Lenny Pickett

Lenny Pickett, an NYU Jazz saxophone faculty luminary, commands attention as Musical Director of the Saturday Night Live band, a post he ascended to in 1995 after joining as tenor sax soloist in 1985. Renowned for leading Tower of Power's horn section during the '70s, they graced records and backed icons from Elton John to R&B stars. Pickett's musical prowess shines through his solo releases, collaborations, and arrangements for luminaries like David Bowie, Talking Heads, and Laurie Anderson. His album "Lenny Pickett with the Borneo Horns" garnered accolades for its innovative use of acoustic instruments, as hailed by Downbeat magazine. Notably, he's a Bessie Award laureate.