About Bob Wijnen | Jazz Pianist & Hammond Organist Biography

Musical Background & Education

After studying jazz piano at the Royal Conservatoire in The Hague, Bob stepped straight into an active performing life, working with experienced bandleaders and learning on the bandstand as much as in the classroom. He developed a reputation as a pianist with “great sensitivity and depth” and as an accompanist with exceptional ears, able to react instantly to soloists and singers. Travel and touring became another part of his musical education. Concerts and projects in Indonesia, the USA, Germany, the UK and Ireland exposed him to different audiences and scenes, while work with his bands Triplicate and Equinox, and many other projects, helped him refine his voice as both sideman and leader. That journey, combined with a deep study of the jazz piano tradition and the Hammond organ lineage, led directly to his debut album ‘NYC Unforeseen’ and the personal sound he continues to explore today.

Artistic Identity

As a bandleader and sideman, Bob is drawn to heartfelt melodies, swinging grooves and honest interaction on stage. He thrives in small‑group settings where the music can shift from relaxed lyricism to high‑energy improvisation in a single set. Whether on an acoustic grand or a roaring Hammond, his focus is always on sound, feel and communication.

Career Highlights

Bob has performed at clubs, theaters and festivals in the Netherlands and abroad. His debut album ‘NYC Unforeseen’ brought him to New York City to record with some of the most in‑demand players on the scene. He later travelled to New Orleans, deepening his connection with the roots of jazz. During the pandemic, he launched “Bob’s Piano Bar,” a livestream series on Facebook and YouTube, with some videos reaching over 20,000 views. His current focus includes composing and arranging alongside performance, with projects spanning piano, Hammond organ and Rhodes.

Educator

Alongside his performing career, Bob is an experienced teacher. He teaches jazz piano at the Royal Conservatoire in The Hague and at TU Delft’s X programme, guiding students through harmony, improvisation, repertoire and practice strategies. His teaching combines clear structure with a down‑to‑earth, encouraging approach.

View Bob’s projects and discography