Ken Peplowski

Ken Peplowski is a virtuoso clarinetist and tenor saxophonist who’s spent decades keeping the spirit of swing and bebop alive with warmth and wit. Known for his lush tone and improvisational flair, this Ohio-born musician cut his teeth playing in big bands, including a memorable stint with Benny Goodman’s orchestra in the 1980s. Since then, he’s become a beloved figure in the jazz world, effortlessly bridging classic and contemporary styles. Whether leading his own groups—like the vibrant Ken Peplowski Big Band on *Sunrise*—or paying homage to legends (check out his Benny Goodman tribute albums), he infuses every note with infectious joy.

Peplowski’s prolific output includes intimate club recordings (*At Mezzrow*, *At the Watermill*) and collaborations that highlight his lyrical phrasing, like the bossa-nova-flavored *Amizade* or the introspective *unheard bird*. A sought-after live performer, he balances reverence for jazz traditions with a playful, modern edge, making him a fixture at festivals and venues worldwide. With recent releases like *Enrapture* and *Counterpoint*, he proves that swing isn’t just a genre—it’s a state of mind.

Genres

Swing Music

Big Band

Jazz

Brazilian Jazz

Latest Release

At Mezzrow

Ken Peplowski

Album - 10 Tracks - Released July 5, 2024