Philadelphia’s vibrant music scene wouldn’t be complete without the soulful sounds of the saxophone echoing through weddings, cocktail hours, and upscale soirées. Whether you’re looking for smooth jazz, upbeat R&B, or classic standards, these ten saxophonists bring not only exceptional skill but also a commanding presence that turns any event into a memorable one.
From veteran performers to innovative ensembles, each artist below offers something unique for your next celebration in Philadelphia.
Hiruy Tirfe
Hiruy Tirfe, the distinguished saxophonist and multifaceted artist hailing from the vibrant city of Philadelphia, PA, has recently taken the music world by storm with the release of his debut album, 10,000 Hours. This highly anticipated record has not only captivated audiences in the United States but has also garnered attention and acclaim across Europe and South America, solidifying Tirfe’s status as a global musical force.
In 2024, Tirfe and his ensemble, the Hiruy Tirfe Quartet, were named winners of the prestigious DCJazzPrix International Band Competition—a landmark achievement that further affirmed his position as a rising star in contemporary jazz. The DCJazzPrix is one of the world’s leading competitions for emerging jazz bands, offering a $15,000 grand prize and a yearlong partnership with the DC Jazz Festival, including business development support and a featured performance at the 2025 DC JazzFest.
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Valentin Kovalev
Hailing from Siberia, saxophonist, and content creator Valentin Kovalev is an ebullient and highly eclectic performer whose unique style was developed after studying in Russia, France, and the US.
Visiting professor at the Cleveland Institute of Music, Valentin is an active educator who enjoys teaching masterclasses across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Valentin was recently named a winner and received the Audience Award from the prestigious Concert Artists Guild, a distinguished classical music management organization based in New York City.
🌐 Website | TikTok | Instagram
Andy Snitzer
Andy Snitzer is a renowned saxophonist whose career spans tours with the Rolling Stones, Paul Simon, and Chris Botti, as well as eight acclaimed solo albums. From his breakout solo on the 1988 hit “Waiting For A Star to Fall” to his latest release A Beautiful Dream, Snitzer blends jazz, soul, and global influences into a sound that’s both fresh and timeless.
Chris Oatts
Philadelphia based saxophonist, composer and educator Chris Oatts has been hailed as “a force to be reckoned with,” by All About Jazz. Chris has performed, recorded, or toured with the likes of Seal, Jazz Orchestra of Philadelphia, Chelsea Reed and the Fair Weather Five, The Philly Pops, Terell Stafford, Wycliffe Gordon, the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra and The Temptations.
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Jared Lampshire
I am a multi-instrumentalist who is able to fulfill musical needs that you have for your event in a very wide array of settings and styles. My main musical setting is jazz saxophone. This is the setting where the predominance of my gigs are in. I can play solo jazz music, or play with a group. I also play flute, and often times will include flute in my jazz saxophone gigs as well. If you are looking for classical flute or saxophone music, I can also fulfill those needs. If you are looking for a piano player for your event, I can also fulfill that need. I have been playing piano since I was 8, and I am comfortable playing in a solo or accompanying setting in many diverse styles.
Stephen Sylvia
Dynamic solo saxophonist who plays a unique mix of jazz, pop, funk, & blues along with backing tracks. His mission is to bring music to people around the globe as the traveling sax man.
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Immanuel Wilkins
The 7th Hand is an hour-long, seven-movement suite by saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins that explores the space between presence and nothingness. Blending composed structure with collective improvisation, the album draws on jazz, spiritual traditions, and African diasporic practices to channel music as a higher power. With contributions from his quartet and special guests, Wilkins crafts a profound journey of sound, ritual, and transcendence.
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Stephen Mitnaul
Stephen Mitnaul is a versatile saxophonist based in Philadelphia, blending jazz, gospel, funk, and soul/R&B. Originally from Columbia, SC, he has built a strong network of collaborators and captivates audiences with performances that reflect his unique perspective and passion for connection through music.
🌐 Website | Instagram | Facebook
Chris Farr
Saxophonist Chris Farr graduated from University of the Arts in 1994 with his Bachelors degree in music and then continued on to finish his Masters degree in arts and teaching in 1995. Since then he has been a highly sought after performer, arranger and educator. Chris is currently a full time professor at the University of the Arts, where he serves as the undergraduate instrumental division head. Chris is also a clinician and endorser of Andreas Eastman saxophones. Throughout his career he has performed, toured and recorded with the likes of Blood Sweat & Tears, Elvis Costello, Jill Scott, Sting, John Legend, The Roots, Maynard Ferguson & Big Bop Nouveau, Randy Brecker, Gerald Veasley, Terrell Stafford and the Philadelphia Jazz Orchestra, the Philly Pops, The Pennsylvania Ballet, Rihanna, Eminem, Chaka Kahn, Mariah Carey and many more.
Odean Pope
Odean Pope, a Philadelphia jazz legend, is a saxophonist, composer, arranger, and educator celebrated for his bold, inventive sound. A longtime member of the Max Roach Quartet, he has collaborated with many of the world’s greatest jazz artists and earned acclaim for albums like Locked and Loaded and Odean’s List. In 2017, he was honored with the Mid-Atlantic Living Legacy Award for jazz at The Kennedy Center.
🌐 Website
Final Thoughts
Philadelphia is home to some of the most expressive and versatile saxophonists in the country. Whether you’re seeking smooth jazz for a cocktail hour or a full band for your wedding reception, these musicians bring skill, soul, and showmanship to the stage.
📩 Need help finding the right saxophonist for your event? Reach out anytime at dreamteam@booklive.com — we’re here to help you bring the perfect vibe to your celebration.