John Ellis
New Orleans-NYC Saxophonist
Commanding tenor saxophonist blending New Orleans funk and gospel with modern New York jazz sophistication.
About
John Ellis is a premier tenor saxophonist born April 13, 1974, who bridges New Orleans and New York jazz traditions. He received a music degree from the New School and won second place in the 2002 Thelonious Monk International Saxophone Competition. Ellis leads the eccentric urban carnival band Double-Wide and has composed three large-scale narrative works with playwright Andy Bragen.
Music Style
Ellis blends celebratory New Orleans grooves, gospel-tinged funk, and modern jazz harmony with big band language. His sound features a gorgeous, caramelized tone on tenor saxophone with versatility on clarinet and bass clarinet.
Background
- Hometown
- Rural North Carolina
- Education
- New School
- Instruments
- saxophone (tenor), saxophone (soprano), saxophone (alto), clarinet, bass clarinet
- Active
- 1990s-present
Similar Artists
If you like Charlie Hunter, Robert Glasper, and Darcy James Argue — you'll love this artist
Notable Collaborations
Upcoming Events
John Ellis's next NYC show is Thursday, September 3 at Smalls.