Chris Madsen

Description

Dr. Christopher Madsen’s credits as a saxophonist include performances and recordings with Paul Simon, Wynton Marsalis, Jeff Hamilton, Makaya McCraven, Michael Dease, Ulysses Owens, Ben Williams, Marquis Hill, Jon Irabagon, and countless others. He is a published composer with Kendor Music, Inc., the UNC Jazz Press, and Walrus Music. From 2008 to 2014, he served as Jazz Studies Coordinator for Northwestern University and is currently Jazz Studies faculty at the University of Illinois at Chicago and the University of Wisconsin at Parkside. A graduate of the Juilliard, DePaul University, and University of Illinois music schools, Madsen is also a Vandoren and Conn-Selmer artist and member of the College Music Society, NAfME, National Educator’s Association, and JEN. He has presented clinics, conducted ensembles, and performed around the U.S. and the world. He is one of the most in-demand and versatile saxophonists in Chicago, maintaining an active performance schedule and private studio. For more information, visit www.chrismadsen.net

Work Sample

"Crystal Liturgy" July 2021 7:18 This is an original piece for jazz quartet which is loosely based on "Liturgie de Cristal" by Olivier Messaien.

Alternate Jazz History #14, October 2020 1:20 This is the fourteenth part of a series where I interpret unlikely jazz "mashups"

"Bonfire", 9/2017, 10:26. This is an original piece of mine and the title track for my quartet's 2019 release of all original music.

Both originals I submitted represent a progressive approach to composition, weaving improvisation into the fabric of the work and questioning traditional ideas of melody and form. The "Alternate Jazz History" project showcases my love of jazz's past and my commitment to the study of improvisational styles therein.

History

Since 2004, I have been a professional jazz saxophonist, composer, and pedagogue, first based in New York City and then in Chicago since 2006. I have led my own groups at Chicago venues such as the Jazz Showcase, Chicago Jazz Festival, the Green Mill, and Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola in New York.

Artistic Vision

My work aims to unite the rich tapestry of jazz's past with a forward-thinking approach to composition in the idiom.

Programs for Specific Audience(s) Expertise

I have presented concerts for audiences of all ages and demographics, but have experience working with music students as young as kindergarten. I have presented music for middle school general audiences (students with no musical training) as well. I believe that, with younger and less experienced audiences, there are ways to make even advanced material accessible if the listener is appropriately guided through the work.

Traditional Folk/Ethnic Artform Statement

In a way, all jazz music is traditionally an elegant combination of fine and folk art. My approach to performing jazz aims to celebrate the impressive history of the music and place it within the continuum of Black American art.