Robert Nieske

Robert Nieske is a jazz double bassist, composer, and educator currently teaching at Brandeis University where he directs the Jazz Ensemble and Improvisation Collective. He also maintains a faculty affiliation with New England Conservatory in their Jazz Studies department.

His research interests focus on jazz performance practices, composition, and improvisation techniques. Nieske has developed educational materials for bass players, including his Bass Book available on his personal website, and emphasizes both traditional and free improvisation approaches in his teaching.

Nieske's professional career includes significant performance experience with jazz legends such as Jimmy Giuffre (with whom he performed for twelve years), Charlie Byrd, Stephane Grappelli, Dakota Staton, and members of The Either/Orchestra and George Russell's Living Time Orchestra. His compositional work includes the critically acclaimed album 'Simplicity' featuring a suite for jazz trio and string quartet.

Nieske leads his own ensembles including the 'Little Big Band' (formed as an expansion of his earlier 'Wolf Soup' quintet) and the Bob Nieske Four. He regularly performs at venues including Brandeis University, NEC, and various Boston-area locations.