(LENOX, Mass.) – Internationally acclaimed tenor saxophonist Benny Sharoni brings his quintet and his straight-ahead jazz stylings to The Mount on Friday, July 14, and Friday, August 18. Both shows are from 5pm to 8pm. The event is free and held on The Terrace.

A mainstay on the international jazz scene, Sharoni is a straight-ahead player who fuses together the classic bop influences of Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gordon, and Steve Grossman, among others, flavored with Latin rhythms.

In addition to performing worldwide with his own band, the Israeli-born Sharoni has appeared with Joshua Redman, Danilo Perez, Kenny Garrett, and Larry Coryell. The consistent hallmark of Sharoni’s playing is the deep warmth and beauty of his tone and his lyrical phrasing.

Sharoni’s quintet features bassist Todd Baker, drummer Steve Langone, and guitarist Mike Mele.

Sharoni has released two CDs as a leader and is currently putting the finishing touches on a new recording featuring saxophonist George Garzone. He’s been variously compared to great saxophonists including George Coleman, John Coltrane, and Joe Lovano, as well as Sonny Rollins.