Anthony Ortega

Anthony Ortega has been a mainstay on the west coast jazz scene since the 1940s. Growing up in Watts, Anthony went to school with and was exposed to many of the Los Angeles jazz musicians of the era including Charles Mingus. Playing sax, clarinet, and flute Anthony went on to play and tour with Lionel Hampton’s Band in the early 50s. Eventually, Anthony returned to the LA scene, playing and recording with Gerald Wilson’s band for many years. Even in his 80s, Anthony continues to play a regular gig with his group in Encinitas, CA. One of the unsung heroes of the jazz world, Anthony Ortega embodies the cool West Coast jazz style.