Tom Caraher

Tom Caraher, a tenor saxophonist born in Bangkok, Thailand in 1990, has crafted a rich and dynamic career that bridges continents and musical traditions. Spending his early years in Thailand, Cambodia, and Pakistan, Tom’s family eventually settled in Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan, his father’s hometown. At the age of 10, the family relocated to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, where Tom’s passion for the saxophoneblossomed amidst the vibrant sounds of bluegrass and southern traditions.

Pursuing his love for music, Tom earned a bachelor’s degree in saxophone performance at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, studying under legendary mentors like George Garzone, Frank Tiberi, and Hal Crook. Following his studies, he returned to Ireland, where he has become a prominent figure in the country’s jazz and contemporary music scenes. Tom has performed as a leader to sold-out audiences across Ireland in venues such as The Mermaid Arts Centre in Bray, Arthur’s in Dublin, and Crane Lane in Cork. His debut album, Ninety Degrees, blends 1970s electric jazz with modern influences - think Weather Report meets Chris Potter, with a touch of Roy Hargrove’s RH Factor - showcasing his distinct compositional voice.

As a versatile musician, Tom has worked as a sideman with some of Ireland’s most respected orchestras and bands, including the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, Mick Flannery Band, Dublin City Jazz Orchestra, The Hot House Big Band, Connor Guilfoyle’s Birth of the Cool, Paul Dunlea Group, ZASKA, CC Brez (of Republic of Loose), The Connor McKeon Band, Aja, Phisqa, and The Booka Brass Band. His performances have graced

Ireland’s top venues, festivals, and broadcasts, including the National Concert Hall, Cork Jazz Festival, Bray Jazz Festival, The Late Late Show, The Pat Kenny Show, and more.

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