Guido Nijs is a Dutch saxophonist whose work connects jazz, pop, reggae and improvised music. Whether performing in a horn section or leading his own ensemble, he brings experience across soprano, alto, tenor and baritone saxophones.
A versatile musical background
Guido began playing alto saxophone at twelve. He studied at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague with Jan Menu and John Ruocco, and later studied with Bob Mintzer in New York. After graduating in 1999, he joined BEEF! and helped form Special Request Horns.
From DI-RECT to his own compositions
His performance credits include DI-RECT, Caro Emerald, Racoon and Gare du Nord. In jazz, his work includes Jazzinvaders, Paradox Jazz Orchestra and projects with Eric van der Westen. His 2021 debut under his own name, Train of Thought, features original compositions with Koen Smits, Jeroen van Vliet, Eric van der Westen and Pascal Vermeer.
His Cannonball B5-L baritone
Cannonball’s official artist profile highlights Guido’s B5-L Big Bell Stone Series baritone. He praises its intonation and powerful, clear sound. The performance below shows DI-RECT at Evers & co. on Radio 538 in October 2026.
Watch and listen
DI-RECT — Back To The Beginning, live at Evers & co., Radio 538 (October 2026).