big band LEAD ALTO listening suggestions

[jpciii]

Besides the obvious (Johnny Hodges, Marshal Royal), what are some good recordings/bands/tunes, etc to listen too? Looking for great lead alto sound and style. Thanks

[colibri]

Phil Woods and the Festival Orchestra

[Dave dix]

I know its not big band but try Louis JORDAN
Dave

[gary]

Phil Woods also with Oliver Nelson, Michelle Legrand and Quincy Jones.
Jerry Dodgion/Jerome Richardson with Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orch.
Benny Carter with, well, Benny Carter
Lennie Niehaus, Bud Shank with Kenton

[TenorX]

Gabe Balthazar with the Kenton Band.

[samba dees]

colibri,
I can't find anything on that album. Would you post more info on it (label, etc)? thanks

[colibri]

samba, try this:
http://www.emusic.com/cd/10588/10588041.html

[Johnny G]

Pre-WW2 Jimmie Lunceford records (led by Willie Smith)

1933-42 Ellington records (led by Toby Hardwick)

1936-37 Goodman records (led by Hymie Schertzer)

All the above are available on the Classics label (France)

[Riff]

Art Pepper with the Buddy Rich Big Band, Mercy, Mercy, Mercy.

[Hornlip]

Charlie Mariano with Mingus, on the LP 'Mingus Mingus Mingus Mingus Mingus".

[grega]

What about Dick Oatts?? I can't think of a current lead alto player I like more.

[cc]

Med Flory - Supersax
Dan Higgins- Big Phatt Band

[Minatar12]

Didn't Dan Higgings play tenor?

Anyways, try Ernie Watts with the Buddy Rich Big Band.
Count Basie's lead alto was a fabulous section player, but I can't remember his name right now.

[Dr G]

Yeah, Dan Higgins! Check him out on Quincy Jones/Sammy Nestico "Basie and Beyond". Even better, order some of the charts for your own band. We've played "Ya Gotta Try... Harder" and "Quintessence". Excellent arrangements.

[Minatar12]

Was he on the album that produced songs like No Time Like the Present? That's a great chart.

[cc]

Yup, Dan Higgins! You've already heard him a million times playing sax, flute and anything else with a reed. Check out his credits on his site.

http://www.danhiggins.net/