Oct 23, 2024 10:10 AM
In Memoriam: Claire Daly, 1958–2024
Claire Daly often signed her correspondences with “Love and Low Notes.”
The baritone saxophonist, who died Oct.…
Los Angeles-based Alex Hahn performs at the first Michael Brecker International Saxophone Competition, which was held at the Red Sea Jazz Festival in Eliat, Israel.
(Photo: Odasan Macovich)Los Angeles-based Alex Hahn took top honors on Monday at the inaugural edition of the Michael Brecker International Saxophone Competition, which was held at the Red Sea Jazz Festival in Eliat, Israel.
Named for the innovative saxophonist and DownBeat Hall of Famer who died in 2007, the competition aims to manifest Brecker’s “spirit and influence” in subsequent generations of jazz players while bolstering young, new talent, according to a press release.
Judges in the final round were Ron Carter, Kenny Garrett, Donny McCaslin and Eli Degibri, artistic director of the Red Sea festival.
“Michael was always supportive of young saxophonists and would have been delighted and humbled,” Susan Brecker, co-founder of the competition and Michael’s widow, said about the event.
Hahn was awarded $12,500; for second place, Miami-based Alex Weitz was awarded $7,500; and for third place, Boston-based Artem Badenko was awarded $2,500.
Semi-finalists also included Niall Cade, Nathan Bellott, Sheridan Hitchcock, Sean Payne and Daniel Varga.
For additional information about the event, visit the Michael Brecker International Saxophone Competition homepage. DB
Claire Daly, right, performs with tenor saxophonist George Garzone at Dizzy’s in 2023.
Oct 23, 2024 10:10 AM
Claire Daly often signed her correspondences with “Love and Low Notes.”
The baritone saxophonist, who died Oct.…
Benny Golson soaks in the music during a late-career performance at Chicago’s Jazz Showcase.
Sep 24, 2024 12:02 PM
Benny Golson, one of the greatest composers and saxophonists of the bebop era, passed away Saturday, Sept. 21, at his…
Quincy Jones’ gifts transcended jazz, but jazz was his first love.
Nov 5, 2024 1:00 AM
Quincy Delight Jones Jr., musician, bandleader, composer and producer, died in his home in Bel Air, California, on…
McNeil’s virtuosity as a player was unimpeachable and his imagination as an improviser was vast.
Oct 2, 2024 11:35 AM
John McNeil, a trumpeter, composer and educator who built an accomplished and progressive career in jazz despite a…
“I treat every day like it’s Thanksgiving,” said Roy Haynes in describing what made him successful.
Nov 19, 2024 12:57 PM
Powerhouse jazz drummer and bandleader Roy Haynes died Tuesday in Nassau County, New York. He was 99. One of the few…
