Jazz has a rich history, filled with influential artists who have shaped its sound and style over the decades. Among these musicians, clarinetists hold a special place, bringing a unique voice to the genre. Here are ten jazz clarinetists everyone needs to know, each leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.
1. Sidney Bechet
Sidney Bechet was one of the first important soloists in jazz history, a pioneer whose influence extends far beyond his era. Born in New Orleans in 1897, Bechet started his musical journey on the clarinet before also mastering the soprano saxophone, which became his primary instrument later in his career. His style was characterized by a robust and expressive tone, full of vibrato and emotional depth.
Bechet’s contributions to jazz are monumental. He was a central figure in the development of the New Orleans sound, playing with some of the biggest names of the time, including King Oliver and Louis Armstrong. His ability to improvise and his technical proficiency set a new standard for jazz musicians. Notable recordings include “Petite Fleur,” “Summertime,” and “Blue Horizon.” Bechet’s legacy lives on as a testament to the power of individual expression in jazz.
2. Barney Bigard
Barney Bigard, born in 1906 in New Orleans, is best known for his work with Duke Ellington’s Orchestra. His playing was deeply rooted in the New Orleans tradition, but he also brought a sophisticated, polished sound that was perfect for the big band era. Bigard’s clarinet tone was smooth and warm, and his solos often combined technical brilliance with lyrical phrasing.
Bigard joined Duke Ellington in 1927 and remained with him for over a decade, contributing to some of the orchestra’s most iconic recordings, such as “Mood Indigo” and “Clarinet Lament.” After leaving Ellington, Bigard continued to have a successful career, playing with other jazz legends like Louis Armstrong. His influence on the clarinet and jazz as a whole is undeniable, as he helped bridge the gap between the traditional New Orleans style and the more modern swing era.
3. Don Byron
Don Byron, born in 1958 in the Bronx, New York, is a clarinetist known for his eclectic and innovative approach to jazz. Byron’s music spans a wide range of genres, including classical, klezmer, hip-hop, and more, but his roots are firmly planted in jazz. His ability to cross genres and blend different musical influences makes him one of the most versatile and creative clarinetists of his generation.
Byron’s groundbreaking album, “Bug Music,” pays homage to the music of Duke Ellington, Raymond Scott, and John Kirby, showcasing his ability to reinterpret classic works with a contemporary twist. His contributions to the avant-garde jazz scene, along with his work in film scores and collaborations with other artists, highlight his role as a forward-thinking musician who continually pushes the boundaries of jazz.
4. Anat Cohen
Anat Cohen, born in Tel Aviv, Israel, in 1975, is a contemporary clarinetist who has brought a fresh and vibrant energy to the jazz world. Her playing is deeply rooted in the jazz tradition, but she also incorporates elements of Brazilian music, classical, and folk, creating a unique and compelling sound. Cohen’s technical prowess and expressive playing have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
Cohen’s albums, such as “Claroscuro” and “Luminosa,” showcase her ability to blend different musical styles seamlessly. Her performances are known for their emotional depth and technical excellence, making her one of the most exciting clarinetists in jazz today. Cohen’s contribution to jazz is significant, as she continues to expand the instrument’s possibilities and bring new audiences to the genre.
5. Eddie Daniels
Eddie Daniels, born in New York City in 1941, is a clarinetist renowned for his technical virtuosity and versatility. Daniels is equally comfortable in classical music and jazz, and his ability to navigate between the two genres has set him apart from his peers. His playing is characterized by a flawless technique, a beautiful tone, and an ability to convey a wide range of emotions.
Daniels’ groundbreaking album “Breakthrough” brought him widespread recognition in the jazz world, showcasing his ability to blend classical and jazz elements seamlessly. He has performed with some of the biggest names in music, including Benny Goodman, and has received numerous awards for his contributions to both jazz and classical music. Daniels’ influence on the clarinet is profound, as he has pushed the boundaries of what the instrument can achieve in both genres.
6. Paquito D’Rivera
Paquito D’Rivera, born in Havana, Cuba, in 1948, is a clarinetist and saxophonist known for his vibrant and energetic playing. D’Rivera’s music blends jazz with Latin American rhythms, creating a dynamic and infectious sound. His technical brilliance and charismatic performances have made him a beloved figure in the jazz world.
D’Rivera’s career began in Cuba, where he co-founded the Orquesta Cubana de Música Moderna and the renowned group Irakere. After defecting to the United States in 1980, he quickly established himself as a leading figure in the jazz and Latin music scenes. His albums, such as “Havana Café” and “Portraits of Cuba,” showcase his ability to fuse different musical traditions while maintaining a distinct and personal voice. D’Rivera’s contributions to jazz are significant, as he continues to inspire musicians and audiences with his innovative approach and infectious enthusiasm.
7. Pete Fountain
Pete Fountain, born in New Orleans in 1930, was a clarinetist known for his warm, smooth tone and his deep connection to the traditional jazz of his hometown. Fountain’s playing was characterized by its lyrical quality and effortless swing, making him one of the most beloved clarinetists in jazz history.
Fountain gained national recognition through his performances on “The Lawrence Welk Show” and later established himself as a major figure in the New Orleans jazz scene with his own nightclub in the French Quarter. His recordings, such as “Pete Fountain’s New Orleans” and “Mr. New Orleans,” capture the essence of his playing and his deep love for the music of his city. Fountain’s legacy is a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional jazz and the power of a beautiful, heartfelt clarinet sound.
8. Benny Goodman
Benny Goodman, born in Chicago in 1909, is one of the most iconic figures in jazz history. Known as the “King of Swing,” Goodman played a crucial role in popularizing jazz and bringing it into the mainstream during the 1930s and 1940s. His clarinet playing was characterized by its precision, clarity, and infectious swing, making him a central figure in the big band era.
Goodman’s career was marked by numerous achievements, including the historic 1938 Carnegie Hall concert, which is considered one of the most important events in jazz history. His recordings, such as “Sing, Sing, Sing” and “Stompin’ at the Savoy,” remain classics of the genre. Goodman’s influence extends beyond his technical prowess, as he also broke racial barriers by hiring African American musicians like Teddy Wilson and Lionel Hampton for his band. Benny Goodman’s legacy is a testament to the power of jazz to transcend boundaries and bring people together.
9. Pee Wee Russell
Pee Wee Russell, born in Missouri in 1906, was a clarinetist known for his highly individual and expressive style. Russell’s playing was unconventional, characterized by its raw, emotional quality and unique phrasing. He was a central figure in the Dixieland and traditional jazz scenes, but his approach to the clarinet was always deeply personal and innovative.
Russell’s career spanned several decades, during which he played with many of the greats of jazz, including Louis Armstrong, Eddie Condon, and Bix Beiderbecke. His recordings, such as “Pee Wee Russell Plays” and “Portrait of Pee Wee,” showcase his distinctive sound and his ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his instrument. Russell’s influence on jazz is profound, as he demonstrated that true artistry comes from individuality and personal expression.
10. Artie Shaw
Artie Shaw, born in New York City in 1910, was a clarinetist and bandleader known for his sophisticated and elegant playing. Shaw was one of the most popular and successful bandleaders of the swing era, rivaling even Benny Goodman in fame and influence. His clarinet playing was characterized by its smooth, lyrical quality and technical precision.
Shaw’s career was marked by numerous hits, including “Begin the Beguine,” “Stardust,” and “Frenesi.” His ability to blend jazz with classical influences set him apart from his contemporaries and helped elevate the clarinet to new heights. Shaw was also known for his innovative approach to arranging and his willingness to take artistic risks, such as disbanding his orchestra at the height of its success to pursue other musical interests. Artie Shaw’s legacy is a testament to the power of innovation and the pursuit of artistic excellence.
Conclusion
The clarinet has played a vital role in the development of jazz, and these ten musicians have each contributed to its rich and diverse history. From the pioneering work of Sidney Bechet to the contemporary innovations of Anat Cohen, these clarinetists have pushed the boundaries of the instrument and left an indelible mark on the world of music. Whether you’re a longtime jazz enthusiast or new to the genre, these artists are essential listening for anyone interested in the beauty and complexity of jazz.