Hometown: Leavenworth, KS
Label: BurnettPublishing.com, 4-Jazz Music, The Orchard, MP3.com, Artists Recording Collective, Artists Recording Collective
Management: 4-Jazz Music
Website: ChrisBurnettQUARTET.com
Sounds Like: Wayne Shorter, Steve Coleman, Greg Osby, Benny Maupin, Christopher Burnett
Genre: Jazz
How are jazz careers made?
Many have remarked on the big historical shift: musicians used to apprentice on the road with masters and learn the language firsthand, but those cultural conditions are fading, and the bandstand has been replaced by the graduate degree. There’s truth in that narrative, and yet it fails to account for the full variety of paths that players are taking as they strive to find their voice in this music. For alto saxophonist Christopher Burnett, the journey involved spending 22 years as a musician in the U.S. Army.
“This is top quality jazz …highly recommended for both traditional and modern jazz fans.”
Jon Neudorf - Sea of Tranquility
“On This New Jazz Record, Kansas City And Italy Make Beautiful Music Together – It’s an exceptionally graceful album (Echoes of Europe) that imbues mainstream jazz with the elegant sheen of classical chamber music.”
Bill Brownlee (The Kansas City Star, Ink Magazine) - KCUR 89.3FM (Kansas City)
“This record (Echoes of Europe) was immediately attractive on first listen, and subsequent plays have not dimmed my enthusiasm.”
Roger Atkinson - Jazz Ambassador Magazine
“If you are into Jazz... and in particular, if you like KC originated Jazz, you really need to explore the brilliant works of Chris Burnett and his Quartet around town. Like most gems around here, if you don't know where to dig, you can miss it. From the Drum Room, to the Blue Room, to more... you can catch him in a variety of venues about the town. This is as classy as it comes ladies and gentlemen... and you should be proud that it is home grown! -Wiz”
Michael Wizniak - KC Bohemians
“We are truly fortunate to contract with a teacher of Chris' caliber. He is an amazing combination of musical talent and patient mentorship that draws the best from his students. Chris is also a crucial strategic partner for the Tune Shop, generously providing access to other talented professional musicians across the metro Kansas City area. Chris defines "class act" and I would recommend his professional services anytime.”
Abi Ahrens, Vice President and Co-Owner - The Tune Shop, Inc.
“I was impressed firstly with his musical abilities, and secondly with his ability to connect with other artists and the community; and also his ability to promote not only his own music, but the music of other artists.”
Ernie Mansfield - Director, Mansfield Music
“This is unique, because often you can find artists who promote themselves exclusively; but Chris has always been generous in his support of others, and of new jazz musicians in particular.”
Ernie Mansfield - Director, Mansfield Music
“Simply put Chris is one of the most positive and ethical people I have had the pleasure to be associated with, he is also one of the hardest working,and organized people.”
Sumi Tonooka - Sutoba Music (SESAC)
“And to top it off, he is a talented musician and composer, funny , genuine and humble. Chris cares about people and understands the need to serve.”
Sumi Tonooka - Sutoba Music (SESAC)
“We've been working with Chris for half year, and it has been positive, continuous and valuable. We are looking forward to expand our relationship.”
Gene Perla - PM Records, Inc.
“Chris Burnett is an outstanding musician with a top-notch business mindset through his work with ARC.”
Andrew Zender - Director of Communications, American Jazz Museum
“In today's entertainment industry where musicians and artists must consistently stay current with trends in technology, marketing and distribution tactics, Chris displays a thorough understanding of these developments.”
Andrew Zender - Director of Communications, American Jazz Museum
“His extensive work with ARC illustrates his knowledge, passion and clear vision for how artists, particularly in the genre of jazz, can collaborate through myriad opportunities and platforms to elevate their collective potential for success.”
Andrew Zender - Director of Communications, American Jazz Museum
"One of the most promising emergent jazz musicians in town isn’t some kid straight out of school or still in school..."
Joe Klopus - Kansas City Star
"Chris' tone is always controlled, and he has a way of embellishing the melody as he moves into his solo which is especially appealing."
Roger Atkinson - Jazz Ambassador Magazine
"For more than 30 years, Chris Burnett has worked to develop his own language, his own sound. A musician's sound can't be borrowed or stolen, but rather expanded and created anew."
Liz Beggs - Miami Republic, KC Community News
"The music you play sounds so beautiful- you should be on every stage worldwide. KEEP ON."
Tim Price, New York - Selmer Artist/Clinician
"... exotically beautiful music that contemporary jazz lovers will devour!"
Vivendi Universal
“... His saxophones wail with emotion and his fingers give each presentation a thorough going-over, however, that allows Burnett to express accurately and fully the musical dreams that he’s harbored for years.”
Cadence Magazine
"Chris Burnett gives the modern soprano sax some jazz authority..."
All About Jazz
"I have had Chris Burnett out to work with my jazz band several times, and it is always refreshing to get his perspective and expertise. He has a love for jazz and music that is evident in the way he presents and plays. My students learn a ton every time he visits us, and to be honest, so do I!"
Luke Johnson, Director of Bands - Lansing High School
"Chris, Wow! You did a terrific job and the directors were appreciative of your comments and work with their students. I'm certain you'll receive some calls for clinics and masterclasses."
Clarence Smith, Director - MCC-Penn Valley 18th and Vine Jazz Festival
“Time Flies CD - featuring Chris Burnett (saxes), Jeff Stewart (piano), Elliot Kuykendall (basses), Bob Habib (LP), and Ken Baldwin (drums)”
Artists Recording Collective