| Biography |
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Jasper Somsen studied Jazz and Classical double bass at the conservatories of Utrecht, Hilversum and Amsterdam, the Netherlands. During his career Jasper has performed with the “crème de la crème” of the Dutch jazz scene including among others pianists Bert van den Brink (Boy Edgar Prize 2007) and Michiel Borstlap; drummer John Engels; saxophonist Ferdinand Povel; singer Rita Reys and trumpet player Eric Vloeimans. As a bandleader Jasper recorded and produced three CDs: Tettero (2001) and the New Standard Trio (2003 & 2006). Currently he heads the Jasper Somsen Group, with which he recorded the highly acclaimed album: "Dreams, Thoughts & Poetry" (The Music of Enrico Pieranunzi) - release: 2010, Challenge Records. As a sideman Jasper has played on several CDs including “Mouthpieces” (2007) & "Live, feat. Lydia van Dam" (2011) with Dutch trumpet player Bert Lochs and German guitarist Florian Zenker. The Trio Bert Lochs was invited to play at the North Sea Jazz Festival 2008, Rotterdam (NL). In 2008 Jasper worked with vocalist Nancy Marano (USA), during her stay in Holland and subsequently formed part of the band for the 2009 tour, featuring Ferdinand Povel (sax) and Rob van Bavel (piano). Jasper is the regular bassist with saxophonist Willem Hellbreker's trio and quartet: CD "Saxvibes" (2010). Since 2001 Jasper fills the bass chair at the silent movie orchestra's The Sprockets & Orchestra da Camera Oscura (concerts in a.o. Finland, Germany, Belgium & Italy). As an educator Jasper was appointed as (guest) teacher at the Conservatories of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht and Alkmaar. In addition Jasper currently runs his own Bass Academy in his home town Wageningen, The Netherlands. 2011 high-lights: 2010 high-lights: 2009 high-lights: 
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