Dutch pianist Gideon van Gelder is based in New York where he has his own quartet. Critics from all over the world have praised the group for their energetic, smooth and lyrical jazz, which is enhanced by wordless, mystical vocals. Lighthouse, the quartet’s latest album, showcases the group’s multifaceted and exceptional sound. The album was released last fall and went straight to the top of the iTunes Jazz Chart. Van Gelder (who is now also a qualified MD and psychiatrist) is coming to Rotterdam this summer bursting with self-confidence following the success of what is only their second album. He and other members of his family have close ties to the festival. Van Gelder himself has performed at North Sea Jazz before, with artists like José James and Neco Novela. His father Sem, a jazz connoisseur, has also appeared there as a DJ, while saxophonist brother Ben is appearing with Reinier Baas’s band.
