Lee Heerspink is a Michigan-based jazz guitarist and composer.
A native of Holland, MI and lifelong student of the guitar, Heerspink holds music degrees from Hope College, the University of South Florida, and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
During his musically formative years, Heerspink trained as a classical pianist and upright bass player before transitioning to the guitar in high school. Originally a pop/rock/folk guitarist, Heerspink became passionate about jazz when he was exposed to the music of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers while studying at Hope College.
In 2010, Heerspink auditioned and accepted a job playing music for the US Air Force Band in Omaha, NE. During his four years with the USAF, Heerspink toured the country and abroad performing a wide range of contemporary genres from jazz, funk, rock, country and R & B. From 2015-2020, Heerspink completed his Doctorate in Jazz Studies from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he focused primarily on transcribing and analyzing the modern improvisatory styles of Pat Metheny and John Scofield.
As an improviser, Heerspink isn’t a “flashy” guitarist, but rather a mindful musician who enjoys creating narrative melodies. He gives a nod to many of the great jazz guitarists that came before him while adding authenticity fueled by his diverse background as a working musician for almost 20 years.
The breadth and depth of Heerspink’s musical experiences have also helped shape him into a compelling composer. His debut album Monsters’ Impromptu features compositions that mix singable melodies with grooving rhythms and gritty sonic textures. Monsters’ Impromptu features a powerhouse roster of well established Michigan-based talent including Jim Alfredson (organ), Randy Marsh (drums), Dutcher Snedeker (synth/keys), and Caleb Elzinga (sax).
Outside of his art music, Heerspink performs weekly with various corporate/event bands throughout Michigan. He also serves the West Michigan community as a private guitar instructor, and most importantly, always finds time to play “monster” with his two young sons, Alex and Austin.