Quebec saxophonist Mario Allard has died

The distinguished jazz saxophonist Mario Allard, who shared the stage with Robert Charlebois and several others, died during the day on Sunday.

Mario Allard has had a prolific musical career both as a solo musician and with his quintet with whom he released two albums. He has shared the stage and recorded albums with renowned artists such as Robert CharleboisRenée Wilkin and Antoine Corriveau. He has also toured extensively with bands like Papagroove, The Chango Family et Coyote Bill.

In 2007, he released a first album under his name, entitled Mario Allard Quintet. The following year, he won, with his group, the Prix Galaxie -/CBC at the Montreal International Jazz Festival. In 2017, Mario Allard released a second album entitled Slideshow

The Quebec musician was inspired by the American saxophonist Donny McCaslinwith whom he learned greatly during his studies in Brooklyn in 2010. He also completed a master’s degree in Jazz Performance from McGill University in 2016.

Several tributes have flooded into social networks in the last hours. Former colleagues and friends testified on their personal page to celebrate Mario Allard and to highlight his great career.

The saxophonist died of accidental circumstances during the day on Sunday.

Photo credit: Official Facebook page