Ben van Gelder

Ben van Gelder is a Dutch jazz saxophonist and composer who's become a standout voice in Europe's vibrant contemporary jazz scene. Born in 1991 and raised in Amsterdam, he honed his craft at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam and later gained international recognition for his warm, lyrical alto saxophone style that nods to influences like Lee Konitz and Mark Turner while carving its own modern path. His releases, including the aptly titled *Mokum in Hi-Fi* (a love letter to his hometown's jazz legacy) and the introspective *Deo Volente*, showcase his talent for balancing intricate compositions with spacious improvisation.

Whether leading his own groups or collaborating with artists like trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire and guitarist Reinier Baas, van Gelder brings a conversational quality to his playing that feels both technically dazzling and deeply human. Recent works like *Aquatics* and *This Is Water* continue his exploration of fluid, narrative-driven jazz, solidifying his reputation as a musician who treats tradition as a springboard rather than a boundary.