Klaus Ignatzek

Klaus Ignatzek, born November 4, 1954, in Wilhelmshaven, Germany, is one of the top pianists lighting up the European jazz scene. As a killer pianist, composer, bandleader, and educator, he's dropped over 60 albums featuring more than 270 of his own tunes, earning props from critics and fans alike for his nuanced playing, brilliant technique, and fresh hard bop vibes.

He's gigged everywhere from Amsterdam to Zagreb, recorded for labels like Candid, Nagel-Heyer, and Timeless, and even snagged the Niedersächsische Künstlerstipendium in 1991. Whether solo, in trios, or leading his quintet, Klaus keeps the energy high and the inspiration flowing—check out recent gems like *Understatement* and *Solo Standards* for that signature spark.