Willem Abelen

Willem Abelen (1996) is a versatile, lyrically driven saxophonist, composer and bandleader based in Utrecht, The Netherlands. His work is defined by a strong melodic voice and a broad musical scope, moving fluidly between acoustic and electronic contexts.

He leads the electro-acoustic band FLUX and is currently working on a new album to be released in spring 2026. Other current projects include Superordinate, an album with guitarist Tom Veltien, a duo with harpist Sara Brink-Nielsen, the Afro-Cuban dance machine Longo Longo, and horn section work for artists such as Gus Walker, Supermoon, Benjamin Fro and Sascha Zilvester.

As a sideman, Willem has recorded and performed with bands including Son Mieux, Kraak & Smaak, DeWolff and Marlon Pichel. He has shared the stage with international artists such as Seamus Blake, Michael League and Jamison Ross, as well as leading figures of the Dutch jazz scene including Benjamin Herman, Jan van Duikeren, Kika Sprangers, Jamie Peet, Reinier Baas and Tijn Wybenga.

Alongside his work as a musician, Willem is also a copywriter and works parttime at the iconic BIMHUIS on the publicity and communications team. He previously worked for Grachtenfestival and is active as a freelance copywriter.