Frank Wess, born on January 4, 1922, in Kansas City, Missouri, was an illustrious American jazz saxophonist and flautist. He was a pioneering figure in the use of the flute in jazz and earned the nickname "Magic" for his mastery of the instrument. After serving in the military during World War II, Wess's career took a significant turn when he joined the Billy Eckstine band, which laid the foundation for his future achievements in modern jazz.

Wess's most celebrated tenure was with the Count Basie Orchestra in the 1950s and 1960s, where he was featured both on tenor saxophone and flute, becoming one of the first to bring the latter into common use in a big band setting. His legacy includes a prolific recording career, both as a leader and sideman, and his collaborations have included performances with esteemed artists such as Kenny Burrell, Toshiko Akiyoshi, and others. Notable late career highlights include his 2000s "Hank and Frank" sessions with tenor saxophonist Hank Jones, which attest to Wess's enduring vitality in the jazz scene. With a career that spanned over half a century, Frank Wess's skillful blending of hard bop and swing has left an indelible mark on the world of jazz, a fact reflected in his sophisticated discography right up to releases like "The Flute Mastery of Frank Wess," which showcases his unparalleled command of his primary instrument. Wess passed away on October 30, 2013, but his contributions to jazz continue to resonate through his recordings and the many musicians he influenced.

Genres

Jazz Flute

Latest Release

Hank and Frank

Frank Wess•

Hank Jones

Album - 9 Tracks - Released May 1, 2023