Jazz alto saxophonist Phil Woods dies at 83

Jazz alto saxophonist Phil Woods dies at 83

NEW YORK

Phil Woods, a leading alto saxophonist in mainstream jazz for more than 60 years whose piercing solos could also be heard on hit records by Billy Joel and Paul Simon, has died. He was 83.

Woods died Tuesday in Stroudsburg, Pa., said Philip Bensing, owner of the Bensing-Thomas Funeral Home.

Woods gave his last concert Sept. 4 in Pittsburgh, using oxygen to complete a performance of the classic album “Charlie Parker With Strings” with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported. That night he announced he had emphysema and was retiring.

Woods grew up in the Swing Era where his early influences included alto saxophonists Benny Carter and Johnny Hodges. He made his name as a fiery disciple of bebop pioneer Charlie “Bird” Parker. He was married to Parker’s widow, Chan, for 17 years.

Woods released more than 50 albums as a leader and many more as a sideman with such jazz luminaries as Dizzy Gillespie and Thelonious Monk. He won four Grammys.

Associated Press