Originally hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Lenard Simpson鈥檚 well-earned reputation
as 鈥渜uickly becoming one of the most important saxophonists of this generation鈥� (Kiefer)
has secured him a spot as a rising star among his contemporaries. From his early days
in
Milwaukee as a self-taught beginner, to formal studies at Northern Illinois University
(B.M., jazz performance) and UCLA鈥檚 Herbie Hancock Institute (M.M., music performance
jazz), Simpson鈥檚 natural ability and outstanding musicianship have been recognized
by some of the most celebrated jazz musicians and pedagogues across the world, including
Herbie Handcock, Christian McBride, Wayne Shorter, and many more. An active, in-demand
performer, composer, arranger, and educator, Simpson 鈥渋s trusted and called upon by
some of the highest-level musicians anywhere鈥� (Kendall Moore) due to his strong collaborative
musicianship, unique sound marked by 鈥減rofound soulfulness combined with a sparkling
intelligence and curiosity鈥� (Billy Childs), and compassionate and individualized approach
to teaching.
As a band Leader, Simpson鈥檚 quartet has played at the major jazz festivals in the midwest and recently released an album entitled New Beginnings. Simpson鈥檚 work as an in-demand sideman has included performances both local and abroad with Billy Childs, Kurt Elling, Marquis Hill, Kiefer, Knower, Sara Gazarek, Clayton Cameron and Brian Lynch. As an Educator, Simpson teaches at the Milwaukee Institute of Jazz, he served as an adjunct saxophone professor at Northern Illinois University, and has taught masterclasses for international Jazz Day in Melbourne, Australia, at the Sitka Jazz Festival. Additionally, Simpson has taught at the Birch Creek Jazz camp, Northern Illinois Jazz camp, and the UCLA Global Jazz camp.