Ned Rothenberg

Ned Rothenberg is a trailblazing multi-instrumentalist and composer known for his work in avant-garde jazz, contemporary classical music, and improvisation. He’s especially renowned for his mastery of woodwind instruments, including the alto saxophone, bass clarinet, and the Japanese shakuhachi flute. Active since the late 1970s, Rothenberg has carved out a unique space in the experimental music world, blending intense technical skill with deeply expressive and exploratory sounds.

Over the years, he’s collaborated with a diverse range of artists from around the globe, including Ikue Mori, Evan Parker, and Sainkho Namtchylak, and he's also a frequent performer in solo and ensemble settings. Whether composing chamber works or pushing the boundaries of live improvisation, Ned Rothenberg continues to be a dynamic force in genre-defying music. His wide-ranging discography, including albums like World of Odd Harmonics and Crossings Four, showcases a restless creativity and a deep commitment to sonic innovation.

Genres

Free Jazz

Avant-garde

Folk

Jazz

Contemporary Classical

Avant-garde Jazz

Post-classical

Related Artists

John Zorn

Marc Ribot

Evan Parker

Anthony Braxton

Fred Frith

Tim Berne

Peter Brötzmann

Ken Vandermark

Mats Gustafsson

Elliott Sharp

Sylvie Courvoisier

George Lewis

Latest Release

Looms & Legends

Ned Rothenberg

Album - 13 Tracks - Released September 5, 2025