Cincinnati, Ohio
Possibly a Bueschers (Wurlitzer stencil)

Metal, gold plated
ca. 1900s
Length: 18 inches
Wind Instruments – Woodwind Instruments – Single Reed – Saxophone

Gold plated engraved: The Wurlitzer American   Made by Rudolph Wurlitzer Co. CINCINNATI   CHICAGO on the bell – Back of bell engraved:  low pitch  33054

While Oliver Lake’s extraordinary talents as composer, saxophonist, flutist and band leader has made him world-renown, his multi-discipline talents also reveal him as an accomplished poet and painter.  Born in Marianna, Arkansas, Oliver moved to St. Louis, Missouri at the age of two, where at the age of 17, he began to take serious interest in jazz.  While in St. Louis, he co-founded the Black Artist Group (BAG) with poets Ajule and Malinke, and musicians Julius Hemphill and Floyd LaFlora. In the mid 70’s he moved to New York and began establishing himself as one of the most adventurous and multi-faced artists.   Then in 1977, Lake co-founded the internationally acclaimed World Saxophone Quartet with Julius Hemphill, Hamiet Bluiett and David Murray, which celebrated its 30th anniversary with an album of Jimi Hendrix pieces for Justin Time Records. 

Today, Oliver continues to tour and perform around the world with the WSQ and his own various groups, as well as appear as a guest artist.  Under his artistic direction, Passin’ Thru has commissioned new works, sponsored performances by emerging artists, documented works by prominent artists, and has established on-going educational activities.   The organization also operates Passin’ Thru Records, which has recently issued its 12th recording (Dat Love by the Oliver Lake Steel Quartet). In addition to Oliver’s albums, ranging from solo to big band, Passin Thru has also issued recordings by the late, legendary multi-reed master Makanda Ken McIntyre, piano great John Hicks and the first recording by Lake’s mentor, St. Louis tenor sax giant Freddie Washington.