Thomas Chapin

Thomas Chapin
Thomas Chapin
Born(1957-03-09)9 March 1957
Died13 February 1998(1998-02-13) (aged 40)
EducationHartt College of Music
Alma materRutgers University, Music (BA)
Occupations
  • Musician
  • composer
Spouse
Terri Castillo Chapin
(m. 1997)
Musical career
GenresJazz
Instruments
  • Saxophone
  • Flute
Years activec. 1975–1998
Labels
Formerly of
WebsiteOfficial website

Thomas Chapin (March 9, 1957 – February 13, 1998) was an American composer and saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist. His music spanned the full range of 20th century creative music, from his time as Lionel Hampton's bandleader to modern jazz and his own avant-garde explorations. He helped create the Knitting Factory scene in New York City in the early 80's and was the first artist signed to Knitting Factory Records. [1] Though primarily an alto saxophonist, he also played sopranino, as well as soprano, tenor, baritone saxes and flute. Many of his recordings as a leader were in a trio with bassist Mario Pavone and drummer Michael Sarin. Chapin studied with Jackie McLean, Paul Jeffrey, Kenny Barron, and Lionel Hampton. He died of leukemia at age 40. He played at a benefit concert two weeks before his death.[2]

  1. ^ Levy, Aidan (2019-04-25). "The Brilliant Life & Tragic Death of Thomas Chapin". JazzTimes. ISSN 0272-572X. Retrieved 2023-03-31.
  2. ^ Watrous, Peter (1998-02-15). "Thomas Chapin, 40, Raucous Jazz Musician". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved 2018-12-24.