Michael Rabinowitz
Bassoon Maverick
Transforming the bassoon into a frontline jazz voice since 1981.
About
Michael Rabinowitz (born November 27, 1955) is an American jazz bassoonist and specialized improviser. A founding member of the Charles Mingus Orchestra, he has performed with avant-garde and straight ahead jazz luminaries, regularly recording and touring with his own groups. His work encompasses over thirty years of active performance, blending bebop, free improvisation, and original composition.
Music Style
Rabinowitz's music is rooted in bebop and post-bop traditions, characterized by his fluent improvisations and a rich, warm tone on the bassoon. He navigates complex harmonic structures and brisk tempos with ease, often placing the bassoon in the role typically held by a saxophone or trumpet.
Background
- Hometown
- Bethany, New Haven County, Connecticut, USA
- Education
- SUNY Purchase
- Instruments
- bassoon
- Active
- 1981-present
Similar Artists
If you like pioneering instrumentalists who redefine their instrument's role in jazz, such as Toots Thielemans or Rahsaan Roland Kirk — you'll appreciate Michael Rabinowitz's unique voice.
Notable Collaborations
Upcoming Events
Michael Rabinowitz's next NYC show is Thursday, August 13 at The Django.