Jeremy Woolhouse is rapidly making a name for himself in Melbourne as a versatile and captivating pianist. His distinctive sound embraces the traditions of Afro-American jazz and combines them with his passion for tango and Argentinean music. Elements of classical, European jazz, Brazilian and other world music enhance this characteristic, creating an individual and contemporary sound. There is always an impression that Jeremy loves what he is doing - whether he’s submerged in the intensity of a tango, or enjoying the humour of playful improvisation.

Jeremy has become an innovative improviser and creates intriguing interpretations of contemporary music. After completing a Diploma of Music Performance, he graduated with a Bachelor of Music from the improvisation department of the prestigious Victorian College of the Arts, University of Melbourne. His mentors included Dr Tony Gould, Bob Sedegrene and Geoff Hughes. In addition, he has been in workshop with local jazz legends Joe Cindamo, Paul Grabowski and David Jones, and international guests such as Joe Zwavinul, Lee Konitz, and Philip Glass. Alongside the study of improvisation, Jeremy has continually presented compositions reflecting his imaginative and individual approach to music.

“I have been greatly inspired by our local array of pianists and musicians. Tony Gould is probably foremost.... I also aim to take on board influence from the great pedigree of jazz pianists:: Keith Jarret, Herbie Hancock, John Taylor, Kenny Barron, Dave Brubeck. If I had a favourite, it would be Bill Evans. On the jazz side, he has most inspired me compositionally. I’d also credit Jobim, Greig and Debussy.... I feel a powerful affinity for the music of Astor Piazzolla. Hearing and studying him changed my approach to composition, and that’s where I was infected with an appetite for tango.”

Jeremy has performed at Melbourne’s major concert and function venues, from the Melbourne Concert Hall to the Boite World Music Cafe - Melbourne Town Hall to Manchester Lane jazz club. Whilst most of his experience is solo or with small jazz settings, he has worked with all types of ensembles including his tango band, symphony orchestras, jazz quintets, big bands, latin groups and world music projects. Jeremy is accompanist to dancers, singers and instrumentalists in a variety of musical styles.

In early 2002, he recorded a CD of solo, duet and trio works, entitled “Thumbnails”. This includes recordings of his tango ensemble “Estuary Three” and jazz group “Trio Kestrel”. Jeremy currently performs with various ensembles at functions, venues and concerts. He shares his enthusiasm for music with students through his teaching practice; working with children and adult beginners through to professional jazz performers (see the teaching page for details).

Jeremy is a practicing teacher of the Alexander Technique, a method which compliments his piano teaching practice (more information on Alexander Technique). He completed a 4 year Ad Dip of Alexander Technique Teacher training to become fully registered with the Australian Society of Techers of the Alexander Technique and is on staff at the School for FM Alexander Studies in Melbourne.

Throughout music circles, Jeremy is known as reliable, professional, co-operative and amicable. His students know him as resourceful, approachable, understanding, yet insistent. Everyone who knows him can vouch for a sense of fun and passion in all he does.