معرفی
Gary Bartz, a legendary jazz saxophonist and 2024 NEA Jazz Master, has been a Professor of Jazz Saxophone at Oberlin Conservatory of Music since 2001. With over 45 solo albums and collaborations with icons like Miles Davis, Art Blakey, and McCoy Tyner, his work bridges avant-garde jazz, hard bop, funk, and African folk music.
Education:
- Bachelor of Music, The Juilliard School
Bartz’s research and creative output focuses on informal composition (a term he prefers over improvisation), blending genres to transcend categorization. His NTU Troop (1970s) explored themes of unity and social justice through Langston Hughes-inspired works like I’ve Known Rivers. Later projects, such as Coltrane Rules and collaborations with Maisha, emphasize spiritual jazz and direct-to-disc recording.
His teaching philosophy at Oberlin prioritizes active listening to unlock students' musical identity, reflected in courses like Principal Private Study - Jazz Saxophone. Bartz has influenced generations of musicians through his innovative approach.
Scientific Awards:
- 2024 NEA Jazz Master
- 2015 BNY Mellon Jazz Living Legacy Award
- 2004 Grammy (Best Jazz Instrumental Album, sideman on McCoy Tyner’s Illuminations)
- 1997 Grammy (Best Latin Jazz Performance on Roy Hargrove’s Habana)
Bartz’s work with OYO Recordings (Own Your Own) and cross-generational collaborations exemplify his mission to empower artists to control their creative rights. He remains a vital force in jazz education and performance.
