Hailing from the Netherlands, Jesse van Ruller is a contemporary jazz guitarist. He is known for his unique sound, virtuoso technique and beautiful compositions. In 1995 he won the prestigious Thelonious Monk Award in Washington . The jury, consisting of Pat Metheny, John Scofield, Jim Hall, Pat Martino and Mark Whitfield, was of the opinion that Jesse is one of the most promising talents of his time. In the same year he graduated summa cum laude from the Hilversum Conservatory, where he studied with Wim Overgaauw.