Galland, Stéphane (B)
ADAMS DRUMMERS FESTIVAL - 18 september 2005
Stéphane Galland was born on October 27, 1969, in Berchem-Sainte-Agathe (Brussels). He began classical percussion lessons at the Huy Conservatory (Belgium) at the age of 9. By 11, he was already performing jazz with musicians such as Eric Legnini. At 17, he earned diplomas in all major classical subjects while completing high school.
As a teenager, he played with the biggest names in Belgian jazz. Later, he sought new musical experiences. He formed a trio with Eric Legnini and Jean-Louis Rassinfosse, performing at many festivals in Belgium and abroad.
In 1988, he met Pierre Van Dormael, and together with Fabrizio Cassol and Michel Hatzigeorgiou, they performed at the Kaaï Club in Brussels. For three years, they formed the group Nasa Na. In 1991, they traveled to Central Africa to study the music of Aka Pygmies. In 1992, after Pierre left, the trio evolved into Aka Moon.
Stéphane also co-founded "Greetings From Mercury" with Jeroen Van Herzeele and Peter Hertmans. Their album "At the Crossroads" came out in 1994. With Otti Van Der Werf and Steven Segers joining in 1998, they released their first album under the group's name. In 1999, Michel Andina added sitar to their second album "Continuance."
In 1997, during a jazz gig in Antwerp, Stéphane met Belgian pop star Axelle Red, who was impressed by his snare sound and nicknamed him "Mr. Snare." He has played with her for over seven years since then.
He also plays in the unique trio Bzzz Pük, built around polyrhythmic structures, with Linley Marthe (bass) and Geoffroy de Masure (trombone). Stéphane’s drumming blends jazz, African traditions, and complex rhythmic improvisation. His original approach and technical mastery are widely recognized.
Stéphane developed his personal style through encounters with Central African pygmies, Senegalese percussion master Doudou Ndiaye Rose, and raga experts like Umayalpuram K. Sivamaram. He has performed with Zap Mama, Joe Zawinul, Ozark Henry, Novastar, and currently tours with Nelson Veras, Christophe Wallemme, and VSPRS, a project by Alain Platel. He appears on around 50 albums.
