Idan Santhaus
Saxophonist, flautist, composer, and arranger Idan Santhaus has emerged as an exciting new voice in the modern jazz big band landscape. His debut Posi-Tone release, There You Are (2013), features all original compositions and showcases the forward-thinking artistry of his 16-piece Jazz Orchestra. Blending a rich harmonic palette with bold rhythmic textures, Santhaus’ music extends the big band tradition into fresh, genre-bending territory.
Born in Israel, Santhaus began his musical training as a classical flautist, touring throughout Israel and Europe with the Haifa Youth Orchestra. His passion for jazz led him to study with Ilan Salem and Stu HaCohen, and later at the Rimon School of Music.
In 2001, Santhaus relocated to New York City, earning his degree from SUNY Purchase College where he studied with Ralph Lalama, Jon Faddis, Charles Blenzig, Pete Malinverni, and Todd Coolman. He further refined his skills in the BMI Jazz Composers’ Workshop under the guidance of Jim McNeely, Michael Abene, and Mike Holober. A finalist in the 2008 Charlie Parker Composition Competition, Santhaus also formed The Reedless Big Band, performing his original works at venues throughout New York.
Influenced by ensembles like the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra and Jason Lindner’s Big Band, Santhaus continues to expand his artistic voice, creating innovative and engaging works that highlight both his individuality and deep respect for the big band tradition.
Saxophonist, flautist, composer, and arranger Idan Santhaus has emerged as an exciting new voice in the modern jazz big band landscape. His debut Posi-Tone release, There You Are (2013), features all original compositions and showcases the forward-thinking artistry of his 16-piece Jazz Orchestra. Blending a rich harmonic palette with bold rhythmic textures, Santhaus’ music extends the big band tradition into fresh, genre-bending territory.
Born in Israel, Santhaus began his musical training as a classical flautist, touring throughout Israel and Europe with the Haifa Youth Orchestra. His passion for jazz led him to study with Ilan Salem and Stu HaCohen, and later at the Rimon School of Music.
In 2001, Santhaus relocated to New York City, earning his degree from SUNY Purchase College where he studied with Ralph Lalama, Jon Faddis, Charles Blenzig, Pete Malinverni, and Todd Coolman. He further refined his skills in the BMI Jazz Composers’ Workshop under the guidance of Jim McNeely, Michael Abene, and Mike Holober. A finalist in the 2008 Charlie Parker Composition Competition, Santhaus also formed The Reedless Big Band, performing his original works at venues throughout New York.
Influenced by ensembles like the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra and Jason Lindner’s Big Band, Santhaus continues to expand his artistic voice, creating innovative and engaging works that highlight both his individuality and deep respect for the big band tradition.