Danish pianist Nikolaj Hess was chosen as the best European jazz-piano player....

Danish pianist Nikolaj Hess (b1967, DK) was chosen as the best European jazz-piano player under 25 for a competition in Rome (1990), won first prize in the ‘Berlingske Tidendes competition for Rhythmic music’ (1987) and was a finalist in the European Young Artist competition in Leverkusen in 1988.

Having graduated from the Rhythmic Conservatory at 22, he was the first to get a top grade for his concert performance in piano. He has numerous recordings as a leader, co-leader and sideman, has composed and arranged for solo piano, small groups, large string ensemble, big band choirs and saxophone quartet. He has also written music for Danish films and Radio.He has been awarded many grants from the Danish government as well as from private foundations, which have twice included the Bikuben Foundation Artist-in-residence in New York.

While living in Africa, Nikolaj studied African rhythms and Composition principles in Ghana, Nigeria, Benin and South Africa. He divides his time between New York City and Copenhagen. In Denmark he is affiliated with the Rhythmic Conservatory of Copenhagen where he holds a position as an associate professor. Nikolaj Hess is sponsored by Bach Pianos Scandinavia.

a little film about the recording of Spacelab the champ. Nikolaj Hess, Anders Christensen, and Mikkel Hess in the recording studio