Jack van Poll

**Jack van Poll** (1934-2022) was a celebrated Dutch jazz pianist and composer whose career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on the European jazz scene. Born in Rotterdam, he became known for his soulful, blues-infused playing and collaborative spirit, working with legends like Dexter Gordon, Chet Baker, and Ben Webster. His recent releases, including the introspective *A Song For Today* and lively *Live in Cape Town*, showcase his knack for blending tradition with spontaneity—whether through original compositions or fresh takes on standards like *Just Friends*.

Van Poll’s later years saw him splitting time between Europe and South Africa, where recordings like *Live In Capetown* (likely a typo variant) and *Injacktion* highlighted his enduring vitality on stage. A mentor to younger musicians, his work—from the playful *Cats Groove* to the contemplative *Schipdonckblues*—remains a testament to jazz as a living, evolving conversation.