Xaver Hellmeier
Xaver Hellmeier has established himself as one of the leading jazz drummers in Europe. His playing combines stylistic influences from the masters of the craft, such as Billy Higgins, Louis Hayes, Art Blakey, Art Taylor, Kenny Clarke, Mickey Roker, Philly Joe Jones and Max Roach.
Known for his sense of swing, sophisticated accompaniment and his notably melodic and imaginative soloing, he has been described by the press as “a revelation“ (Markus Reitinger. Merkur) and “extraordinary interesting“ (Barbara Heigl, Südostnews).
on tour
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Coming up
International Tours with Brad Leali, David Hazeltine, Lucy Wjinands, Fabien Mary, Jesse Davis
coming up
A Highlight of 2026:
Claus Raible – Brad Leali Quintett
CD-Release Tour for Enja Records
- December 2026
- Germany
Jazzworkshop
I’ll be teaching at the prestigous Jazzsummercamp Burghausen again!
- 10.-16.08.2026
- Burghausen
FAbien Mary Quartett
Another Tour through Germany & Austria with the legendary french trumpeter
- 14.-19.09.2026
- Germany
Latest Record
David Sauzay featuring David Hazeltine – Family Spirit
Short Stack
05:15
Samba Del Camino
06:14
The Spirit Of Alice
07:05
Bossa For All
06:08
Following the Fox
07:13
Pearls
05:39
Ease It
04:41
Articles
One of my favorite quotes is by the great drummer Art Blakey: “Jazz washes away the dust of every day life.” I was lucky to experience this myself many times watching iconic musicians such as Harold Mabern, Louis Hayes, Jimmy Cobb, George Coleman & Lou Donaldson while spending time in New York .
Each time I perform, I try to share this feeling of joy, love and excitement for the music, just as the masters have done for me.
– Xaver Hellmeier