jazz saxophonist, composer, and educator
What People Are Saying
“I’d rather listen to [Madsen] than most other players out there right now.”
— Wynton marsalis
“Chris Madsen’s compositions delve into balladry, the blues and a modernism that edges on the abstract—but remains accessible.”
— downbeat magazine
“Madsen displays an uncanny sense of space, lyricism, and melodic direction in his solos. I have marveled many times at his ability to apply this style to diverse group jazz settings from traditional vocalist accompaniment to more contemporary modal tunes.”
— dan healy, artsamerica.org
Currently based in Chicago, IL, Chris Madsen holds degrees in Jazz Studies from DePaul University, the Juilliard School, and the University of Illinois. He is a Vandoren and Conn-Selmer performing artist and member of the Jazz Education Network’s Educational Committee. He coordinates the jazz program at Loyola University Chicago. Having performed and recorded with such names as Paul Simon, Bobby Short, Wynton Marsalis, Jeff Hamilton, Lage Lund, Michael Dease, Ulysses Owens Jr., Marquis Hill, Jon Irabagon, and Makaya McCraven, he is one of the most in-demand and versatile saxophonists on today’s jazz scene.