Jazziz magazine describes Nelson Rangell as “an artist of depth and a master of song” and “an improviser no pareil.” The Times of London lauds Nelson’s “extraordinary ability on a variety of instruments and unquestionable virtuosity.” They also note that Nelson is “one of the most skilled exponents of fusion.” Saxophone Journal says Rangell commands the alto-saxophone “with such authority it cannot be denied that Rangell’s true artistship” and Flute Talk Magazine writes that Nelson “creates the impression that everything is possible when he performs improvisations.” This praise confirms what jazz fans in Denver have known since the late 80s when Rangell was first discovered: Rangell is an exciting and varied performer in jazz, equally skilled at alto, soprano and tenor saxophones, as well as being a true virtuoso on flutes and piccolo. Rangell is the fourth of four children in a musical family. Andrew is Andrew’s brother and a well-known concert pianist in Boston. Bobby is a French woodwind player who is an important part of European jazz and studio scenes. Paula, his sister, is a professional singer based in New Orleans. Rangell began playing flute when he was 15. Rangell began playing the flute at age 15. Within six months, he was studying jazz and classical music at The Interlochen Arts Academy. This camp is for gifted musicians. He then went on to The New England Conservatory of Music, Boston. He was a student and twice won Down Beat Magazine’s prestigious National Student Recording Awards competition for best jazz and best pop/rock instrumental soloist. He moved to New York to pursue his career in 1984 after graduating from college. He spent the next four years “paying his dues”, playing in, alongside, and gigging alongside some of the most prominent contemporary jazz musicians, including Hiram Bullock and Jorge Dalto, Eric Gale and Richard Tee. He was also employed by Gil Evans Monday Night Orchestra on occasion and recorded many commercial jingle sessions. Rangell’s 1987 debut album, Gaia/Gramavision Records was released. Soon after, he was signed to GRP Records by Larry Rosen and Dave Grusin. He recorded eight albums at GRP, starting in 1989. Through all of these projects, his stated goal was to “develop and evolve as an artist and player while making music that people can relate to in a format that is substantive.” He was well-equipped to fulfil this dream with his musical arsenal that includes flute, piccolo and alto saxophones, as well as whistling. He recorded with The Rippingtons and Chuck Loeb as well as Tom Browne and The GRP All Star Big Band. His music is also featured on Don Grusin’s Grammy-nominated CD “The Hang”. Rangell recorded mostly in smooth jazz and contemporary/pop formats, which garnered top radio play and large audiences. However, The Times of London noted that Rangell “heard live a stronger and more idiosyncratic musician emerge.” Nelson has now released 15 CDs nationally and internationally from www.nelsonrangell.com
