Background
The music of tenor saxophonist Rob Dixon is both respectful of tradition and free with expression and truly shows the musical diversity that is within Rob’s creativity. After matriculating from Hampton University and Indiana University’s School of Music, Rob moved to the top of the jazz scene in New York City working with legendary and popular artists such as the Count Basie Band, The Ellington Band, Slide Hampton, Dakota Stanton, The Illinois Jacquet Big Band, Rufus Reid, Akira Tana, Jonah Jones as well as Bill Lee (composer and father of Spike Lee), Weldon Irving, Producer Ali Shaheed Muhammad (DJ of Tribe called Quest) and The Skatalites. Returning to Indianapolis in 2003, Dixon has continued to work with internationally renowned artists such as pianist Steve Allee, drummer Steve Houghton, The Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks orchestra, drummer Mike Clark, the headhunters, Guitarist Dave Stryker and 7 string guitar virtuoso Charlie Hunter.
In 2018 Dixon recorded an album as a leader that was produced by 7 string guitarist Charlie Hunter. The album features Charlie Hunter on guitar and Mike Clark on Drums with Ernest Stuart on Trombone guesting on four songs. The album is titled “Coast to Crossroads”.
In August 2018 Mike Clark’s Indigo Blue band (featuring bassist Christian McBride, alto saxophonist Donald Harrison, trumpeter Randy Brecker, pianist Antonio Farao and Rob Dixon) released a live album recorded at the Iridium jazz club in NYC in 2013. The album features three original compositions penned by Dixon.
In 2005 Rob Dixon founded Triology, which has included bassist Brandon Meeks, keyboardist Steven Jones, and drummer Richard “Sleepy” Floyd. Additionally in 2012, Dixon founded the Indianapolis Jazz Collective, an ensemble that has recorded an album titled “Jazz on Canvas” and includes pianist Steve Allee, bassist Nick Tucker, Trumpeter Marlin McKay, and drummer Kenny Phelps. The Indianapolis Jazz Collective has featured guest artists such as vibraphonist Stefon Harris, Alto Saxophonist Bobby Watson and Trumpeter Randy Brecker.
Rob Dixon is an adjunct professor at IUPUI and is the artistic director for Indy Jazz Fest. He mentors the Jazz Futures, an Indianapolis Jazz foundation sponsored ensemble comprised of talented high school students. Dixon also continues to perform and tour frequently in the United States and abroad.