Best 10 Female Saxophonists Ever

Learn About the 10 Best Women Saxophonists in History! Candy Dulfer, Tia Fuller, Jane Ira Bloom, Grace Kelly, Anat Cohen...

1. Candy Dulfer

Candy Dulfer is a highly talented and versatile Dutch saxophonist who has captivated audiences worldwide with her energetic and soulful performances. Born on September 19, 1969, in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Candy's musical journey began at a young age. Growing up in a musically inclined family, with her father Hans Dulfer being a renowned saxophonist, Candy was exposed to the world of music from an early age. At just six years old, she started playing the saxophone, and by eleven, she made her stage debut alongside her father.

Candy rose to international fame with her hit single "Lily Was Here" in 1989. The instrumental track, featuring renowned English musician Dave Stewart, became a major success and reached high chart positions in several countries. This breakthrough propelled her into the limelight and marked the start of her successful career.

Known for her vibrant stage presence and ability to infuse various genres into her music, Candy Dulfer has become a prominent figure in the smooth jazz and funk genres. She has released numerous albums throughout her career, showcasing her exceptional talent and versatility as a saxophonist. Her music is characterized by infectious grooves, soulful melodies, and powerful improvisations that create an electrifying atmosphere.

Beyond her solo work, Candy Dulfer has collaborated with numerous renowned artists, including Prince, Van Morrison, and Dave Stewart. Her contributions to their projects have further cemented her reputation as a highly sought-after saxophonist. With her charismatic personality and remarkable skill, Candy continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.

Curiosities About Candy:

• Funky Fashion: Candy Dulfer has a distinctive sense of style that often reflects her vibrant personality. She is known for wearing colorful and unique outfits during her performances, adding a touch of visual flair to her already captivating shows.
• Dance Moves: Candy Dulfer's energetic performances often involve some dancing on stage. While primarily known for her saxophone skills, she occasionally showcases her dance moves during certain songs, inspiring both the audience and fellow musicians to join in.

2. Tia Fuller

Tia Fuller is an acclaimed American jazz saxophonist, composer, and bandleader known for her virtuosity and innovative approach to music. Born on March 27, 1976, in Aurora, Colorado, Tia's passion for music was evident from a young age. She began playing the flute at four years old and later picked up the saxophone, which became her primary instrument.

Fuller's musical education was extensive, as she pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Spelman College and a Master's degree in Jazz Pedagogy from the University of Colorado Boulder. These academic achievements laid a solid foundation for her career and shaped her multifaceted musical style.

Tia Fuller's talent as a saxophonist quickly gained recognition, but it was her role as a member of Beyoncé's all-female touring band that brought her widespread attention. Serving as Beyoncé's lead alto saxophonist and musical director, Tia showcased her exceptional skill and stage presence to audiences around the world.

In addition to her work with Beyoncé, Tia Fuller has released several highly regarded albums as a bandleader, showcasing her abilities as a composer and performer. Her music combines elements of traditional jazz with contemporary influences, creating a dynamic and unique sound.

Curiosities About Tia:

• Secret Admirer: During her time as a member of Beyoncé's band, Tia Fuller once received a surprise gift from an anonymous admirer, leaving her both delighted and curious about the sender's identity.
• Saxophone Inspiration: Tia Fuller was inspired to play the saxophone after hearing a recording of Charlie Parker's "Now's the Time" when she was just 9 years old.
• Grammy Nominations: Tia Fuller has received multiple Grammy nominations for her solo work, reflecting the critical acclaim and respect she has garnered in the jazz community.

3. Jane Ira Bloom

Jane Ira Bloom is an accomplished American jazz saxophonist, composer, and educator known for her distinctive voice and innovative approach to music. Born on January 12, 1955, in Boston, Massachusetts, Bloom initially studied classical piano and flute before discovering her love for the saxophone.

Throughout her career, Jane Ira Bloom has pushed the boundaries of jazz and explored the expressive capabilities of the soprano saxophone. She is widely recognized for her innovative use of live electronics, incorporating real-time electronic effects into her performances.

Curiosities About Jane:

• Quirky Saxophone Accessories: Jane Ira Bloom has been known to incorporate unique and unconventional accessories into her performances, sometimes wearing distinctive hats or headpieces while playing.
• NASA Collaboration: Bloom's passion for space exploration led her to collaborate with NASA's Hubble Space Telescope team, resulting in her album "The Red Quartets".
• Film Score Composer: Bloom has ventured into film score composition, creating music for independent films and documentaries.

4. Anat Cohen

Anat Cohen is an acclaimed Israeli-born jazz clarinetist and saxophonist who has made a significant impact on the global jazz scene. Born on January 31, 1975, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Cohen grew up in a musical household and began playing the clarinet at the age of 12.

Cohen's versatile musicianship and technical prowess have garnered her widespread recognition. She is highly regarded for her command of both the clarinet and various saxophones, including the tenor, alto, and soprano. Her music often incorporates elements of Brazilian music, Middle Eastern influences, and a deep appreciation for swing and bebop traditions.

5. Grace Kelly

Grace Kelly is an American saxophonist, singer, and composer who has made a significant impact on the contemporary jazz scene. Born on May 15, 1992, in Wellesley, Massachusetts, Kelly exhibited a passion for music from a young age. She started playing the saxophone at the age of 10 and quickly showed remarkable talent.

Throughout her career, Grace Kelly has established herself as a versatile and innovative musician. She seamlessly blends elements of jazz, pop, funk, and soul into her music, creating a fresh and vibrant sound.

Curiosities About Grace:

• Sharing a Name with Hollywood Royalty: One humorous coincidence is that Grace Kelly shares her name with the iconic Hollywood actress-turned-Princess of Monaco.
• Performing for President Barack Obama: Grace Kelly had the honor of performing at the White House for President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama in 2016 for the International Jazz Day celebration.
• Youngest Winner of the John Lennon Songwriting Contest: At the age of 16, Grace Kelly won the John Lennon Songwriting Contest with her original composition "Every Road I Walked."

6. Melissa Aldana

Melissa Aldana is a Chilean-born tenor saxophonist who has established herself as one of the prominent figures in contemporary jazz. Born on December 3, 1988, in Santiago, Chile, Aldana grew up in a musical family and was exposed to jazz from a young age.

In 2013, Melissa Aldana achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first female instrumentalist and the first South American musician to win the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition.

7. Peggy Gilbert

Peggy Gilbert was an American jazz saxophonist, bandleader, and composer who made significant contributions to the jazz scene during the early 20th century. Born on January 17, 1905, in Sioux City, Iowa, Gilbert developed a passion for music from a young age.

In the 1920s, Gilbert formed her own all-female jazz band called "Peggy Gilbert and Her All-Girl Band." This was a groundbreaking achievement in an era when female musicians faced significant barriers in the male-dominated jazz industry.

Curiosities About Peggy:

• The Musical Dog: Peggy Gilbert had a pet dog that she would often bring to rehearsals and performances. The dog would occasionally join in the musical proceedings by howling or barking along with the music!
• All-Girl Band Pioneer: Peggy Gilbert was a trailblazer for women in jazz, defying expectations and creating opportunities for female musicians to showcase their talents during the 1920s.

8. Vi Redd

Vi Redd, born on December 20, 1928, in Los Angeles, California, is an American jazz saxophonist and vocalist who emerged as a powerful force in the jazz scene during the 1960s. She gained recognition for her rich, soulful tone and her energetic and dynamic performances.

Curiosities About Vi:

• Connection to Charlie Parker: Vi Redd had a personal connection to the legendary saxophonist Charlie Parker. Her father, Alton Redd, was a drummer who played with Parker during his early years.

9. Camille Thurman

While Camille Thurman is primarily known for her skills as a saxophonist and vocalist, she is also a multi-instrumentalist. She plays the flute, clarinet, and piano, showcasing her versatility and broad musical knowledge. Her ability to connect on stage adds an extra layer of chemistry and excitement to her performances.

This list is just a selection and there are many other great jazz saxophonists. This top ten is made as a contribution to spreading the word of the jazz saxophone world and the culture of this amazing instrument.