aims to reposition the lute as a 'real pop instrument' by challenging academic norms and incorporating modern techniques and amplification.
- Van Wissem's musical background includes early involvement in Dutch punk scenes, influencing his nonconformist attitude towards the lute.
- He has collaborated with figures like Jim Jarmusch and composed scores for films, pushing the boundaries of lute performance.
- His innovative methods, such as using built-in microphones and unconventional tunings, often clash with traditional lutenists.