21 Most Famous Female Saxophone Players of All Time

The saxophone, an instrument often associated with jazz and blues, has seen a remarkable array of talented female players who have made significant contributions to music. These women have not only mastered the complexities of the saxophone but have also pushed the boundaries of various genres, including jazz, classical, and pop.

From pioneers who broke through gender barriers in the early days of jazz to contemporary artists blending diverse musical influences, female saxophonists have left an indelible mark on the music world.

This article explores the careers and achievements of some of the most famous female saxophone players, highlighting their unique styles and enduring impact on the musical landscape.

21 Most Famous Female Saxophonists That You Need to Hear

Here are 21 famous female saxophone players:

#1 Candy Dulfer

Candy Dulfer is a Dutch saxophonist known for her work in jazz, funk, and pop music. She gained international fame with her debut album “Saxuality” in 1990, which featured the hit single “Lily Was Here,” a collaboration with Dave Stewart of Eurythmics. Dulfer’s dynamic playing style and charismatic stage presence have made her a sought-after performer, and she has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Prince, with whom she had a longstanding musical partnership.

She has also worked with other notable musicians such as Maceo Parker, Van Morrison, and Pink Floyd. Dulfer’s career spans over three decades, during which she has released numerous albums showcasing her versatility and skill on the saxophone.

#2 Vi Redd

Vi Redd is an American jazz alto saxophonist and vocalist who emerged as a prominent figure in the 1960s. Redd is celebrated for her expressive playing and vibrant performances. She has performed with jazz legends such as Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, and Max Roach.

Despite facing the challenges of being a female musician in a male-dominated jazz world, Redd earned respect for her technical proficiency and soulful interpretations. Her notable recordings include “Bird Call,” which showcases her bebop influences and pays tribute to Charlie Parker. Redd’s contributions to jazz have been influential, inspiring future generations of female jazz musicians.

#3 Tia Fuller

Tia Fuller is a contemporary American jazz saxophonist, composer, and educator known for her work in both the jazz and pop music scenes. Fuller gained widespread recognition as a member of Beyoncé’s all-female band, touring and performing at major events like the Grammy Awards.

She has released several critically acclaimed solo albums, including “Decisive Steps” and “Diamond Cut,” the latter of which earned her a Grammy nomination. Fuller’s style blends traditional jazz elements with modern influences, and she is known for her powerful tone and intricate improvisations. In addition to her performing career, Fuller is a dedicated educator, serving as a professor at the Berklee College of Music.

#4 Barbara Thompson

Barbara Thompson was a British jazz saxophonist and composer, widely regarded for her contributions to the jazz and progressive rock genres. She was the leader of the band Paraphernalia and a key member of the band Colosseum.

Thompson’s playing was characterized by its lyrical quality and technical precision, and she was known for her work on both the alto and soprano saxophones. Her compositions often fused jazz with elements of classical and rock music, creating a unique and innovative sound. Despite battling Parkinson’s disease, Thompson continued to perform and compose music, leaving a lasting legacy in the jazz world with her extensive discography and influence.

#5 Grace Kelly

Grace Kelly is a young American saxophonist, singer, and composer who has garnered attention for her innovative approach to jazz and fusion. Kelly began her career at a young age, releasing her first album at the age of 12. She quickly gained recognition for her prodigious talent and has since performed with prominent musicians like Wynton Marsalis, Dave Brubeck, and Harry Connick Jr. Kelly’s style blends jazz with elements of pop, funk, and electronic music, and she is known for her charismatic performances and engaging stage presence.

She has received numerous awards and accolades, including the ASCAP Foundation’s Young Jazz Composer Award and multiple DownBeat Critics Poll awards.

#6 Ada Rovatti

Ada Rovatti is an Italian jazz saxophonist known for her versatile playing and collaborations with prominent jazz artists. Rovatti has worked extensively in both Europe and the United States, performing with musicians such as Randy Brecker, John McLaughlin, and Mike Stern. Her style is marked by a strong bebop influence, combined with a modern sensibility and expressive improvisation.

Rovatti has released several albums as a leader, including “Green Factor” and “Disguise,” which showcase her compositional skills and ability to blend different jazz styles. In addition to her performing career, Rovatti is also a dedicated educator, teaching masterclasses and workshops worldwide.

#7 Sue Terry

Sue Terry, also known as “Sweet Sue Terry,” is an accomplished American saxophonist, composer, and educator known for her work in jazz and world music. Terry has performed with a wide range of notable musicians, including Dr. John, Ray Barretto, and Jaki Byard.

She has a distinctive style that blends traditional jazz elements with contemporary and world music influences. Terry is also a prolific composer, having written for various ensembles and solo performances. In addition to her performing career, she is a respected educator, teaching at institutions such as The New School and City College of New York. Her contributions to jazz are noted for their lyrical quality and expressive depth.

#8 Geraldine Laurent

Geraldine Laurent is a French jazz saxophonist known for her emotive playing and innovative approach to the alto saxophone. Laurent has been a prominent figure in the European jazz scene, earning acclaim for her dynamic performances and unique sound.

She gained significant attention with her debut album “Time Out Trio” and continued to impress with subsequent releases like “At Work” and “Looking for Parker.” Laurent’s style is characterized by its fluidity and depth, blending bebop influences with modern jazz sensibilities. She has received numerous accolades, including the Django Reinhardt Prize, and continues to be a leading voice in contemporary jazz.

#9 Melissa Aldana

Melissa Aldana is a Chilean tenor saxophonist who has made a significant impact on the international jazz scene. She gained widespread recognition by winning the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition in 2013, becoming the first female instrumentalist to do so. Aldana is known for her technical prowess, rich tone, and innovative improvisational style.

Her albums, such as “Back Home” and “Visions,” have been critically acclaimed for their intricate compositions and emotional depth. Aldana draws inspiration from a wide range of influences, from the jazz tradition to contemporary music, making her one of the most exciting young talents in jazz today.

#10 Ingrid Laubrock

Ingrid Laubrock is a German-born saxophonist and composer known for her work in avant-garde jazz and contemporary music. Laubrock has been based in the United States for many years, where she has become a central figure in the experimental jazz scene.

She is known for her adventurous compositions and fearless improvisation, often exploring complex musical structures and unconventional sounds. Laubrock has released numerous albums as a leader, including “Anti-House” and “Contemporary Chaos Practices,” which showcase her innovative approach to both the alto and tenor saxophones. In addition to her performing career, Laubrock is a dedicated educator and has taught at various institutions and workshops around the world.

#11 Lakecia Benjamin

Lakecia Benjamin is an American saxophonist known for her energetic performances and blend of jazz, funk, and soul. Benjamin has performed with a wide range of artists, including Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys, and The Roots. Her style is marked by a powerful and soulful sound, with a strong emphasis on rhythm and groove. Benjamin’s albums, such as “Retox” and “Pursuance: The Coltranes,” have been praised for their innovative arrangements and vibrant energy.

In addition to her work as a performer, Benjamin is also a composer and bandleader, often incorporating influences from hip-hop and R&B into her music. She is recognized for her contributions to contemporary jazz and her dynamic stage presence.

#12 Jane Ira Bloom

Jane Ira Bloom is an American soprano saxophonist and composer known for her innovative approach to jazz and electronic music. Bloom is a pioneer in the use of live electronics and interactive computer systems in her performances, creating a unique and ethereal sound. She has released numerous albums as a leader, including “Early Americans” and “Wild Lines: Improvising Emily Dickinson,” which have been critically acclaimed for their creativity and depth.

Bloom’s playing is characterized by its lyrical quality and emotional intensity, and she has received multiple awards, including the Guggenheim Fellowship and the Mary Lou Williams Women in Jazz Award. Her work continues to push the boundaries of jazz and contemporary music.

#13 Annie Whitehead

Annie Whitehead is a British jazz trombonist and saxophonist known for her versatility and eclectic musical style. Although primarily known for her work on the trombone, Whitehead is also an accomplished saxophonist. She has performed with a wide range of artists and ensembles, including the Penguin Cafe Orchestra and the band Working Week. Whitehead’s music blends elements of jazz, reggae, ska, and African rhythms, reflecting her diverse influences and interests.

She has released several albums as a leader, including “Naked” and “The Gathering,” showcasing her distinctive sound and innovative compositions. Whitehead’s contributions to the jazz and world music scenes have earned her recognition as a versatile and creative musician.

#14 Mindi Abair

Mindi Abair is an American saxophonist known for her work in contemporary jazz, rock, and pop music. Abair has released several successful solo albums, including “It Just Happens That Way,” “Wild Heart,” and “The EastWest Sessions,” which have topped the Billboard jazz charts. Her energetic and engaging playing style has made her a popular live performer, and she has toured with artists like Aerosmith, Duran Duran, and Josh Groban.

Abair is also known for her work as a radio host and her contributions to the television show “American Idol,” where she served as a saxophonist and music consultant. Her versatility and charismatic stage presence have made her one of the most recognizable saxophonists in contemporary music.

#15 Claire Daly

Claire Daly is an American baritone saxophonist renowned for her contributions to jazz. Known for her deep, resonant tone and expressive playing, Daly has carved a niche for herself in a field often dominated by male musicians. She has released several acclaimed albums, including “Swing Low” and “Baritone Monk,” which showcase her skillful interpretations and innovative arrangements.

Daly’s work spans various styles, from traditional jazz to more contemporary forms, and she is also a dedicated educator. Her contributions to jazz have been recognized with multiple awards, including the Jazz Journalist Association’s Baritone Saxophonist of the Year.

#16 Amy Dickson

Amy Dickson is an Australian classical saxophonist celebrated for her exceptional technique and expressive performances. She began playing the saxophone at the age of six and later studied at the Royal College of Music in London. Dickson has performed with leading orchestras worldwide, including the London Philharmonic Orchestra and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

Her recordings, such as “Smile” and “Dusk & Dawn,” feature a wide repertoire, ranging from classical transcriptions to contemporary works. Dickson’s ability to bring the saxophone into the classical mainstream has earned her critical acclaim and multiple awards, including two Classical Brit Awards.

#17 Sharel Cassity

Sharel Cassity is an American saxophonist known for her work in jazz, particularly in the hard bop and straight-ahead styles. Cassity has performed with many notable artists and ensembles, including the Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Big Band, the Roy Hargrove Big Band, and the Count Basie Orchestra.

She has released several albums as a leader, such as “Just for You” and “Relentless,” which showcase her strong technique and lyrical improvisation. Cassity is also an educator, teaching at various institutions and conducting workshops. Her contributions to jazz are marked by her dedication to both performance and education.

#18 Leena Conquest

Leena Conquest is an American saxophonist and vocalist known for her work in jazz and contemporary music. Conquest has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including William Parker, a prominent figure in avant-garde jazz. She has been featured on several recordings, such as Parker’s “Raining on the Moon” and “For Those Who Are, Still,” where her voice and saxophone play pivotal roles.

Conquest’s performances are noted for their emotional depth and innovative approach to blending jazz with other musical styles. Her work as both a saxophonist and a vocalist demonstrates her versatility and creativity in contemporary music.

#19 Elisa Pruett

Elisa Pruett is an American saxophonist known for her contributions to jazz education and performance. Pruett has performed with various jazz ensembles and big bands, showcasing her skill on both the alto and tenor saxophones. She is also an accomplished arranger and composer, often incorporating elements of traditional and contemporary jazz into her work.

In addition to her performing career, Pruett is a dedicated educator, teaching at several institutions and conducting workshops for young musicians. Her commitment to jazz education and her contributions as a performer have made her a respected figure in the jazz community.

#20 Joanna Pascale

Joanna Pascale is an American jazz vocalist and saxophonist known for her soulful voice and nuanced interpretations of jazz standards. While primarily recognized as a singer, Pascale’s background in saxophone playing has influenced her vocal phrasing and musicality.

She has released several albums, including “Through My Eyes” and “Wildflower,” which feature her interpretations of classic and contemporary jazz songs. Pascale is also an educator, teaching voice and jazz studies at Temple University. Her work bridges the worlds of vocal and instrumental jazz, showcasing her deep understanding of both genres.

#21 Sophie Alour

Sophie Alour is a French saxophonist known for her innovative compositions and dynamic performances in jazz. Alour began her career playing in various ensembles before establishing herself as a leading solo artist. Her albums, such as “Time for Love” and “Uncaged,” highlight her skillful playing and adventurous compositions, blending elements of traditional jazz with contemporary influences.

Alour has been recognized with several awards, including the Django Reinhardt Prize, and she continues to be a prominent figure in the European jazz scene. Her work as a composer and performer has earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is a famous female saxophonist known for her work with Prince?

Candy Dulfer, a Dutch saxophonist, gained fame for her collaborations with Prince, notably featuring on his song “Partyman.” She is also known for her hit single “Lily Was Here.”

 Which female saxophonist won the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition?

Melissa Aldana, a Chilean tenor saxophonist, won the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition in 2013. She is recognized for her technical skill and innovative approach to jazz.

Who is a pioneering female saxophonist known for integrating live electronics in her jazz performances?

Jane Ira Bloom is a pioneering American soprano saxophonist known for incorporating live electronics and interactive computer systems into her jazz performances. Her innovative approach has earned her critical acclaim and multiple awards.

Which female saxophonist is known for her work in both jazz and contemporary pop music, including appearances on “American Idol”?

Mindi Abair is an American saxophonist known for her work in jazz and pop music, as well as her appearances on “American Idol.” She has released several successful albums and toured with artists like Aerosmith and Duran Duran.