Ian grew up in multi-cultural London studying saxophone and winds from childhood until graduation from the Royal Academy of Music. He has been musical director and/or composer for numerous bands over the years including Balkanatics (Balkan brass) and psych-prog legends GONG (alongside Daevid Allen, Steve Hillage, Gilli Smyth). He also works as a sideman and session player in numerous other projects such as with Reem Kelani (Arabic), Abdelkader Saadoun (north African/Meditteranean), Rosco Levee (blues/country/southern rock), Dame Evelyn Glennie and various other jazz, world and improvised music settings such as Inspiral Trio (with Gong's Dave Sturt and Kavus Torabi).
'Ian East is a first class musician. I needed a sax
part in the vein of a Van Morrison song, and he couldn't have nailed
it more perfectly. Besides his flawless playing, he came up with
themes that complimented the song and are now a concrete part of the
recording. Also, from the business side, it was a pleasurable
experience and I couldn't recommend him more.'
Paul Dougherty - singer/songwriter
http://www.pauldougherty.org
'Ian is an awesome player and provides a highly
professional, efficient service. His contributions are incredibly
tasteful, and it is clear that his main purpose is to do what is
best for the song, fulfilling the client's vision. Great work'
Rory Martin - musician/producer
https://www.facebook.com/thecritiqueband
'Ian is a breath of saxophone fresh air. His
playing style is technically fluid yet conveys a quirky, emotive
voice that is unique.'
Jill Jarman - composer/pianist
http://www.jilljarman.com
I also compose, arrange, record, mix and produce music from my own studio. My albums are available here...