Donny McCaslin

Donny McCaslin is a US jazz saxophonist from Santa Clara, California. Born in 1966, he works in jazz and post-bop and is known both for his own recordings and for extensive sideman work. He records as a bandleader and has released more than a dozen albums, alongside many appearances on other artists’ projects.

Early life and training

McCaslin grows up in Santa Cruz, California, where he first hears jazz as a toddler while attending his father’s vibraphone and piano performances. He begins playing tenor saxophone at 12 and develops quickly. By 15, he is already performing around town as both a sideman and the leader of his own groups.

Before finishing high school, he tours Europe with the Monterey Jazz Festival’s California All-Star Big Band. He also studies at Cabrillo College with arranger and bassist Ray Brown. He later wins a full scholarship to Berklee School of Music in Boston, where he plays with a range of leading jazz musicians, including a four-year period touring internationally with Gary Burton. After completing a master’s degree, he moves to New York.

Career

In New York, McCaslin builds a career as a sought-after sideman, working with Steps Ahead, Danilo Perez, Eddie Gomez, Dave Douglas, Ken Schaphorst and Maria Schneider. His recorded work receives critical attention, including a Grammy nomination in 2004 for Best Jazz Instrumental Solo for Maria Schneider’s Concert In The Garden.

He also receives the 2008 Down Beat Rising Star Award. As a bandleader, he receives a Doris Duke grant for new jazz composition from Chamber Music America, which leads to the recording In Pursuit.

Blackstar and wider recognition

McCaslin comes to wider prominence when David Bowie hires McCaslin’s ensemble to serve as the backing band on Blackstar (2016), Bowie’s final studio album.

Musical approach

McCaslin is described as a broad-minded player who works across styles from different eras and regions. In interviews, he identifies John Coltrane as his primary influence.

Associated acts

He is associated with William Cepeda Afrorican Jazz, Joel Harrison 7 and McCaslin Dahle.