Ayesha de Groot

Eastern wisdom and western philosophy combined in a wild, but sweet child. Ayesha wrote her own songs and poems from the moment she could form words. However, it was not until the late 90s she started to sing as well, surprising many with her natural born talent and strong stage performance.
Without taking notice of any conventional ways she chooses her own path, forming herself as a singer. Her voice is warm and loving. And her ways of connecting with the audience are refreshingly charming. She met up with the other Esha members out of the desire to create her own music.
In the last decade she played cover bands, soul and jazz groups and worked with several studio- producers. Before that she attended int.al, the Artez Academy of Arts, at the drama teacher division. Gave several drama and dance workshops. And also did volunteer services on the area of theatre and music with disabled persons.

Hans Kwakkernaat

Graduated cumlaude at the Artez Academy of Arts in 1990.
In his regardful  career he played with many of the celebrated Jazz masters of Holland.This didn’t stop him to get enthusiastic, when he heard that Ayesha was searching for a capable instrumentalist to help her shape her songs. He gave his co-operation as an associate composer and piano player to Esha with great ability and pleasure from day one.

Up until now, he gave his contribution to many jazz bands. And still is. As an accompaniment musician, highly valued. As a soloist he is virtuous and sublime.  He also attended many international stages, including jazz festivals in Europe, New York and Jamaica. On an annual basis, he is invited back to work his magic in Iceland.

Jan Flubacher

World citizen, grew up in the city of Cologne/Germany and studied contrabass at the academy of arts (ArtEZ) and the Messiaen Academy in Arnhem/Netherlands, where he is now living. He finished his studies in 2000 with a master degree. Not only is he a profound double bass-player, but he also has the ability too spot talent, and is persistent to share his great knowledge of music. He was the first Jazz-musician that took notice of the voice of Ayesha and has been a great inspirator and teacher to her ever since. He is an associate composer of Esha music.
His collaboration with singer Ayesha and drummer Philip Behrends started back in the late 90s, when they founded their first vocal jazz quartet together.
He has been working his whole musical career successfully as a freelance musician (both live and studio), composer, arranger and teacher int.al, at the conservatories of Arnhem and Zwolle (ArtEZ) and the Jazz Improvisation Foundation (JIN) in Nijmegen.

Philip Behrends

Starts taking a serious  interest in music at the age of 18. His roots lie in the 80s German Punk-Scene, but soon he becomes to appreciate acts like Dead Kennedys, Ramones also.  Leading him to a broader view...
Since then his open mind, energetic character and curiosity, make him out to be a musician who’s comfortable in any style.
As a Jazz-drummer he is capable to outline the groove solid and bold, as well as he can colour with shimmer and caress. Having played with Jan & Ayesha from the beginning, they all know he’s just the drummer Esha needs to be complete.
In 1993 he studies drums in vienna/A w/ Jeff Boudreaux & Bruce Becker,
soon to be followed by his first recordings for a German dance theatre production and founding his first serious bands influenced by 70s eclectic Mahavishnu Orchestra.
In 2000 he graduates his studies at the conservatory in Arnhem/NL / Joop van Erven & René Creemers. Next to Jazz&Pop his engagements include experimental projects, works for authors, filmworks and  painting.