Claire Michael

Origin

France

Years active

2000s–present

Genres

jazz, bossa nova, instrumental

Instruments

saxophone, flute, vocals, piano, bass, drums

Biography

Claire Michael is a French multi-instrumentalist composer and performer, known for her distinctive style rooted in jazz influences.

Her career, which began in the early 2000s, has seen her release numerous albums and tour extensively across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. She has performed in renowned jazz clubs and festivals, including notable tours in Brazil, where she was recognized as "Revelation of the Year." Michael's musical approach is deeply influenced by jazz legends such as John Coltrane, Wayne Shorter, and Pharoah Sanders, with her work often featuring tributes to Coltrane, such as her album "Trane Steps."

Michael is proficient on tenor, alto, and soprano saxophones, as well as flute and vocals. She has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including Didier Lockwood, Dave Liebman, and Brazilian trombonist Raul de Souza. Her music is characterized by its blend of original compositions and reinterpretations of standards, showcasing a sophisticated mix of groove, creativity, technical virtuosity, and improvisation. Her Franco-Brazilian-American group, featuring musicians like Zaza Desiderio, further highlights her connection to the Brazilian music scene.