Jesse van Ruller

Hailing from the Netherlands, Jesse van Ruller is a contemporary jazz guitarist. He is known for his unique sound, virtuoso technique and beautiful compositions. In 1995 he won the prestigious Thelonious Monk Award in Washington . The jury, consisting of Pat Metheny, John Scofield, Jim Hall, Pat Martino and Mark Whitfield, was of the opinion that Jesse is one of the most promising talents of his time. In the same year he graduated summa cum laude from the Hilversum Conservatory, where he studied with Wim Overgaauw. Since then he has performed with numerous renowned musicians and ensembles such as Pat Metheny, George Duke, Joe Lovano, Peter Erskine, Mike Stern, Tom Harrell, Philip Catherine, Toots Thielemans, the Roy Hargrove Quintet, Christian McBride, Seamus Blake, Metropole Orchestra, Asko Ensemble, WDR Big Band, Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and the Berliner Philharmoniker. He was nominated for the Dutch Bird and Edison Awards several times and to date has released nine albums as a leader.