Ken Fowser
Ken Fowser has quickly established himself as one of the finest tenor saxophonists of his generation. Rooted in a deep jazz tradition, Fowser has developed a distinctive voice marked by a full-bodied tone, a linear approach to harmony, and a steadfast commitment to swing. He has been turning heads on the New York jazz scene from Smoke and Smalls to The Django at The Roxy Hotel in Tribeca, earning the attention of fans and peers alike.
Morning Light (Posi-Tone, 2020) is Fowser’s fifth album as a leader and features eleven original compositions performed by his stellar band, including Josh Bruneau (trumpet), Tadataka Unno (piano), Vince Dupont (bass), and Joe Strasser (drums). The album continues to showcase Fowser’s strong artistic vision—emotionally engaging, uplifting, and charismatically entertaining. Tipping his hat to recently departed jazz greats, Fowser channels heartfelt sentiment into fresh and compelling music. This release builds on the momentum of his previous acclaimed albums: Standing Tall (Posi-Tone, 2016), Now Hear This! (2017), Don’t Look Down (2018), and Right On Time (2019).
Fowser’s recording career began in 2009 with four critically acclaimed co-led albums alongside award-winning vibraphonist Behn Gillece on Posi-Tone: Full View (2009), Little Echo (2010), DuoTone (2011), and Top Shelf (2013). Their quintet won the prestigious Generations International Jazz Competition in 2010 in San Francisco.
Fowser’s formal education began at The University of the Arts in Philadelphia, where he studied under Tony Salicandro and Chris Farr, absorbing the influence of the iconic “Philly Sound.” He completed his undergraduate degree at William Paterson University under the tutelage of NEA Jazz Master Harold Mabern, a major ongoing influence. He earned his graduate degree from SUNY Purchase, studying with tenor greats Ralph Lalama, Grant Stewart, and Eric Alexander, with whom he developed a professional relationship through numerous gigs.
Despite his youth, Fowser’s collaborations include many of today’s leading jazz figures, such as Jimmy Cobb, David Hazeltine, Ray Drummond, Mickey Roker, Billy James, Tony Monaco, Pat Bianchi, Quincy Davis, Donald Vega, John Swana, and Byron Landham. He lives in New York City and regularly performs at top venues throughout the area.
Ken Fowser has quickly established himself as one of the finest tenor saxophonists of his generation. Rooted in a deep jazz tradition, Fowser has developed a distinctive voice marked by a full-bodied tone, a linear approach to harmony, and a steadfast commitment to swing. He has been turning heads on the New York jazz scene from Smoke and Smalls to The Django at The Roxy Hotel in Tribeca, earning the attention of fans and peers alike.
Morning Light (Posi-Tone, 2020) is Fowser’s fifth album as a leader and features eleven original compositions performed by his stellar band, including Josh Bruneau (trumpet), Tadataka Unno (piano), Vince Dupont (bass), and Joe Strasser (drums). The album continues to showcase Fowser’s strong artistic vision—emotionally engaging, uplifting, and charismatically entertaining. Tipping his hat to recently departed jazz greats, Fowser channels heartfelt sentiment into fresh and compelling music. This release builds on the momentum of his previous acclaimed albums: Standing Tall (Posi-Tone, 2016), Now Hear This! (2017), Don’t Look Down (2018), and Right On Time (2019).
Fowser’s recording career began in 2009 with four critically acclaimed co-led albums alongside award-winning vibraphonist Behn Gillece on Posi-Tone: Full View (2009), Little Echo (2010), DuoTone (2011), and Top Shelf (2013). Their quintet won the prestigious Generations International Jazz Competition in 2010 in San Francisco.
Fowser’s formal education began at The University of the Arts in Philadelphia, where he studied under Tony Salicandro and Chris Farr, absorbing the influence of the iconic “Philly Sound.” He completed his undergraduate degree at William Paterson University under the tutelage of NEA Jazz Master Harold Mabern, a major ongoing influence. He earned his graduate degree from SUNY Purchase, studying with tenor greats Ralph Lalama, Grant Stewart, and Eric Alexander, with whom he developed a professional relationship through numerous gigs.
Despite his youth, Fowser’s collaborations include many of today’s leading jazz figures, such as Jimmy Cobb, David Hazeltine, Ray Drummond, Mickey Roker, Billy James, Tony Monaco, Pat Bianchi, Quincy Davis, Donald Vega, John Swana, and Byron Landham. He lives in New York City and regularly performs at top venues throughout the area.