Gigi Gryce

Gigi Gryce (1925-1983) was an American saxophonist, flutist, clarinetist, composer, arranger, and educator. His performing career, though notable, was very short and, in comparison to other musicians of his generation, Gryce's work is little known.

Although primarily a jazz musician, Gryce studied composition with Alan Hovhaness and Daniel Pinkham at the Boston Conservatory following World War II and while there composed a number of symphonic compositions. During the 1950s he achieved some renown for his innovative bebop playing, his primary instrument being the alto saxophone. Among the musicians with whom Gryce performed were Thelonious Monk, Tadd Dameron, Lionel Hampton, Clifford Brown, Art Farmer, and Donald Byrd.