“Winkelman’s trio of equals, perpetually seeking a state of equilibrium, approach joyful swing, hard-hitting rock and chamber-like inventions as one big, interconnected thing of beauty. ” - Ed Enright

— Downbeat

Bio

Ben Winkelman is a jazz pianist and composer living in New York City, whose music has been described by Downbeat as “one big, interconnected thing of beauty”. His writing explores diverse musical interests filtered through a jazz perspective: Afro-Cuban, gospel and classical music, with a focus on Latin rhythms in odd meters. 

Ben has released five trio albums to wide acclaim: his second, The Spanish Tinge, won the AIR Award for Best Independent Jazz Release; his first was nominated for an Australian Jazz Bell Award; and his third and fourth albums were nominated for AIR Awards. His work has been supported by grants from the Australia Council and other arts organizations, and he was a finalist in the Australian National Jazz Awards. He has toured in the US, Canada, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

Longer bio here.

Press quotes

"Winkelman’s trio of equals, perpetually seeking a state of equilibrium, approach joyful swing, hard-hitting rock and chamber-like inventions as one big, interconnected thing of beauty." - Ed Enright, Downbeat (USA), Editor's Pick 

4 stars. "Together, these three tackle thorny thoughts, essay beauty with singular style, and swing hard right down the line at various points in the program. Bouncing between different moods and themes in short order, this trio never misses a beat." - Dan Bilawsky, All About Jazz (USA)

4 stars. "Pianist Ben Winkelman's fifth album is so good that, ironically, its overwhelming brilliance may limit its appeal. It is so innovative, and played with such power, that the listener is left open-mouthed." - Eric Myers, The Australian (Australia)

 

Press Photos

Video

Latest Album