Carol Chaikin, whose recording debut as a leader was disappointingly commercial (a self-titled CD for Gold Castle) is actually a fine bop and hard bop-based altoist. She started off originally with classical flute and piano lessons, eventually adding bassoon. After she discovered the joys of improvising, Chaikin switched to alto and bebop. She attended the Berklee School Of Music and, starting in 1977, became the regular artist-in-residence at the Aspen Music Festival for six years. She was a member of Maiden Voyage (1980-84), moved to New York City and has since freelanced. In recent times Carol Chaikin has been featured with Diva. ~ Scott Yanow, Rovi