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David Voelkl

Electric Bassist since 1987.

About Me

Dave Voelkl is the electric bassist for NPV, an experimental free jazz band from Rochester, New York. Also plays bass in free jazz band 'The Broken Throttle Trio' and classical/noise group the 'Symbiotic Chamber Ensemble'. Born on September 9, 1968, in Rochester, NY, Voelkl began playing electric bass in 1987. He started in rock and metal bands, later touring the U.S. multiple times (primarily on the West Coast) while living in Arizona. He eventually returned to upstate New York. In December 2006, he co-founded NPV with saxophonist/clarinetist Greg Newton and synthesist/electronics player Larry Patti. Rick Bozza joined the band on drums in 2025. The band has been active for nearly two decades, releasing numerous live recordings and splits on Bandcamp (npvmusic). They specialize in spontaneous compositions, soundscapes, prepared bass with effects/electronics, and a raw, exploratory style that blends free jazz elements with noise and improvisation—often self-described as “Making Jazz Obsolete Since 2006.” Voelkl uses prepared electric bass and effects to create textural, unconventional sounds that fit the band's chaotic yet atmospheric approach. He continues performing locally in Rochester's vibrant underground and jazz-adjacent scenes. NPV remains a staple in Western NY's experimental music community, with frequent live shows in Buffalo, Rochester, Ithaca and Syracuse.