Grammy Award-winning saxophonist specializing in jazz, R&B, soul, and hip-hop. Horn Section Leader and Horn Arranger on Sting & Shaggy's Grammy-winning album 44/876. Praised by Wynton Marsalis as "the greatest saxophone player I have ever heard at his age". I've opened for Gladys Knight, Boyz II Men, Jimmy Cliff, and Beres Hammond, performing at venues from Walt Disney World to Gracie Mansion. Available for solo saxophone performances, horn section arrangements, corporate events, weddings, and studio sessions. Let's make your event extraordinary.
1 review
Samantha A.
May 24, 2026Absolutely incredible experience from start to finish.
We hired David for our wedding cocktail hour and the introduction of the bride and groom, and he completely elevated the entire event. The moment he started playing, the atmosphere shifted — it felt elegant, emotional, and honestly like something out of a movie.
His saxophone tone is unreal. Smooth, powerful, and perfectly controlled. He read the room effortlessly, switching between classy background vibes and more expressive moments without ever overpowering the space. Multiple guests came up to us asking who he was and how we found him.
He coordinated seamlessly with our DJ, showed up early, and came prepared with everything needed. Zero stress on our end — just pure professionalism.
If you’re debating whether to book him: don’t overthink it. He’s the real deal. Worth every dollar and then some. We’d book him again in a heartbeat.”
— Wedding Client
Hired as: Saxophone Player
Price range: Contact for rates
Languages: English
Gig length: 60 - 500 minutes
Expect nothing less than world-class excellence. As a Grammy Award-winning artist, David delivers sophisticated, polished performances with meticulous attention to detail and discretion. Every engagement begins with personalized consultation to understand your vision, musical preferences, and event atmosphere. You'll receive custom setlist curation, seamless coordination with your event team, and flawless execution on the day. David arrives early, dressed impeccably, with professional-grade equipment ensuring pristine sound quality. Whether providing elegant background ambiance during cocktail hour, featured performances that captivate your guests, or energetic sets that elevate the celebration, he adapts seamlessly to your event's flow. Punctual, prepared, and utterly professional—David brings the same dedication to your private event as he does to Grammy-winning recordings and international stages. Confidentiality and white-glove service guaranteed.
Grammy Award-winning saxophonist David Taelon Vosges (T.V.) Barnes brings world-class artistry, sophistication, and unforgettable energy to luxury events and exclusive audiences worldwide. Recognized as Horn Section Leader and Horn Arranger on 44/876, David has built a reputation as a premier live performer whose presence instantly elevates the atmosphere of any event.
His extraordinary talent earned early recognition from Wynton Marsalis, who described him as “the greatest saxophone player I have ever heard at his age.” By 18, David had already shared prestigious stages with Gladys Knight, Boyz II Men, Jimmy Cliff, and Beres Hammond, performing everywhere from Walt Disney World to Gracie Mansion.
Today, David is sought after for luxury weddings, black-tie galas, corporate events, fashion functions, private estates, upscale nightlife, and curated celebrity experiences where exceptional entertainment is non-negotiable. His performances blend elegance, emotion, and modern luxury — seamlessly moving between jazz, soul, R&B, contemporary hits, and custom-tailored arrangements designed specifically for each client’s vision.
Beyond technical mastery, David is known for creating immersive experiences that feel exclusive, refined, and deeply memorable. Whether performing as the featured attraction, alongside DJs, or providing sophisticated ambiance for elite gatherings, every detail is curated with precision and professionalism.
As an active touring and recording musician, David accepts a limited number of private engagements annually. Availability is intentionally selective to maintain the highest standard of performance and client experience, making each booking a rare opportunity to secure internationally recognized talent for your event.
For clients seeking more than music — but an atmosphere of prestige, luxury, and unforgettable artistry — David T.V. Barnes delivers a performance worthy of the occasion.
Professional-grade equipment including saxophone, audio interface, and PA system available
Can provide background music, featured performances, or full live sets
Experienced with both acoustic and electronically-enhanced performances
Comfortable with setlist customization and special song requests with advance notice
Available for studio session work, collaborations, and music production consultations
Saturday
Wedding Reception
6:00pm - 7:00pm
•
Newtown Square, PA
Saturday
Luca Goly Exhibition Closing
All-day event
Jazz Standards: Take Five, Autumn Leaves, All of Me, Fly Me to the Moon, My Funny Valentine, Georgia On My Mind
Contemporary R&B/Soul: Lovely Day, Let's Stay Together, Ain't No Sunshine, Just the Two of Us
Modern Covers: Thinking Out Loud, All of Me (John Legend), Stay With Me
Original Compositions: Available upon request
Custom setlists created for each event based on client preferences
John Coltrane, Charlie Parker, Pharrell Williams, Timbaland, J Dilla, Kanye West, Kenny G, Grover Washington Jr., Kirk Whalum, Dave Koz, Robert Glasper, Kamasi Washington
I will bring my own microphone and EWI (electronic wind instrument). I require the venue/client to provide a suitable sound system. The sound system must have: At least one available XLR input for my microphone At least one available 1/4" input for my
Saxophone Player
