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, solidifying her position as one of the most accomplished and influential saxophonists of her generation.

Curiosities about Candy:

1. 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. Her fashion choices have become part of her signature image and contribute to the lively atmosphere she creates on stage.
2. 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. Her infectious enthusiasm and rhythmic grooves can inspire both the audience and fellow musicians to join in the dance, creating a fun and interactive atmosphere.

 

Candy through his songs:

Now it´s time to know more about his music. There´s a short Spotify list with complete songs played by Candy Dulfer.

 

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, and she began performing with renowned artists such as Wycliffe Gordon, Jon Faddis, and Nancy Wilson. However, 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. Fuller’s compositions often explore complex harmonies, intricate rhythms, and melodic improvisations, displaying her innovative approach to jazz.

Tia Fuller’s contributions to the jazz world have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous accolades, including Grammy nominations for her albums “Angelic Warrior” and “Diamond Cut.” Fuller’s mastery of the saxophone, combined with her adventurous spirit and dedication to pushing musical boundaries, has solidified her position as one of the leading saxophonists of her generation. Her impact extends beyond her own performances, as she continues to inspire aspiring musicians and contribute to the jazz community through her educational initiatives and workshops.

Curiosities about Tia:

1. Secret Admirer: During her time as a member of Beyoncé’s band, Tia Fuller once received a surprise gift from an anonymous admirer. A mysterious fan sent her a bouquet of flowers backstage, leaving her both delighted and curious about the sender’s identity. It added a touch of intrigue and excitement to her tour experience.
2. 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. The sound of Parker’s saxophone captivated her and sparked her love for the instrument, setting her on a path towards becoming a professional saxophonist.
3. Grammy Nominations: Tia Fuller has received multiple Grammy nominations for her solo work. Her album “Angelic Warrior” was nominated for Best Jazz Instrumental Album in 2013, and her album “Diamond Cut” received a nomination for Best Jazz Instrumental Album in 2018. These nominations reflect the critical acclaim and respect she has garnered in the jazz community.

 

Tia through his songs:

Now it´s time to know more about his music. There´s a short Spotify list with complete songs played by Tia Fuller.

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 began her musical journey at a young age. She initially studied classical piano and flute before discovering her love for the saxophone.

Bloom’s musical education took her to Yale University, where she studied composition and earned a Bachelor of Music degree. She later pursued a Master of Music degree in Jazz Studies from the New England Conservatory of Music. During her time at the conservatory, Bloom had the opportunity to study with iconic saxophonist and composer Joe Henderson, which greatly influenced her artistic development.

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. Bloom’s unique approach has earned her critical acclaim and established her as one of the leading voices on the soprano saxophone.

As a composer, Bloom has created a diverse body of work, releasing numerous albums that showcase her original compositions and inventive improvisations. Her music often blends elements of traditional jazz with contemporary influences, creating a distinct and engaging sound. Bloom’s compositions reflect her artistic vision and ability to convey emotion through her playing.

In addition to her work as a performer and composer, Jane Ira Bloom is a passionate educator. She has served as a professor at the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York City, where she shares her knowledge and experiences with aspiring musicians. Bloom’s dedication to education and mentorship underscores her commitment to nurturing the next generation of jazz artists.

Jane Ira Bloom’s contributions to the jazz world, both as a musician and an educator, have earned her numerous accolades. She has been recognized with multiple awards, including the Guggenheim Fellowship in music composition. With her unique sound, innovative techniques, and dedication to pushing the boundaries of jazz, Bloom continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.

Curiosities about Jane:

1. Quirky Saxophone Accessories: Jane Ira Bloom has been known to incorporate unique and unconventional accessories into her performances. She sometimes wears distinctive hats or headpieces while playing the saxophone, adding a touch of visual flair to her stage presence. These playful accessories reflect her creative spirit and sense of individuality.
2. NASA Collaboration: Bloom’s passion for space exploration and astronomy led her to collaborate with NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope team. Inspired by the breathtaking images captured by the telescope, she composed a series of music pieces that pay homage to the vastness and beauty of the universe. This collaboration resulted in her album “The Red Quartets,” which received critical acclaim and demonstrated her ability to weave scientific concepts into her music.
3. Film Score Composer: Bloom has not only focused on jazz performances but has also ventured into film score composition. She has composed music for independent films and documentaries, showcasing her ability to capture and enhance the emotional impact of visual storytelling through her compositions.

 

Jane through his songs:

Now it´s time to know more about his music. There´s a short Spotify list with complete songs played by Jane Ira Bloom.

 

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. Her early exposure to various musical genres, including Brazilian music, Jewish music, and classical music, greatly influenced her diverse and vibrant approach to jazz.

Cohen’s passion and talent for music led her to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Jazz Clarinet from the Berklee College of Music in Boston, where she further honed her skills and immersed herself in the jazz community. She later earned a Master’s degree in Jazz Performance from the prestigious Manhattan School of Music in New York City.

Anat 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. Cohen’s playing is characterized by her impeccable technique, rich tone, and ability to infuse her music with soulful expression and captivating improvisations.

Throughout her career, Cohen has released numerous critically acclaimed albums as a bandleader, showcasing her original compositions and interpretations of jazz standards. Her music often incorporates elements of Brazilian music, Middle Eastern influences, and a deep appreciation for swing and bebop traditions. This fusion of styles and her distinct voice on the instruments have established her as one of the leading clarinetists and saxophonists of her generation.

Anat Cohen has received numerous accolades for her contributions to jazz. She has been recognized with multiple DownBeat Critics’ Poll awards and has topped the critics’ polls in various categories, including Clarinet and Rising Star Jazz Artist. Her dedication to music and her ability to connect with audiences through her performances have solidified her status as a prominent figure in the contemporary jazz landscape.

Curiosities about Anat:

1. Mischievous Stage Antics: Anat Cohen is known for her exuberant stage presence and playful interactions with her fellow musicians. During her performances, she often engages in spirited musical exchanges and impromptu musical dialogues with her bandmates. Her energetic stage presence and sense of humor add an element of spontaneity and liveliness to her shows.
2. Multi-Instrumentalist: Anat Cohen is known for her versatility as a musician. While she is primarily recognized for her mastery of the clarinet, she is also skilled in playing various saxophones, including the tenor, alto, and soprano sax. Her ability to effortlessly switch between these instruments allows her to explore different tonalities and musical expressions.
3. Collaborations: Anat Cohen is known for her collaborative spirit and has performed and recorded with a wide array of renowned artists across various genres. From jazz legends like Paquito D’Rivera and Wynton Marsalis to Brazilian musicians such as Duduka da Fonseca and Trio Brasileiro, she has embraced musical partnerships that allow her to explore new musical territories and expand her artistic horizons.

Anat through his songs:

Now it´s time to know more about his music. There´s a short Spotify list with complete songs played by Anat Cohen.

 

5. Grace Kelly

Curiosities about Grace:

1. 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. Although they are not related, it can be amusing to think about the possibility of a saxophonist having the same name as a renowned Hollywood star.
2. Acting Career: In addition to her music, Grace Kelly has explored acting. She made her acting debut in the independent film “The Discoverers” in 2012, where she played a jazz musician. While her primary focus remains on music, her venture into acting showcases her artistic versatility.
3. 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. She was invited to participate in the International Jazz Day celebration, where she showcased her remarkable saxophone skills and shared the stage with other esteemed jazz artists.
4. 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.” This achievement highlighted her talent not only as an instrumentalist but also as a songwriter.

Grace through his songs:

Now it´s time to know more about his music. There´s a short Spotify list with complete songs played by Grace Kelly.

 

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. Her father, Marcos Aldana, is also a renowned saxophonist, and he played a significant role in shaping her musical development.

Aldana’s talent and dedication led her to pursue a career in jazz. She moved to the United States in 2007 to study at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. During her time at Berklee, she honed her skills and developed her unique voice on the tenor saxophone. Her playing is marked by a captivating blend of technical virtuosity, lyrical expression, and a deep understanding of the jazz tradition.

In 2013, Melissa Aldana achieved a significant milestone in her career by becoming the first female instrumentalist and the first South American musician to win the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition. This victory brought her widespread recognition and established her as a rising star in the jazz world.

Throughout her career, Aldana has released a series of critically acclaimed albums, including “Back Home,” “Visions,” and “Visions Trilogy.” Her compositions and performances showcase her ability to seamlessly navigate between traditional jazz vocabulary and contemporary influences, resulting in a fresh and distinctive sound.

Melissa Aldana continues to push the boundaries of jazz, exploring new musical territories and collaborating with renowned artists. Her innovative approach to the tenor saxophone, her commitment to her craft, and her unwavering dedication to her artistic vision have solidified her position as a leading voice in modern jazz.

Curiosities about Melissa:

1. Jazz Family Legacy: Melissa Aldana comes from a family with a strong jazz legacy. Her father, Marcos Aldana, is a highly respected saxophonist and educator. Growing up in this musical environment, she was exposed to jazz from an early age and received guidance and inspiration from her father. This familial connection to jazz has played a significant role in shaping her artistic development.
2. Connection to Sonny Rollins: Melissa Aldana has a special connection to the legendary saxophonist Sonny Rollins. After winning the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition in 2013, she received a surprise phone call from Rollins himself, who congratulated her on her victory. Rollins has been a significant influence on Aldana’s playing, and this unexpected encounter with her idol was a memorable and inspiring moment in her career.
3. Cultural Influences: As a Chilean-born artist, Melissa Aldana incorporates her cultural heritage into her music. She draws inspiration from the rich musical traditions of Latin America and infuses elements of her Chilean roots into her compositions and improvisations. This fusion of influences adds a unique flavor to her sound and sets her apart in the jazz landscape.

Melissa through his songs:

Now it´s time to know more about his music. There´s a short Spotify list with complete songs played by Melissa Aldana.

 

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. She started playing the saxophone and clarinet in her teenage years, honing her skills and immersing herself in the vibrant jazz culture of the time.

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. The band gained popularity for their energetic performances, tight arrangements, and Gilbert’s skillful saxophone playing.

Gilbert’s musical career spanned several decades, and she continued to perform and lead bands well into her 90s. She embraced various styles of jazz, from traditional Dixieland to swing and big band. Her innovative spirit and dedication to her craft set her apart as a trailblazer for women in jazz.

Aside from her musical accomplishments, Peggy Gilbert was also an advocate for gender equality in the music industry. She fought against discrimination and worked tirelessly to create opportunities for female musicians. Her influence and perseverance paved the way for future generations of women in jazz, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the genre.

Peggy Gilbert’s legacy as a talented saxophonist, bandleader, and advocate for gender equality in jazz is a testament to her enduring impact on the music world. Her contributions opened doors for countless female musicians and serve as an inspiration for aspiring artists to this day.

Curiosities about Peggy:

1. The Musical Dog: Peggy Gilbert was known for her love of animals, particularly dogs. She had a pet dog that she would often bring to rehearsals and performances. The dog became something of a mascot for her band and would occasionally join in the musical proceedings by howling or barking along with the music. This added an unexpected and humorous element to their performances, and audiences would eagerly anticipate the dog’s musical contributions.
2. Longevity in Music: Peggy Gilbert’s love for music and performing spanned several decades. She continued to play and lead her band well into her 90s, making her one of the oldest active jazz musicians. Her longevity and dedication to her craft serve as an inspiration to musicians of all ages.
3. All-Girl Band Pioneer: Peggy Gilbert was a trailblazer for women in jazz, as she formed and led one of the first all-female jazz bands in the 1920s. At a time when it was uncommon for women to play instruments professionally, Gilbert defied expectations and created opportunities for female musicians to showcase their talents.

Now it´s time to know more about his music. There´s a short Spotify list with complete songs played by Peggy Gilbert.

 

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. Coming from a musical family—her mother was a singer and her father played trumpet—Redd’s passion for music was nurtured from an early age. She started playing the saxophone in her teenage years, and her exceptional talent soon garnered attention.

Redd gained recognition for her rich, soulful tone and her energetic and dynamic performances. She possessed a remarkable ability to blend elements of bebop, blues, and R&B in her playing, creating a unique and captivating sound. In addition to her instrumental prowess, Redd showcased her vocal talents, often incorporating singing into her performances.

Throughout her career, Redd worked with notable jazz artists such as Dizzy Gillespie, Charles Mingus, and Rahsaan Roland Kirk. She released several albums as a bandleader, including the acclaimed “Bird Call” and “Lady Soul.” Her recordings showcase her virtuosic saxophone playing, expressive singing, and a deep understanding of jazz tradition.

While Redd’s career experienced some setbacks due to personal reasons and the challenges faced by women in the male-dominated jazz industry, she never stopped making music. Her contributions to the jazz world, both as a saxophonist and vocalist, have solidified her status as a respected and influential figure. Vi Redd’s unwavering dedication to her craft and her ability to infuse her music with emotion and soul make her a cherished and significant artist in the jazz canon.

Curiosities about Vi:

1. Early Beginnings: Vi Redd’s musical journey started at a young age. She began playing the piano at just five years old before later transitioning to the saxophone. Her early exposure to music, along with her natural talent, laid the foundation for her future success in the jazz world.
2. 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. This familial link to one of the most influential figures in jazz history likely had a significant impact on Redd’s musical development.
3. Pioneering Spirit: Vi Redd was a trailblazer as a female saxophonist in the predominantly male-dominated jazz industry. In an era when women instrumentalists faced considerable barriers, Redd fearlessly broke through these boundaries, establishing herself as a powerful force in jazz. Her tenacity and talent paved the way for future generations of women in the genre.

Now it´s time to know more about his music. There´s a short Spotify list with complete songs played by Vi Redd.

 

9. Jutta Hipp

Jutta Hipp was a German-born jazz pianist and saxophonist who made a significant impact on the jazz scene in the 1950s. Born on February 4, 1925, in Leipzig, Germany, Hipp developed a passion for music at a young age. She initially studied classical piano but later discovered her love for jazz. Influenced by American jazz recordings, she delved into the genre and developed her unique style.

In 1955, Hipp moved to the United States and settled in New York City, which was a hub for jazz during that time. She quickly gained recognition for her exceptional piano skills and became an active participant in the city’s jazz community. She formed a trio and began performing at various jazz clubs, including the famous Birdland.

Hipp’s playing style was characterized by her technical proficiency, harmonic complexity, and strong sense of rhythm. Her improvisational skills and compositions showcased her deep understanding of jazz tradition while incorporating her own innovative ideas. She recorded two albums, “Jutta Hipp with Zoot Sims” and “Jutta Hipp at the Hickory House,” which received critical acclaim and helped solidify her reputation as a talented pianist.

Unfortunately, Hipp’s career was short-lived. She struggled with personal and financial challenges, leading her to withdraw from the jazz scene and return to Germany in the late 1950s. She eventually retired from performing and lived a quiet life until her passing on April 7, 2003.

Despite her relatively brief time in the spotlight, Jutta Hipp’s contributions to jazz are still recognized and celebrated today. Her unique piano playing and compositions showcased her talent and creativity, leaving a lasting impact on the genre. Her story serves as a reminder of the resilience and artistic brilliance of jazz musicians during that era.

Curiosities about Jutta:

1. Self-Taught Pianist: Jutta Hipp was a self-taught jazz pianist. Despite having a background in classical piano, she developed her unique jazz style through her own exploration and dedication. Her ability to adapt and excel in a genre outside of her formal training showcases her natural talent and love for jazz.
2. Reluctance to Record: Despite her talent and critical acclaim, Jutta Hipp was initially hesitant to record her music. She preferred live performances and felt that capturing the energy and spontaneity of her playing in a studio setting would be challenging. It wasn’t until producer Alfred Lion convinced her to record that she finally agreed to make her two well-regarded albums.
3. Limited Discography: Jutta Hipp’s discography is relatively small, consisting of only two albums recorded during her time in the United States. Her first album, “Jutta Hipp with Zoot Sims,” was released in 1956, and her second album, “Jutta Hipp at the Hickory House,” followed in 1957. Despite her limited output, her recordings continue to be revered for their quality and musicality.

Now it´s time to know more about his music. There´s a short Spotify list with complete songs played by Jutta Hipp.

 

10. Camille Thurman

Camille Thurman is a multi-talented American jazz musician known for her skills as a saxophonist, vocalist, composer, and educator. Born on October 9, 1986, in New York City, Thurman showed an early aptitude for music. She began playing the saxophone at the age of 11 and quickly developed a passion for jazz.

Thurman’s playing style on the saxophone is marked by her technical prowess, rich tone, and improvisational fluency. She has a versatile approach that encompasses elements of swing, bebop, and modern jazz. As a vocalist, she possesses a powerful and soulful voice, displaying a wide vocal range and a deep understanding of the jazz vocal tradition.

Throughout her career, Camille Thurman has performed with esteemed jazz musicians, including Wynton Marsalis, Terri Lyne Carrington, and George Coleman. She has released several albums as a bandleader, including “Origins” and “Waiting for the Sunrise,” which have received critical acclaim for their artistry and musicality.

In addition to her performing career, Thurman is dedicated to music education. She has conducted workshops and masterclasses, sharing her knowledge and inspiring aspiring musicians. Her commitment to fostering the next generation of jazz artists reflects her belief in the importance of passing on the jazz tradition.

Camille Thurman’s talent, versatility, and dedication to her craft have established her as a prominent figure in the contemporary jazz scene. Her ability to excel both as a saxophonist and vocalist sets her apart, allowing her to bring a unique and captivating energy to her performances. With her exceptional musicianship and passion for jazz, Thurman continues to make a significant impact on the genre.

Curiosities about Camille:

1. Whistling Ability: One unique and lesser-known talent of Camille Thurman is her exceptional ability to whistle. She incorporates whistling into her performances, adding a distinctive and surprising element to her music. Her skillful whistling has become a signature part of her artistic expression.
2. Musical Collaboration with Her Husband: Camille Thurman shares a close musical bond with her husband, Darrell Green, who is a renowned jazz drummer. They often collaborate and perform together, creating a dynamic and harmonious musical partnership. Their shared love for jazz and their ability to connect on stage adds an extra layer of chemistry and excitement to their performances.
3. Multi-Instrumentalist: While Camille Thurman is primarily known for her skills as a saxophonist and vocalist, she is also proficient in other instruments. She plays the flute, clarinet, and piano, showcasing her versatility and broad musical knowledge

Now it´s time to know more about his music. There´s a short Spotify list with complete songs played by Camille Thurman.

 

 

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.

 

Odisei Music Team