Jordan VanHemert
"Key Leaves products are effective and intuitive woodwind products that target some of our most pervasive problems. I highly recommend them to students and colleagues alike.” - Jordan VanHemert (Saxophonist, Director of Jazz Studies at Schwob School of Music)
Dr. Jordan VanHemert is a saxophonist and composer lauded for his skill as a modern jazz improviser.
Critics recognize VanHemert’s music as being profoundly relevant; noted jazz journalist and historian Scott Yanow recently praised VanHemert’s debut release as “quite impressive,” stating that his piece “Autumn Song” “could eventually become a standard.” Additionally, critics recognize VanHemert’s album I AM NOT A VIRUS AS “full of generous emotions.” (Sonograma Barcelona) and the “beautiful harmonious, melodious base” of his compositions, calling them “Sophisticated but quite accessible for many.” (JazzMania Belgium) As both a performer and composer, VanHemert has collaborated with many notable artists, including Rodney Whitaker, John Webber, AJ Rafael, Heather Cornell, Rob Smith, Dmitri Matheny, Chris Vadala, Geri Allen, and trombonist Jeremy Wilson
Dr. VanHemert currently serves as Director of Jazz Studies at the Schwob School of Music. Prior to his appointment at Columbus State University, Dr. VanHemert served on the faculty of Hope College. He was also the Music Director and founder of the Holland Concert Jazz Orchestra, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to jazz advocacy, education, and performance.
VanHemert's music, including his new album I AM NOT A VIRUS, is informed by his passion for social justice, employing his distinctive compositional voice to address issues of race, inclusion, and identity. In recognition of his work in diversity, equity, and inclusion, he was awarded the GROW Diversity and Inclusion Award at Hope College, where he served as a faculty advisor to the college’s Asian Student Union.
He holds degrees from Central Michigan University, the University of Michigan, and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. VanHemert is a Vandoren Artist-Clinician, Key Leaves Artist, and Selmer Paris Saxophones Performing Artist. He performs exclusively on Vandoren reeds and mouthpieces and Selmer Paris saxophones and proudly uses KeyLeaves saxophone care products.