Jazz Nights: Dan Wilkins Quartet

Dan Wilkins: Saxophonist & Composer

Based in the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, Dan Wilkins is an exciting saxophonist and composer making his mark on the jazz scene. A graduate of the Manhattan School of Music (BMus 2013), Dan leads the Horizons Quartet, featuring jazz heavyweights Gene Perla, Byron Landham, and James Collins. Their self-titled album, released in 2021, showcases eight of Dan’s original compositions. The quartet has performed at premier venues like Miller Symphony Hall, Chris’ Jazz Cafe (with special guest Benny Benack III), and the COTA Jazz Fest.

Dan regularly performs alongside his father, renowned jazz pianist Skip Wilkins, interpreting timeless classics from the Great American Songbook. Together, they’ve toured internationally in the Czech Republic, Greece, and Germany, and have recorded two albums on Deer Head Records, with a third on the way.

In addition to his own projects, Dan is a frequent collaborator with vocalist Nancy Reed and performs with the Water Gap Jazz Orchestra. 

Dan’s performances are marked by his deep connection to jazz tradition, while pushing boundaries with his fresh, original sound. Don’t miss the chance to catch him live—he’s a rising star with music you won’t forget.