For me, Michael Brecker was the epitome of every musical value I embrace and have spent my life as a musician working to cultivate. He played with an amazing and unique sound that was consistent throughout the entire range of the saxophone. His technique was flawless. He constantly evolved and pushed the limits of his abilities. And he played with absolute unbridled passion.

The first time I heard Michael Brecker I was in 9th grade or so. A friend turned me on to the new Brecker Brothers album. I remember being simply blown away by the sound that he played with. And he didn’t play the saxophone like a saxophone. I mean, he was doing some very saxophonistic things, but he was completely beyond the instrument itself. When I listened to Brecker, I heard more than just the saxophone playing. There was something in there, which was a feeling I’d had with only a couple of other musicians—John Coltrane and Bill Evans (the pianist). And sometimes it sounded like he was playing the saxophone like an electric guitar, and that was way cool. I got way into Brecker and discovered that he played with pretty much everybody in every style imaginable, from folkies to pop groups. And he sounded absolutely amazing and convincing in whatever context he played.

About 6 months ago, I wrote about Michael Brecker’s condition, understanding the seriousness of it, but not fully comprehending the rapidity with which it consumed him. So like many, I was stunned by the news that he had passed away. I feel fortunate that I had the opportunity to see him perform live several times. Michael Brecker was a true innovator and a consumate musician. He will be missed.