Caleb Wheeler Curtis
Daring Saxophonist Composer
Post-bop innovator blending progressive bop, post-Coltrane lyricism, and Ornette-rooted free improvisation with fearless compositional vision.
About
Caleb Wheeler Curtis is a saxophonist, trumpeter, and multi-instrumentalist known for his intensely focused and inventive style. Originally from Ann Arbor, Michigan and based in Brooklyn since 2009, he has emerged as one of the most interesting and compelling saxophonists of the 2020s. A MacDowell Fellow and prolific bandleader, he leads multiple ensembles and appears on Grammy-nominated albums with Orrin Evans' Captain Black Big Band.
Music Style
Curtis draws from progressive bop, post-Coltrane lyricism, and Ornette-rooted free improvisation, forging a distinctly personal approach. His music balances rigorous preparation with willingness to explore, creating compositions that range from serene to transformational.
Background
- Hometown
- Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Education
- Michigan State University, William Paterson University
- Instruments
- saxophone (alto), saxophone (soprano), saxophone (sopranino), saxophone (tenor), trumpet
- Active
- 2000s-present
Similar Artists
If you like Ornette Coleman, John Coltrane, and Arthur Blythe — you'll love this artist
Notable Collaborations
Upcoming Events
Caleb Wheeler Curtis's next NYC show is Friday, July 10 at Bar Bayeux.
Past Events
Caleb Wheeler Curtis
Caleb Wheeler Curtis with Emmanuel Michael, Michael Sarin, Hery Paz, Colson Jimenez
Caleb Wheeler Curtis and Kresten Osgood with Sean Conly, Michael Blake
Mathias Jensen with Caleb Wheeler Curtis, Evan Main, Steven Crammer
Showing 10 of 11 past events