Role

:

Composer  

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

October 16, 1954 in Syracuse, NY

Genre

:

Film

 

Tim Berne is a renowned American saxophonist and composer who has made significant contributions to the world of contemporary jazz and avant-garde music. Born on October 16, 1954, in Syracuse, New York, Berne grew up in a musical family and started playing the saxophone at the age of 12. He was initially influenced by the music of John Coltrane, Ornette Coleman, and Eric Dolphy, but later developed his own unique style that blended elements of free jazz, rock, and classical music. Berne attended the University of Oregon, where he studied composition and played in various jazz ensembles. After graduating, he moved to New York City in 1977 and quickly became involved in the city's vibrant jazz scene. He played with a number of notable musicians, including guitarist Bill Frisell, drummer Paul Motian, and saxophonist Julius Hemphill, and formed his own groups, including the Tim Berne Sextet and the Bloodcount. Berne's music is characterized by complex rhythms, unconventional harmonies, and intricate melodies. He often uses extended techniques on the saxophone, such as multiphonics and overblowing, to create a wide range of sounds and textures. His compositions are highly structured, but also allow for improvisation and spontaneity. One of Berne's most notable works is the album "Fractured Fairy Tales," which was released in 1989 by the JMT label. The album features Berne's sextet, which includes Frisell on guitar, Hank Roberts on cello, and Joey Baron on drums. The music on the album is highly complex and challenging, with intricate rhythms and harmonies that push the boundaries of traditional jazz. The album received critical acclaim and helped establish Berne as a leading figure in the avant-garde jazz scene. Berne's next major project was the Bloodcount, a quartet that he formed in 1995 with drummer Jim Black, bassist Michael Formanek, and pianist Chris Speed. The group's music was even more experimental than Berne's previous work, with complex polyrhythms and dissonant harmonies. The Bloodcount released four albums between 1997 and 2000, including "Unwound" and "Saturation Point," which received widespread critical acclaim. In addition to his work as a composer and bandleader, Berne has also collaborated with a number of other musicians and artists. He has played on albums by guitarist Nels Cline, pianist Craig Taborn, and drummer Ches Smith, among others. He has also composed music for dance and theater productions, including works by choreographer Bill T. Jones and playwright David Mamet. Berne continues to be an active and influential figure in the world of contemporary jazz. He has received numerous awards and honors for his work, including a Guggenheim Fellowship in 2012. He has also been a mentor to many younger musicians, including saxophonist Anna Webber and drummer Tomas Fujiwara, who have both cited Berne as a major influence on their own work. Overall, Tim Berne's contributions to the world of jazz and avant-garde music have been significant and far-reaching. His innovative compositions and unique saxophone playing have helped push the boundaries of what is possible in jazz, and his influence can be heard in the work of many younger musicians today.

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