PRESENT
GREG ABATE
Greg Abate, jazz saxophonist, flutist, composer, continues as an international jazz/recording artist with 150/200 days a year touring the globe. In the mid 1970’s, after finishing a four year programme at Berklee College of Music, Greg played lead alto and arranger for the RAY CHARLES Orchestra.
In 1978 Greg formed his group Channel One which was a favourite in the New England area and from there he had the opportunity to play tenor sax with the revived Artie Shaw Orchestra from 1986 to 1987.Greg then ventured out as a soloist playing festivals, societies, clubs and theatres throughout the USA, Canada, Europe, Russia. Greg has guested with Tad Newton’s Jazzfriends on a number of occasions, notably at Teignmouth Jazz Festival where he is featured on a live recording with the band and at Birmingham Jazz Festival and Swanage Jazz Festival.
Greg recorded his first CD “Live at Birdland” in New York in 1991 on the Candid Jazz Label with James Williams, Rufus Reid and Kenny Washington.
To this date Greg has recorded over 12 other albums and was nominated for a Grammy award in no less than four categories for his 2004 recording “Evolution”.
Greg is also an adjunct professor of jazz studies at Rhode Island College and is also a very active jazz clinician with sponsorship from Conn-Selmer Instrument Co., conducting workshops and master classes all over the world.
What they say about Greg Abate :
“…Abate’s musical style can be seen as a distillation of swing’s easygoing vibe and jazz’s more animated groove…he has developed a unique voice” … Metro, San Jose
“Greg Abate is an absolute powerhouse…one the most exciting players around today, Greg’s commitment to the music is total.”…The Jazz Messenger
“ Greg Abate is one of the most appealing jazz saxophonists on the world scene today. He is mature with an abundance of self confidence. The result is that he plays music with sweetness and daring” .. New Jazz Recordings
