Dan White
Photo by Shervin Lainez
Sounds
A true catalyst for creativity, Dan White brings dynamism to his every pursuit. Highly praised and in demand, this multifaceted saxophonist, bandleader, composer, arranger, educator, and all-around collaborative force elevates each scenario he inhabits. Whether pushing boundaries with his own singular projects, reimagining the art of the groove in Huntertones, firing on all cylinders with Cory Wong’s Hornheads, enlivening the cool in Kurt Elling’s Super Blue, or playing to the masses with Lake Street Dive, White always aims high and hits the mark.
Raised in a nurturing environment, surrounded by family invested in music, Dan White grew to embody a confluence of community. And with strong and encouraging mentors in the classroom enhancing his passion for sonic exploration, he quickly developed prodigious saxophone chops, next-level writing skills, and a remarkably discerning ear.
Studying at The Ohio State University, all the pieces came together. He formed the Dan White Sextet, a launchpad for invention with growing momentum, and later moved to Brooklyn with fellow horn heavies Jon Lampley (trumpet/sousaphone) and Chris Ott (trombone), founding and forwarding Huntertones in the process.
Gravitating toward broad-minded peers and atmospheres during his decade in New York, Whitefound a home in the inclusive spaces of the Rockwood Music Hall scene. And putting reed to mouth and/or pen to paper as a leader, sideman, and frequent guest in the house band on Late Night with Stephen Colbert, he made a name for himself by emphasizing the “unity” in community.
Now residing in San Francisco, White continues to spread joy with his own efforts and through continuing work with high-profile collaborators. His latest release, due 11/13/26, “Dee Dub”, with guitarist Charlie Hunter and drummer Scott Amendola, bears his initials both in title and spirit, presenting a personalized mixture of originals and unique interpretations more uncovered than covered.