BEN VAN GELDER: AMONG VERTICALS

The young Dutch sax player Ben van Gelder and his New York band present new music, in part inspired by colorful painting and Cuban music.

The new album Among Verticals by Ben van Gelder Quintet originated from a composition assignment by The Jazz Gallery, one of the main venues for current music in New York. Saxophonist Ben van Gelder composed a suite which brings together various styles and forms, in particular classical composition, Abakuá culture from Cuba and improvisation. An important inspiration is an artwork by Czech painter František Kupka. One of his great examples as a composer is Jason Moran, who was one of his mentors in his New York days.

Since the age of 18 alto saxophonist Ben van Gelder has lived in New York, for a period of ten years. In the Big Apple he developed his lyrical style through studying with his role models Lee Konitz and Mark Turner. He collaborated with influential peers such as Ambrose Akinmusire and Aaron Parks. In The Netherlands he played with, among others, The More Socially Relevant Jazz Music Ensemble and in his own trio featuring Reinier Baas and Han Bennink, who is also an important inspirational figure for Van Gelder. Now he’s back in the Bimhuis with his American band.

‘With his intriguing compositions he takes bebop to a deep place. Each note, each motif, each theme feels like a sure shot, hitting the core’ (de Volkskrant).

The Bimhuis restaurant is open prior to the concert from 6.30 till 8.30PM (reservations via 020-7882158). After the concert, the Bimhuis Café is open (free entrance).

For this concert you can purchase your ticket online or if still
available, at the box office of the Bimhuis. You can select your seat of
choice when buying the tickets. Click here for more information about seating and standing places.
Discount prices are available for students, CJP and Stadspas holders. Click on the tickets button below to see the discount.