Masters of the Low End: The Great Baritone Saxophone Players of Today

The baritone saxophone, with its commanding presence and rich, resonant voice, holds a unique and powerful place in modern music. While discussions of its greatest living exponents often highlight subjective preferences, several artists consistently emerge as defining masters of the instrument today, each carving a distinct path across genres from jazz to avant-garde and energetic street music.

In the realm of straight-ahead and modern jazz, Ronnie Cuber stands as a titan. Recognized for his "powerfully melting fluency and melody," Cuber possesses a supreme technical command that has made him the benchmark for the instrument for decades. His prolific career as a soloist, sideman, and composer solidifies his status. As one enthusiast succinctly put it, the baritone saxophone has Ronnie Cuber, much as the tenor had Michael Brecker—a testament to his defining influence.

The adventurous and expressive realms of European jazz and improvisation are profoundly shaped by the work of John Surman. His approach to the baritone is deeply lyrical and expansive, often incorporating electronic elements and drawing from folk traditions. Surman’s playing is characterized by a masterful control of atmosphere and melody, establishing him as a uniquely innovative voice.

While the late Hamiet Bluiett, a founding member of the groundbreaking World Saxophone Quartet, remains a legendary favorite for many, his immense influence continues to resonate. For those exploring the instrument's potential for sheer power and blues-drenched expression within avant-garde jazz, Bluiett’s vast body of work remains essential listening, marking him as a pivotal figure in the baritone's history.

Beyond traditional jazz settings, a new generation has brought the baritone sax to the forefront of more eclectic, high-energy styles. Leo Pellegrino of Too Many Zooz and Wenzl McGowen of Moon Hooch have redefined the instrument's role in live performance. Their "very peppy" music, rooted in brass house and energetic dance rhythms, showcases a phenomenal technical prowess and charismatic stage presence, proving the baritone's versatility and capacity for driving, joyful sound.

Other notable masters continue to enrich the landscape. The formidable James Carter, a multi-instrumentalist known for his volcanic energy and deep historical knowledge, applies his virtuosic command to the baritone with astonishing power, as witnessed in legendary jam sessions at venues like Detroit’s Baker’s Keyboard Lounge. Meanwhile, artists like Jaroslav Jakubovic illustrate the instrument's vibrant tradition in European jazz scenes.

It is important to note that any list of "greats" is inherently subjective and can never be exhaustive. Some giants of the past, like the remarkable Nick Brignola, have passed on, but their legacy informs today’s players. The common thread among all these artists is an unparalleled dedication to mastering the saxophone’s most formidable member. From Ronnie Cuber’s flawless bebop lines to John Surman’s haunting soundscapes and Leo Pellegrino’s rhythmic explosions, these musicians collectively ensure that the deep, soulful voice of the baritone saxophone remains not just active, but vibrantly essential in contemporary music.

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