Jerome Richardson

Jerome Richardson was a highly respected American jazz musician known for his remarkable versatility as a reed player. Born in 1920 in Oakland, California, Richardson mastered a range of instruments including the saxophone, flute, and clarinet. Over the course of his career, he became a sought-after session musician and performed with jazz luminaries such as Charles Mingus, Lionel Hampton, and Quincy Jones. His playing blended technical finesse with soulful expression, and he was equally comfortable in big band settings and small ensembles.

Richardson led several albums as a bandleader, including the critically acclaimed Roamin’ With Richardson. He was also a founding member of the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra, helping to shape the modern big band sound of the 1960s and ‘70s. Known for his professionalism and adaptability, Jerome Richardson left a lasting impact on the jazz world before his passing in 2000.