Mike DiRubbo
Hard Bop Mastery
A master of the alto saxophone, Mike DiRubbo is celebrated for his aggressive swing and a powerful, biting tone inherited from his mentor Jackie McLean.
hard boppost-bop
About
Originally from New Haven, Connecticut, Mike DiRubbo is a renowned jazz alto saxophonist who emerged in the New York jazz scene in the late 1990s. A protégé of legend Jackie McLean, he has recorded extensively as a leader for prominent labels like Criss Cross and Posi-Tone.
Music Style
DiRubbo is known for his sharp, 'steely' tone and a high-intensity improvisational style that combines blues feeling with complex post-bop structures.
Background
- Hometown
- New Haven, CT
- Education
- The Hartt School
- Instruments
- saxophone (alto)
- Active
- 1990s-present
Similar Artists
If you like Jackie McLean or Vincent Herring, you'll love Mike DiRubbo.
Jackie McLean
DiRubbo was a student of McLean and shares his signature sharp, piercing tone and aggressive approach to swing.
100%
Vincent Herring
Both saxophonists represent a high-energy, virtuosic continuation of the hard-bop alto tradition.
85%
Phil Woods
DiRubbo follows in the lineage of alto masters who possess absolute technical command and deep bebop roots.
80%
Notable Collaborations
Jackie McLeanHarold MabernLarry WillisSteve DavisTony Reedus
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Upcoming Events
Mike DiRubbo's next NYC show is Friday, August 28 at Jazzcultural.