Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
DownBeat’s 73rd Annual Critics Poll: One for the Record Books
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
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
James Brandon Lewis earned honors for Artist of the Year and Tenor Saxophonist of the Year. Three of his recordings placed in the Albums of the Year category.
Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
Galper was often regarded as an underrated master of his craft.
Jul 22, 2025 10:58 AM
Hal Galper, a pianist, composer and arranger who enjoyed a substantial performing career but made perhaps a deeper…
Chuck Mangione on the cover of the May 8, 1975, edition of DownBeat.
Jul 29, 2025 1:00 PM
Chuck Mangione, one of the most popular trumpeters in jazz history, passed away on July 24 at home in Rochester, New…
Jul 17, 2025 11:35 AM
The DownBeat Critics Poll provides a wonderful snapshot of the jazz scene today, with much to explore and many great…
Jordan was a dyed-in-the-wool bebopper whose formative musical experiences were with Charlie Parker.
Aug 12, 2025 10:24 AM
Sheila Jordan, a vocalist who was celebrated for her scatting and lyric-improvising abilities, died Aug. 11 at her home…
