It’s an emotional time of transition for XiJaro & Pitch as Pitch’s battle with Norrie Disease takes another turn, and he announces plans to cease performing live next year.
Anthony “Pitch” Reyers has been blind and losing his hearing from a currently incurable disease, but he has never lost hope and is endlessly inspiring others. And with his partner Xander van Dommelen (XiJaro), they have released numerous records and performed to thousands of fans live over the last decade. And while Reyers has always said that live performances are the lifeblood of his musical passion, he’s facing the realities of his condition and making changes on his own terms.
Reyers has been fighting against Norrie Disease since birth, but he has never let it dictate his life. A trance fan since the age of nine, and an FM radio host since 13, Reyers has inspired a generation of trance fans. He has also helped move the needle forward in attempts to find a cure for Norrie Disease. XiJaro and Pitch have single-handedly brought attention to this rare condition, raised money for research through fundraisers, and hosted virtual festivals to increase awareness.
In a video posted on their Instagram, Reyers informed fans of his latest decision to take control of his own fate. “My plan right now is to play my final show at the end of 2027,” he said. “I wanted you to hear that from me directly, not from anyone else. This isn’t a surprise to those close to me. My hearing has been fading for a while now. Honestly, I’d much rather choose the moment myself than wait for my health to make that call for me.” XiJaro & Pitch will continue to tour with Xander on the stage.
This isn’t an ending; it’s the beginning of a new chapter.
It’s hard to believe that Reyers could fully feel and experience a live audience, even when he couldn’t see them and could hardly hear them. Despite these challenges, he formed a bond with fans at shows that could not be broken; a bond that fueled his desire always to push forward. And even stepping away from the stage cannot stop XiJaro & Pitch from pushing forward.
This isn’t goodbye to XiJaro & Pitch; it’s just me stepping back from the stages. Xander and I aren’t going anywhere. We’ll keep writing and creating together. I’ve got about a year and a half left of dreaming with you all, and I can’t wait to spend it on the dance floor, chasing those dreams one more time.
Anthony “Pitch” Reyers
XiJaro & Pitch performed live recently at Luminosity Beach Festival, a mainstay of their annual calendar. Reyers described the event as extremely emotional and one that brought great pleasure to both the performers and the fans. He also made sure to spend time with the fans as he still considers them such a significant part of his journey. Even after Pitch steps away from the stage, it’s hard to see a future where he doesn’t continue to interact with fans, whether in person or virtually.
While this announcement is bittersweet, fans still have the better part of a year and a half to see the duo on stage. And the forthcoming debut studio album is their most ambitious to date. The album is meant to capture “the full emotional scope of their sound” and is planned for release in time for Reyers’ departure from the stage.
We continue to wish XiJaro & Pitch all the best and look forward to the upcoming release!
