Vladimir Nikolov

Vladimir Nikolov serves as Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Jazz and Popular Music at the Faculty of Music, University of Belgrade. An internationally recognized composer, arranger, and conductor, he has built a distinguished career spanning both academic and professional music spheres.

Nikolov's research interests focus on jazz composition, orchestration techniques, and the intersection of classical and jazz traditions. His work demonstrates exceptional command of harmonic complexity, rhythmic sophistication, and orchestral color, exploring innovative approaches to big band writing while maintaining deep respect for jazz tradition. He has developed specialized expertise in film scoring and cross-genre collaborations that push the boundaries of contemporary jazz expression.

His extensive body of work reveals consistent exploration of harmonic innovation, rhythmic complexity, and orchestral color across diverse musical contexts. Nikolov demonstrates particular mastery in creating compelling textures for large ensembles while maintaining structural clarity and emotional depth. His compositions often incorporate philosophical and cross-cultural elements, reflecting a holistic approach to musical creation.

• Grammy for Best Arrangement (2020) for Jacob Collier's remake of 'All Night Long'
• Prize at the Made in New York Jazz Competition (2019)
• 4 first prizes for original works
• 5 first prizes for arrangements

Nikolov maintains an active international performance schedule while leading the jazz department at the University of Belgrade. He frequently collaborates with major orchestras including the Metropole Orchestra, Macedonian National Jazz Orchestra, and Nordkraft Big Band, working with renowned soloists such as Donny McCaslin, Maria Mendes, and Kurt Rosenwinkel. His educational work focuses on developing the next generation of jazz musicians through teaching Jazz Harmony, Jazz Arranging, and Big Band at the university level.

As artistic director of the Nikolov-Ivanović Undectet, labeled by Downbeat as 'the most creative current large jazz ensembles in Europe,' he continues to push creative boundaries while maintaining strong connections to jazz tradition.