Introduction
Jazz enthusiasts worldwide have long admired the saxophonist extraordinaire, Pat Mallinger, for his musical virtuosity and contributions to the jazz community. Pat has been an active musician for over three decades and has played with leading jazz musicians like Art Blakey, Dizzy Gillespie, and B.B. King. However, there is much more to Pat Mallinger than just his masterful sax playing. Below are ten things you might not know about this jazz giant.
1. Early Life
Born and raised in Chicago, Pat picked up the saxophone at the age of twelve while in junior high school. He grew up in a musical family, and his father, who played the trombone, was his primary influence.
2. Connections with Art Blakey
One of Pat’s most significant career accomplishments was playing with jazz drummer and bandleader Art Blakey. In 1989, Pat joined Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, playing tenor sax for the ensemble for almost ten years.
3. Teaching Experience
While balancing his performances, Pat has made valuable contributions to the jazz community through his teaching. He is currently a faculty member in the Jazz Studies Department at Chicago’s DePaul University.
4. Multiple Recordings
Pat has recorded with many jazz legends, including Joe Lovano, Dizzy Gillespie, Clark Terry, and Michel Legrand. In addition, he has also recorded several albums as a bandleader, including “Pat Mallinger Quartet: Elevate,” which gained a 4-star review from Downbeat Magazine.
5. Work with Dizzy Gillespie
In 1991, Pat was given a chance to play with legendary trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie. Mallinger praised Gillespie’s virtuosity and his openness to diverse collaborations.
6. Performances with BB King
In 2009, Pat teamed up with blues artist B.B. King to create the album “One Kind Favor.” The album was a tribute to “The Blues” and introduced Pat to a broader audience outside of jazz.
7. Relocation to New York City
In the early ’90s, Pat relocated to New York City to broaden his horizons and compete with some of the most exceptional jazz musicians in the world. During this time, he played with blues icon Bobby ‘Blue’ Bland and other notable musicians.
8. Influence on Young Musicians
Pat Mallinger’s influence extends beyond his performances and teaching. He has been an inspiration to many aspiring young jazz musicians and has mentored numerous students, many of whom have gone on to acclaimed careers.
Conclusion
Pat Mallinger is a jazz master who has contributed immensely to the world of jazz through his performances, recordings, collaborations, teaching, and mentorship of young musicians. And although these ten facts provide a glimpse into Pat’s life and career, they don’t do justice to his passion for jazz and his substantial contributions to the genre.
FAQs
1. Where was Pat Mallinger born?
Pat Mallinger was born and raised in Chicago.
2. Who are some of the jazz legends Pat has recorded with?
Pat Mallinger has recorded with Dizzy Gillespie, Michel Legrand, Clark Terry, and Joe Lovano, among others.
3. Who were some of Pat’s biggest influences growing up?
Pat’s father, who played the trombone, was his most significant musical influence growing up.
4. When did Pat join Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers?
Pat joined Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers in 1989 and played tenor sax for the ensemble for almost ten years.
5. What does Pat Mallinger teach?
Pat Mallinger is a faculty member in the Jazz Studies Department at Chicago’s DePaul University and teaches saxophone.