Tim Lin is a Taiwanese-American jazz saxophonist, composer, and educator, celebrated for his unique sound anchored in bebop traditions. Born and raised in Fremont, California, Tim's music merges the classic structures of bebop with a progressive, innovative flair. He is widely recognized not only for his captivating performances but also for his contributions to jazz education.
Tim's journey into music began with influential mentoring from Bay Area saxophonist and educator, Dann Zinn. Demonstrating remarkable talent from a young age, he was awarded a scholarship to further hone his skills under the tutelage of Bob Sheppard at the University of Southern California Thornton School of Music. During his time at USC, he was a valued member of the Thornton Jazz Orchestra, which was led by Bob Mintzer, as well as a part of the prestigious USC Honors Combo under Jason Goldman's direction.
Tim Lin's impressive career is marked by numerous accolades and high-profile performances. He was the first runner-up in the International Taichung Saxophone Competition and a finalist in the 2018 Thelonious Monk Institute College Program, now known as the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz. His exquisite talent has provided him the rare opportunity to perform for jazz legends like Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, and Ambrose Akinmusire. In 2019, his musicianship shone bright as he clinched the win in the Jazz Search West competition as part of Charles Chen's group.
Throughout his career, Tim has had the privilege of sharing the stage with numerous jazz stalwarts, enhancing his artistic vision and broadening his musical experiences. His notable collaborations include playing alongside:
Residing in New York City, Tim Lin is a dynamic force in the jazz community. His professional endeavors extend beyond performing; he is a freelance musician, educator, author, and composer. His presence spans major jazz hubs including Boston, San Francisco, and Taiwan, enriching each locale with his musical expertise.
Tim Lin's recorded works showcase his evolving artistry and deep commitment to his craft. His discography includes:
"Romance in Formosa" (Debut Album)
"Empathy" (2023)
"Embraceable You" (Upcoming)
"Birdwatching" (Upcoming)
Tim Lin's musical style is deeply rooted in the bebop jazz tradition, drawing significant inspiration from saxophonist Hank Mobley and his former mentor, Jerry Bergonzi. This foundation allows him to create a sound that is both respectful of the jazz tradition and refreshingly innovative.
A seasoned performer, Tim Lin has graced stages at venues such as Yoshi's, Freight & Salvage, and the San Jose Jazz Festival. He endorses Weissenberg saxophones and releases music under the label Linsanity Music, which is available on multiple platforms, including Bandcamp and Qobuz.
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