Researched musician profile
About Ben van Gelder
Van Gelder’s official biography identifies him as an alto saxophonist and composer whose writing often uses visual art as a framework. After a decade studying and working in New York, he returned to the Netherlands and joined the Conservatory of Amsterdam faculty.[1]
The biography distinguishes his original quintet, large-ensemble arrangements of Among Verticals, duo and orchestral work with Reinier Baas, and current projects including Manifold and Bennink/Baas/Van Gelder. His Amsterdam calendar adds performances at BIMHUIS and other local stages.[1]
Van Gelder’s artist Bandcamp documents a leader catalog running from Frame of Reference and Reprise through Among Verticals, the Baas collaborations Smash Hits and Mokum in Hi-Fi, and MANIFOLD. The site-linked YouTube channel adds authorized performance video.[2][1]
Among Verticals
The visual-art-inspired commission was arranged for multiple large ensembles after its original recording.[1]
Reinier Baas collaborations
The official biography and catalog document duo, band, and Metropole Orchestra settings under both musicians’ names.[1][2]
MANIFOLD
Van Gelder’s current project brings his alto saxophone and compositions into an eight-person vocal and instrumental ensemble.[1][2]