Chris Potter

Chris Potter is a leading jazz saxophonist born on 23 January 1971 in Chicago, Illinois, United States. He’s known as a virtuoso of both tenor and soprano saxophone, and has left an indelible mark on the contemporary jazz scene.

Potter began playing saxophone at an early age and showed exceptional talent from the start. Throughout his career he has collaborated with many renowned musicians, including Dave Holland, Pat Metheny, Herbie Hancock and Paul Motian, among others. His musical versatility has allowed him to explore a wide range of styles, from traditional jazz to modern jazz and experimental music.

One of the standout aspects of Chris Potter’s career is his ability to compose and arrange music. He has released numerous albums as leader of his own group and has earned praise from critics and fellow musicians alike for his innovation and originality.

Alongside his work as a saxophonist, Potter is also a respected music educator and has taught at renowned institutions, sharing his knowledge and passion for jazz with younger generations of musicians.

Chris Potter, James Francies and Eric Harland. Three names that carry real weight, as if we were talking about a footballing front three that never stops scoring musical goals of every kind. Potter, one of our favourite saxophonists — ours and almost everyone else’s — returns to the festival with his trio Circuits, who in 2019 released an album, Sunrise Reprise, which, according to the artist himself, was the result of deep reflection sparked by two recent events: the protests linked to the Black Lives Matter movement and the increasingly threatening climate crisis. The result is this trio: powerful, fearless music that aims to be a space for contemplation and reflection, accompanied — of course — by an irresistible groove. PFH: Potter, Francies and Harland. The best front three.
Chris Potter, tenor and soprano saxes, flute
James Francies, keyboards and piano
Eric Harland, drums