Harry Allen (musician)


Harry Allen is an American jazz tenor saxophonist born in Washington, D.C. Early on he was recognized in high school as an exceptional talent able to play tunes such as Body and Soul in the style of tenor players Coleman Hawkins, Ben Webster, Flip Phillips, and Sam Donahue. He is a traditionalist in the manner of Scott Hamilton. He is best known for his work with John Colianni, Dori Caymmi, Keith Ingham, John Pizzarelli, and Bucky Pizzarelli.

Early life

Allen's father, Maurice, was a big band drummer. As a child, his father played records for him; these included recordings of tenor saxophonist Paul Gonsalves, which made a lasting impression. Allen was also influenced when in high school by recordings of Scott Hamilton. Allen graduated from Rutgers University in 1988.

Critical acclaim

Allen has been identified as one of the "finest exponents of swing tenor alive today" and described by C. Michael Bailey as "the 'Frank Sinatra' of the tenor saxophone: a master interpreter of standards".

Discography

As leader