Columbus State University’s Dr. Jordan VanHemert has been busy with the recording and release of his second jazz album as a leader along with directing Jazz Studies at Schwob School of Music. The album is titled Nomad and was released this week by Origin Records. 

Joined by a diverse cast of musicians, including legendary bassist, Rodney Whitaker, VanHemert celebrates Korean culture by incorporating jazz into melodies of Korean folk music and children’s songs transforming them into something uniquely his using the open sonic canvas of the saxophone trio. Regarding his choice of repertoire, VanHemert states that he wants to bring honor to “two traditions near and dear to my heart: the tradition of jazz and the tradition of Korean vernacular music.” 

Dr. VanHemert is a jazz saxophonist, improviser, and instructor who specializes in tenor saxophone and composing. Critics recognize VanHemert’s music 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) The album Nomad will be released today on all streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music with physical copies of the album available from Origin Records.

Check out VanHermert on YouTube youtube.com/c/JordanVanHemert, Instagram and Facebook @jvanhemusic and