Claire Daly, a renowned baritone saxophonist, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 66. Daly was celebrated for her exceptional playing and her deep commitment to the jazz community. Her life in music, as she once said, was "the smartest thing I've done."

Honoring a Trailblazing Jazz Virtuoso

A Standard-Bearer on the Baritone Saxophone

Daly's virtuosity on the baritone saxophone was widely recognized by her fellow musicians and critics alike. Her flexibility and expressive precision as a soloist earned her numerous accolades, including frequent wins in critics' polls from the Jazz Journalists Association and DownBeat magazine. In a heartfelt Facebook post, Daly expressed her gratitude for the recognition, writing, "Kudos to all the baritone players — we get to play bari! We are the lucky ones. My life in music is the smartest thing I've done."Daly's mastery of the baritone saxophone was not only a testament to her technical prowess but also a reflection of her deep passion for the instrument. The baritone saxophone, often considered an unwieldy and challenging instrument, was Daly's chosen medium, and she embraced its unique qualities with a fervor that inspired both her peers and her audiences.

A Trailblazer in the Jazz Community

Daly's impact on the jazz community extended far beyond her exceptional playing. In the early years of her career, she was a fixture in all-female ensembles, blending her jazz expertise with a rock-infused sensibility. Her sturdy playing formed the foundation of the original Diva Jazz Orchestra, which, from its inception in 1992, established itself as one of the most formidable big bands in jazz, regardless of gender.After seven years with Diva, Daly shifted her focus towards smaller ensembles, collaborating frequently with pianist Joel Forrester in the quartet People Like Us, experimental pop vocalist Nora York, and saxophonist Dave Sewelson in the bottom-heavy trio Two Sisters Inc. These diverse musical partnerships showcased Daly's versatility and her willingness to explore new creative avenues.

A Beloved Mentor and Collaborator

Beyond her own impressive musical accomplishments, Daly was renowned for her generosity and her commitment to nurturing the next generation of jazz musicians. She was a beloved mentor, sharing her expertise and insights with aspiring artists, and her collaborative spirit inspired countless musicians to push the boundaries of their own creativity.Saxophonist Dave Sewelson, a longtime friend and collaborator of Daly's, spoke fondly of her impact on the jazz community. "Claire was a true trailblazer, not only for her exceptional playing but also for her unwavering dedication to the art form," Sewelson said. "She was a mentor, a collaborator, and a dear friend to so many of us in the jazz world. Her legacy will continue to inspire and shape the future of this music."

A Life Dedicated to the Pursuit of Musical Excellence

Daly's passing marks the end of an era, but her influence will undoubtedly continue to reverberate through the jazz community for years to come. Her life in music, as she so eloquently expressed, was indeed "the smartest thing" she had ever done, and her legacy as a virtuoso, trailblazer, and mentor will forever be etched in the hearts and minds of those who were fortunate enough to witness her artistry.