Jacques van Oortmerssen

Jacques van Oortmerssen began his musical studies at the Rotterdam Conservatory, studying the organ with André Verwoerd and the piano with Elly Salomé. He earned the distinction ‘cum laude’ for his final examination and was given a special prize for improvisation. Between 1974 and 1976 he studied with Marie-Claire Alain in Paris. He was awarded the Prix d’Excellence in 1976. In 1977 he received his degree as a piano soloist, and in the same year he was awarded first prize at the Dutch National Improvisation Competition.