Kareem Kandi, a Pacific Northwest native, is a sought-after saxophonist known for his prowess as a performer, composer, and educator. His musical journey spans a rich tapestry of Jazz, Blues, Classical, and Funk, commanding attention both on and off the stage.

With a career marked by performances across the United States and internationally, Kareem’s artistry harmonizes reverence for musical legacies with a forward-looking approach. He crafts original compositions and reimagines timeless classics from the American songbook, captivating audiences and critics alike.

Since 1996, Kareem has been a fixture as both a bandleader and a sideman, enchanting diverse crowds in concert halls, festivals, and clubs worldwide. His collaborations read like a who’s who of the music industry, including luminaries such as Patti Labelle, The Temptations, and Pete Christlieb, among many others. The signature sound of The Kareem Kandi Band embodies freshness and innovation, appealing to an extensive spectrum of music enthusiasts.

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest nurtured Kareem’s musical journey, offering him the chance to learn from and perform alongside world-class jazz luminaries like Tracy Knoop, Bill Ramsay, and Pete Christlieb. His educational path, marked by scholarships to Olympic College and Cornish College of the Arts, allowed him to refine his craft under the tutelage of esteemed jazz artists on faculty, shaping his musical identity.

Post-graduation in 2002, Kareem has ceaselessly engaged in performance, composition, and teaching. He plays a pivotal role as an artist-in-residence at The Tacoma School of the Arts, mentors a substantial cohort of private students, and conducts jazz classes and workshops throughout the Pacific Northwest. Additionally, he directs musical ensembles, contributes to arts commissions, and serves as a performing artist and clinician for Conn-Selmer and D’addario Woodwinds.