Masterclass & concert Steve Nelson

Every week, our jazz students are taught by a USA teacher as part of our ‘New York comes to Groningen’ programme. On Monday afternoon at 15:30, the USA teacher of that week gives a masterclass and concert in the Jazz Club of the Prince Claus Conservatoire. By listening and participating, students will learn all about harmony, rhythm, improvisation, timing, playing in an ensemble and much more. Inspiring and educational!

Steve Nelson

Described as “the most completely realized and original performer on the vibraphone,” Steve Nelson began his career in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania choosing an instrument not often seen on the bandstand. A career spanning five decades, Steve has distinguished himself by making consequential contributions to the improvisatory development of his instrument, as well as the tradition of jazz.

​​Recognized for his inventive and fluidly harmonic approach and chromatic quality, Steve is acknoeledged as one of the pre-eminent modernist vibraphone and marimba players. He has appeared on numerous recordings and performed at concert venues and festivals worldwide. He has over a dozen original recordings as a bandleader, and has lent a distinct compositional signature to several albums of legendary bandleaders. Steve is currently a member of 2025 Grammy Nominated Kenny Barron Quartet. In 2021, Steve received a commission from the Doris Duke Foundation supported New Jazz Works program.

He is a dedicated and beloved educator with prior positions at Princeton University, William Paterson University, and Conservatorium van Amsterdam.