James Carter (musician) facts for kids
James Carter (born January 3, 1969) is an American jazz musician. He is known for his amazing skill on many instruments. These include saxophones and other woodwinds. He is also the cousin of famous jazz violinist Regina Carter.
Quick facts for kids
James Carter
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James Carter, Bad Ischl 2006
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| Background information | |
| Born | January 3, 1969 |
| Origin | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Genres | Jazz |
| Occupation(s) | Musician |
| Instruments | Bass clarinet Saxophones Flutes |
| Labels | DIW Atlantic Columbia Half Note |
| Associated acts | Bird-Trane-Sco-Now! |
Contents
Early Life and Musical Start
James Carter was born in Detroit, Michigan. He learned music from Donald Washington. James joined Washington's youth jazz group, Bird-Trane-Sco-NOW!!
Youngest Teacher at Camp
As a young man, Carter went to Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. He later became the youngest teacher there. In 1985, when he was 16, he toured Scandinavia. He played with the International Jazz Band.
Moving to New York City
On May 31, 1988, James Carter played at the Detroit Institute of Arts. He was a last-minute addition for guest artist Lester Bowie. This led to an invitation to play with Bowie's new band in New York City. This happened in November at the Carlos 1 jazz club. This was a very important moment for Carter's career. He moved to New York two years later. Since the late 1980s, he has been a well-known jazz performer. He plays saxophones, flute, and clarinets.
Carter's Music Style
James Carter loves all parts of jazz history. He plays everything from dixieland to fusion and free jazz. He was one of the few musicians of his time to do this. He has worked on many projects in these different styles. He also uses these influences in his own songs and solos.
Playing in Movies
In 1996, James Carter was in the movie Kansas City. He played the role of Ben Webster. Other jazz musicians played roles of famous players from the 1930s. These included Joshua Redman as Lester Young and Geri Allen as Mary Lou Williams. The movie had real-time jam sessions.
Awards and Collaborations
Carter has won the DownBeat magazine's Critics and Readers Choice award. He won it for baritone saxophone many years in a row. He has played with many famous musicians. Some of these include Lester Bowie, Wynton Marsalis, and Dee Dee Bridgewater. He also played with the World Saxophone Quartet.
Collecting Vintage Instruments
James Carter knows a lot about old saxophones. He has a large collection of these instruments. One of them was once played by Don Byas.
Main Albums
James Carter has released many albums. Here are some of his main ones:
- 1991: Alone Together (with Tough Young Tenors)
- 1994: JC on the Set
- 1995: Jurassic Classics
- 1995: The Real Quiet Storm
- 1996: Conversin' with the Elders
- 1998: In Carterian Fashion
- 2000: Chasin' the Gypsy (with his cousin Regina Carter)
- 2000: Layin' in the Cut
- 2003: Gardenias for Lady Day
- 2004: Live at Baker's Keyboard Lounge
- 2005: Out of Nowhere
- 2005: Gold Sounds
- 2008: Present Tense
- 2009: Heaven on Earth
- 2011: Caribbean Rhapsody
- 2011: At the Crossroads
- 2019: Live From Newport Jazz
- 2023: Un
See also
In Spanish: James Carter (músico de jazz) para niños
