Daniel is a singular Chicago-based bassist and composer, whose solid and supportive presence has been felt and heard among this city's richly varied and vibrant communities for the last ten years and counting. His sensibilities encompass the broader spectrum of traditional and modern modern music, which allows him to move freely between the worlds of jazz and improvised music, contemporary/classical, ragtime and experimental/rock music.
Originally from Munich, Germany, Daniel began honing his musical skills at an early age at the piano and on guitar before eventually turning to the bass, which quickly became his primary musical voice.
Daniel received his Bachelors degree in classical performance from Western Michigan University, where he was also heavily involved in the jazz program. Since moving to Chicago in 2002, he has been an active contributor to Chicago's jazz and creative music scene, performing and collaborating with many local greats and lesser-knowns, firmly establishing himself in both circles.
This has brought him to perform in many of Chicago's great venues, ranging from Ravinia, Pritzker Pavillion, and the Goodman Theater, to the Jazz Showcase, Green Mill, and countless other fine listening rooms throughout the city.
Daniel has contributed his rich sound and composing voice to number of unique groups, including (but not limited to) Leaves (Fresh Produce, Plustapes), The Marc Riordan Quartet/The Great Crush, Two Aglets Jazzing, Maurice (ears&eyes Records), Diana and the Dishes, as well as his own groups, The In Transition Quartet and Empty Step.
An avid proponent of creative music, Daniel not only provides his versatile sound to a variety of musical settings, he has also become the curator for the Ears&Eyes Music Series, hosting Chicago's most brilliant musicians several nights per week.
Daniel is also practitioner of Tai Chi, Yin Yang Yoga, as well as a Licensed Massage Therapist.
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