Phil Nimmons

Phil Nimmons, affectionately known as the “Dean of Canadian jazz,” is a clarinetist, composer, and bandleader who’s been a cornerstone of Canada’s jazz scene since the 1950s. Born in 1923, Nimmons co-founded the groundbreaking ensemble *Nimmons ’N’ Nine* (later expanded to *Nimmons ’N’ Nine Plus Six*), blending inventive arrangements with a distinctly Canadian flavor. His compositions, like those featured on *Canadian Composers Portraits* and *The Canadian Scene Via The Phil Nimmons Group*, showcase his knack for weaving improvisation and structure into vibrant, genre-defying works. A Juno Award winner and Officer of the Order of Canada, Nimmons also shaped generations of musicians through his dedication to jazz education. Whether leading his group on albums like *Friendly Encounter* or mentoring artists, his legacy as a creative force and community builder remains unmatched.

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