Igor Butman is a renowned Russian jazz saxophonist, bandleader, and composer. Born in Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg) in 1961, he began playing the clarinet at age 12 before switching to the saxophone. Butman studied at the Leningrad Conservatory and later at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. He has performed with jazz legends such as Wynton Marsalis, Chick Corea, and Herbie Hancock. Butman is known for his virtuosic playing, soulful melodies, and energetic live performances. He leads the Igor Butman Big Band and has released numerous albums, including "Only Now," "Winter Fairytale," and "Golden Sunray."