Mark Turner is a distinguished American jazz saxophonist, renowned for his sophisticated sound, nuanced approach, and intellectual rigor in the realm of post-bop jazz. Born on November 10, 1965, in Fairborn, Ohio, Turner grew up in Southern California where he developed a deep passion for jazz. He honed his craft at the Berklee College of Music in Boston and emerged in the early 1990s as a powerful voice on the tenor saxophone. With a style that merges the influences of John Coltrane and Warne Marsh, among others, Turner has made a name for himself as a musician's musician, revered for his introspective improvisational style and his complex, yet lyrical compositions.

Over the years, Turner has collaborated with a wide array of jazz heavyweights and has become a mainstay on the New York City jazz scene. His extensive discography as a bandleader and sideman showcases his versatility and artistic depth. Among his most recent releases are "Shades of Rainbow" and "Temporary Kings," both of which are testaments to his enduring creativity and commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz expression. Whether it's through the cerebral contours of "Misterioso" or the introspective musings of "Nocturnes," Turner consistently crafts music that invites listeners into a rich, contemplative space. "Mark Turner Meets Gary Foster," an encounter with another giant of the saxophone, is yet another highlight in his prolific career, underscoring his status as a pivotal figure in the contemporary jazz landscape.