Rafael Karlen is an award-winning saxophonist, composer, and educator known for his creativity and versatility across various musical genres. His music has been performed by ensembles ranging from small jazz groups, big bands, popular artists to choirs, chamber orchestras and string quartets. Prior to relocating to Switzerland in 2024, Rafael’s lyrical approach had solidified his reputation as one of Australia’s most exciting musical voices. His recent releases include Sinking Cities featuring The Australian Voices, Camerata- Queensland's Chamber Orchestra, and the self-titled Eucalyptus Treeo.
Awards and recognition include an ARIA Nomination, a Winston Churchill Memorial Fellowship, Composer-in-Residence in the Peggy Glanville-Hicks House, an ABC Jazz Commission, finalist in the Australian Jazz Bell Awards, nominations for the Freedman Fellowship from the Music Council of Australia, and an Australian Art Music Award for Excellence in Jazz with the Berardi/Foran/Karlen Trio.
Rafael holds a Doctor of Philosophy from the Queensland Conservatorium of Music.
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'If illustration were needed of how music so often speaks more eloquently than words, it would be hard to beat Australian saxophonist and composer Rafael Karlen’s new album: the words sung by Kristin Berardi often segue into expressive vocalese that tells the listener as much if not more than the narrative.'
- Nigel Jarrett
https://jazzjournal.co.uk/2022/12/20/rafael-karlen-equally-true/
‘Above all, contrary to the other varieties of saxophonists in jazz, Rafael Karlen does not act in a blatant manner, but brings out the lyrical. Truly a feast for the ears!’
https://www.jazzhalo.be/reviews/cdlpk7-reviews/r/rafael-karlen-quintet-equally-true/
'This is a wonderful performance of an impressive and engaging new work. Listen to it if you get the chance. Congratulations to all involved in this project.'
-Daniel Kaan, reviewing Sinking Cities premiere in ClassikON, 2022