Aaron Fletcher

Aaron Fletcher

Aaron Fletcher is a saxophonist associated with jazz and instrumental music. He begins on drums at the age of six and switches to saxophone a year later. His early musical development comes through church performance, where he builds experience as a young player and learns from older musicians who teach him both technique and stagecraft. This leads to his first paid performance at the age of 10.

Early training and education

By the age of 13, Fletcher is tested for Louisiana’s Talented and Gifted programme by Dr. Kenneth Klaus and Professor Charlotte Pipes of Nicholls State University. His ability is also assessed by pianist Ellis Marsalis, who recommends that he attend the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, an institution known for training musicians including Branford and Wynton Marsalis, Harry Connick Jr. and Terence Blanchard.

Career

After graduating from the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, Fletcher is offered a place in Terence Blanchard’s band. Touring with Blanchard gives him the opportunity to work with a number of major artists, including Wynton Marsalis, Roy Hargrove, Spike Lee, Stevie Wonder and Wyclef Jean. In 2002, he is a finalist in the Thelonious Monk International Saxophone Competition, which brings together leading saxophonists.

Los Angeles collaboration

Later in 2002, Fletcher moves to Los Angeles, where he meets songwriter Michael Alan Henderson. The pair collaborate on an instrumental project intended to present a new sound.