Walt Weiskopf
Saxophonist, composer, and author Walt Weiskopf has established himself as a formidable presence in modern jazz, with over a dozen critically acclaimed albums as a leader and an extensive resume of sideman work. Renowned for his dynamic playing and technical mastery, Weiskopf is equally respected for his sophisticated compositions, which feature predominantly original material.
His latest album, Fountain Of Youth (Posi-Tone, 2017), features a stellar ensemble including vibraphonist Behn Gillece, pianist Peter Zak, bassist Mike Karn, and drummer Steve Fidyk. The recording showcases Weiskopf’s continued growth as a composer and bandleader, highlighting a new level of virtuosity and compositional finesse. This release is his fourth on Posi-Tone, following The Way You Say It (2016), Open Road (2015), and Overdrive (2014).
Born in Augusta, Georgia and raised near Syracuse, New York, Weiskopf began his musical journey on clarinet at age 10, switching to saxophone at 14. After graduating from the Eastman School of Music in just three years, he relocated to New York City in 1980. By 1981, he was performing professionally with the Buddy Rich Big Band.
In 1983, Weiskopf joined Toshiko Akiyoshi’s orchestra, a collaboration lasting 14 years and including seven recordings and numerous international tours. During this period, he began recording as a leader. He earned a Master of Arts in clarinet performance from Queens College under the guidance of clarinetist Leon Russianoff.
Since 1993, Weiskopf has released seventeen albums as a leader, all well-received by critics and jazz audiences alike. He has also been a valued sideman for renowned artists such as Frank Sinatra, Donald Fagen, Steve Smith’s Jazz Legacy, and maintains a long-running association with Steely Dan.
In addition to his performing career, Weiskopf is a highly respected educator and author, having published eight influential books on jazz improvisation and harmony. His works include Coltrane: A Player’s Guide to His Harmony, The Augmented Scale in Jazz, Intervallic Improvisation, Around The Horn, Beyond The Horn, and several volumes of jazz solos published by Jamey Aebersold.
Weiskopf has held academic positions at the Eastman School of Music, Temple University, and most recently served as Coordinator of Jazz Studies at New Jersey City University.
Saxophonist, composer, and author Walt Weiskopf has established himself as a formidable presence in modern jazz, with over a dozen critically acclaimed albums as a leader and an extensive resume of sideman work. Renowned for his dynamic playing and technical mastery, Weiskopf is equally respected for his sophisticated compositions, which feature predominantly original material.
His latest album, Fountain Of Youth (Posi-Tone, 2017), features a stellar ensemble including vibraphonist Behn Gillece, pianist Peter Zak, bassist Mike Karn, and drummer Steve Fidyk. The recording showcases Weiskopf’s continued growth as a composer and bandleader, highlighting a new level of virtuosity and compositional finesse. This release is his fourth on Posi-Tone, following The Way You Say It (2016), Open Road (2015), and Overdrive (2014).
Born in Augusta, Georgia and raised near Syracuse, New York, Weiskopf began his musical journey on clarinet at age 10, switching to saxophone at 14. After graduating from the Eastman School of Music in just three years, he relocated to New York City in 1980. By 1981, he was performing professionally with the Buddy Rich Big Band.
In 1983, Weiskopf joined Toshiko Akiyoshi’s orchestra, a collaboration lasting 14 years and including seven recordings and numerous international tours. During this period, he began recording as a leader. He earned a Master of Arts in clarinet performance from Queens College under the guidance of clarinetist Leon Russianoff.
Since 1993, Weiskopf has released seventeen albums as a leader, all well-received by critics and jazz audiences alike. He has also been a valued sideman for renowned artists such as Frank Sinatra, Donald Fagen, Steve Smith’s Jazz Legacy, and maintains a long-running association with Steely Dan.
In addition to his performing career, Weiskopf is a highly respected educator and author, having published eight influential books on jazz improvisation and harmony. His works include Coltrane: A Player’s Guide to His Harmony, The Augmented Scale in Jazz, Intervallic Improvisation, Around The Horn, Beyond The Horn, and several volumes of jazz solos published by Jamey Aebersold.
Weiskopf has held academic positions at the Eastman School of Music, Temple University, and most recently served as Coordinator of Jazz Studies at New Jersey City University.