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“It is often surprising to hear the talent we have lurking about our fair city, and saxophonist Rob Denty is no exception.” (jazzchicago.net)

 

A native of Georgia, Rob Denty has been an active musician since picking up the saxophone at age 10.  After graduating from the University of North Florida, Rob moved to Chicago in 1995 and quickly became involved in the city’s vibrant music scene.  In 2001, Rob joined the Chicago Jazz Ensemble in residence at Columbia College, then under the direction of William Russo and later directed by Jon Faddis.   

 

“One can hear a variety of musical style influences in his playing, including traditional jazz, free jazz, classical and popular music.  Full of graceful solos, airy flights and an outstanding feel for musical phrases and melodic growth….” (Bielawiec)

 

Rob Denty has backed many world-class artists including Aretha Franklin, Branford Marsalis, Mary Wilson and the Supremes, Cedar Walton, Doc Severinsen, Eddie Henderson, Lynne Arriale, Christian McBride, Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Clark Terry, actors Gary Sinese and Bob Newhart,  Joe Lovano and Frankie Valli.  He has performed at numerous national and international venues including East Coast Jazz Festival, Washington D.C.; Symphony Center, Chicago; Max M. Fisher Music Center, Detroit; Teatro Manzoni, Milan, Italy; Chicago Jazz Festival, The Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild, Pittsburg; Ravinia Festival, and The Oprah Winfrey Show.  

 

Rob leads and co-leads his own groups which have produced two recordings, “Etched” and “Round and Round.” 

 

“More than well worth a listen, Rob Denty’s first offering, “Round and Round” is a rousing and impressive beginning for one of Chicago’s rising young stars of jazz. I’m sure we’ll be hearing more from the talented Denty and his quartet in the future.” (Edward Blanco, ejazznews.com)

 

He looks forward to the upcoming release of Duo Plus, Vol. 1 — A collaborative recording with Drummer/ Percussionist, Tim Mulvenna.   

 

Rob is also an active educator who completed his Master’s Degree in Jazz Studies at DePaul University.  He has been involved, under the guidance of Jon Faddis and Wycliffe Gordan, in the Louis Armstrong Legacy program which places jazz mentors in the Chicago Public schools.  Rob Denty conducts clinics and workshops and maintains a full studio of private students.  

 

"One of the most remarkable saxophonist in the Chicago jazz scene..., Rob Denty's performance ability is one of a kind." (Bielawiec)

 

 

 

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I'm proud of all the musicians I've backed and performed with throughout my career.  These lists can get pretty obnoxious.  But, here it is.

 

Slide Hampton, Ramsey Lewis, Johnny Griffin, Ira Sullivan, Aretha Franklin, Joe Lovano, Sylvia McNair, Buddy DeFranco, Doc Severinsen, Jimmy Heath, Kevin Mahogany, Vinny Calliuta, John Fedchock, Dick Hyman, Bill Hollman, actor Gary Sinese, Cedar Walton, Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Clark Terry, Henry Butler, Von Freeman, Lonnie Brooks, Lee Konitz, Lenny Niehaus, Gerald Wilson, Dave Valentin, Miguel Zenon, Claudia Acuna, Eric Alexander, The O'Jays, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Regina Carter, Lalo Schifrin, Christian McBride, Dr. Billy Taylor, Bill Dobbins, Alvin Batiste, Mary Wilson and the Supremes,Curtis Fuller, Patti Austin, Paquita D’ Rivera, Judy Silvano, Eddie Henderson, Frankie Valli, Lew Soloff Randy Brecker, Donald Harrison, Tom Harrell, Terrell Stafford, Lynne Arriale, Etienne Charles, Marcus Printup, David “Fathead” Newman, Phil Woods, Donald Harrison, Henry Butler, Steve Turre, Roscoe Mitchell, Muhal Richard Abrams, Steve Wilson, David Sanchez, Branford Marsalis, Victor Goines, and Meshell Ndegeocello

 

 

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