About Daniel

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Born in 1995 in Hinsdale, IL, Daniel Berkey is an experienced and compelling saxophonist currently residing in NYC. 

He received an  excellent music education, studying with renowned educators such as Nic Meyer and Greg Fishman, as well as the great faculty and students at Midwest Young Artists Music Conservatory (MYA). In high school, he was active on the Chicago jazz scene, forming relationships with many of Chicago's great musicians. During this time, he held residencies at both the Jazz Showcase as well as Andy’s Jazz Club, and was also recognized with several awards, most notably, was one of two saxophonists selected nationally to perform at the 2012 Vail Jazz Festival, received a Downbeat Outstanding Soloist award the same year, and was a YoungArts finalist in 2013.  

Since moving to NYC in 2013, he has cultivated a diverse performance schedule as a sought-after soloist and sideman, playing everything from Jazz to country to hip hop, all in any given week. He is also a composer and performs with his own group more and more frequently.

In early 2021, Berkey became the third member of Project Trio, a Brooklyn-based chamber ensemble, known the world over for virtuosic and engaging performances. With this group, he tours around the country playing shows, but also fulfills a significant educational mission, giving masterclasses and seminars about music. 

Daniel draws inspiration from many artists of different genres, but his main influence is The Great Sonny Rollins, who he credits with having 'lit the flame of aspiration' within him. He strives to bring that love and inspiration which he feels from Sonny's music (and philosophies) to his on-stage and off-stage practices.