List Artists by A-Z | List Artists by Instrument

Stan Getz Stan Getz, born on February 2, 1927, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was an American jazz saxophonist known for his smooth, lyrical playing style and his influential contributions to the cool jazz and bossa nova genres. Getz's career spanned over five decades, during which he became one of the most acclaimed and respected saxophonists in the history of jazz. Getz began playing saxophone at a young age and quickly developed a reputation as a talented and innovative musician. He rose to prominence in the 1940s as a member of Woody Herman's big band, where his melodic improvisations and warm tone earned him widespread acclaim. In the 1950s, Getz emerged as a leading figure in the cool jazz movement, a style of jazz that emphasized slower tempos, light textures, and a relaxed, laid-back feel. Getz's playing was perfectly suited to the cool jazz style, and he became known for his smooth, lyrical lines and his ability to convey emotion through his playing. One of Getz's most famous recordings is his 1964 album "Getz/Gilberto," recorded with Brazilian guitarist Joao Gilberto and pianist Antonio Carlos Jobim. The album, which features the classic bossa nova tunes "The Girl from Ipanema" and "Corcovado," became a huge hit and helped popularize bossa nova music around the world. Getz continued to record and perform throughout his career, collaborating with some of the greatest musicians in jazz, including Oscar Peterson, Bill Evans, and Chick Corea. His playing was characterized by its elegance, sophistication, and emotional depth, and he remains one of the most beloved and respected saxophonists in the history of jazz. Stan Getz passed away on June 6, 1991, but his music continues to be celebrated and admired by jazz fans around the world. His smooth, lyrical playing style and his influential contributions to the cool jazz and bossa nova genres have cemented his legacy as one of the true giants of jazz saxophone.