Composer and saxophonist Amit Friedman positions himself as one of today's leading jazz musicians in Israel. Friedman's compositions, combining sophistication and simplicity that communicate to all listeners, his unique arrangements and renowned playing, have captured a wide and varied audience of devoted jazz fans, as well as lovers of world music, rock and other styles beyond the traditional jazz style, fans who have followed Friedman for years. The music, while loyal to the jazz tradition, fuses within it elements of world music with a special emphasis on Middle Eastern music.
From an early age, Friedman has won prizes and scholarships from the America-Israel Cultural Foundation. At the age of 18, he won first prize in a young musicians music competition. In 2010 he won a grant for recording his debut album from the Ministry of Culture.
Beyond his fruitful career as a performing artist, Friedman is the musical director of a successful jazz series in its fifth year, which aims mainly to bring jazz music to young listeners.
In summer 2011 Friedman is launching his debut jazz album, recorded with his all-star working band of five exceptional musicians, all of whom are leaders in themselves. In the Amit Friedman Sextet's debut album one can hear all the members of the band shine as soloists as well as a cohesive, mature and energetic ensemble that makes music with a flair and spirit of celebration and love of life. Added to the group on a few tracks is a string quartet, playing Friedman's magical arrangements that weave together classical and jazz aesthetics.