Carol Chaikin

Despite an initial self-titled release on the Gold Castle label that leaned too far toward commercial appeal, Carol Chaikin has established herself as a skilled alto saxophonist grounded in bop and hard bop. Classical lessons on flute and piano formed her starting point, with bassoon added later in her training. Once improvisation captured her interest, she moved to alto and embraced bebop. After completing studies at the Berklee School of Music, she held the post of regular artist-in-residence at the Aspen Music Festival from 1977 onward for six years. Membership in Maiden Voyage occupied the years 1980-84; she then relocated to New York City, where freelance work has occupied her since. In more recent seasons she has appeared as a featured soloist with Diva.