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Baptiste Stanek is a French saxophonist, multi-instrumentalist, and composer based in Basel, Switzerland. Co-founder of the Basel Jazz Orchestra, he is a prominent figure of the Basel jazz scene.
His passion for sound and tone colors is reflected in his compositions, where he explores new textures and integrates unconventional instruments into the world of jazz.
He particularly enjoys writing for large ensembles—from sextet to octet and big band—pushing sonic boundaries to create unique musical experiences.
An international artist, Baptiste performs regularly in Switzerland, across Europe, and in South America, collaborating with musicians worldwide.
He has played at numerous prestigious festivals and clubs, including in:
➤ Romania
➤ Belgium
➤ France
➤ Spain
➤ Poland
➤ Uruguay
➤ Argentina
In August 2024, during a South American tour, he led educational workshops at the UTEC School in Mercedes (Uruguay).
Education and Training
Trained in Strasbourg, Baptiste studied classical music and jazz before continuing at the Jazz Campus Basel, where he earned his saxophone degree.
After completing a Master’s in Pedagogy, he was selected for the prestigious Focusyear program, performing alongside leading artists such as:
➤ Kendrick Scott
➤ Lionel Loueke
➤ Django Bates
➤ Chris Cheek
As well as with the international members of the Focusyear 2024 cohort.
Highly active on the European jazz scene, Baptiste performs regularly in France and was a member of the Orchestre National de Jazz des Jeunes (2019–2023).
Since 2020, he has led his own trio, releasing its debut album “Wisdom Tooth” in May 2024.
Discography and Projects
He is also involved as a sideman in numerous projects in Belgium and Switzerland. His albums include:
➤ “Extended Techniques” (2021)
➤ “Wisdom Tooth” (2024)
His next album, recorded with a quintet, will be released in May 2025 by LOUMI Records.
Collaborations
Dedicated to promoting jazz and the Basel music scene, Baptiste collaborates with international artists such as:
➤ Nduduzo Makhathini
➤ Mark Turner
➤ Diego Pinera
➤ Jorge Rossy
➤ Yumi Ito
➤ Song Yi Jeon
➤ Tineke Postma
As well as emerging talents including Tabea Kind, Marta Wajdzik, and Vaclav Palka.
A true multi-instrumentalist, Baptiste plays all saxophones, B-flat and E-flat clarinets, bass clarinet, flute, and piccolo, while continuing to explore new sound worlds.
Technical Expertise
In addition, Baptiste is recognized for his expertise in saxophone craftsmanship and collaborates with prestigious brands:
➤ Lupifaro
➤ JLV Sound
➤ Antigua
Since 2023, he has proudly played an Inderbinen saxophone, symbolizing his pursuit of sonic excellence and artistic performance.
