Ken LeeGrand

Awarded: 2025
Born: Cleveland, OH

"He knows how to go for the ecstasy notes at the end of a tune."

- Sam Andrews, Music Director, Big Brother & the Holding Company

---

Ken LeeGrand’s musical journey began at Rozelle Elementary School in East Cleveland, Ohio. He has since distinguished himself as a performer, session player, producer, clinician and director.

Known for his inspirational saxophone solos, Ken has shared his virtuosity with an array of artists from diverse genres, including gospel, pop, R&B, and jazz. His 1970s band, TOJAM, opened for Dexter Gordon, with his sidemen Eddie Gladden, George Cables and Rufus Reid.

As the frontman for Horns & Things, Ken has released five CDs and opened for Jimmy Heath, Ronnie Laws, and Joe Sample, among other jazz notables.

He is strongly committed to securing the future of jazz by teaching private classes, sponsoring “Saxophone Retreats,” and serving as the resident artist for the Grammy Signature School in the Shaker Heights Schools.

Ken is currently the Director of J@MS, Jazz at the Music Settlement, a nationally acclaimed program in partnership with the Berklee City Music Network.