Michael Olsen is a Danish saxophonist rooted in the jazz world. He plays baritone saxophone as a permanent member of Aarhus Jazz Orchestra - one of Europe's leading big bands - and has also contributed to major pop recordings with TV-2. Olsen holds a diploma in saxophone and pedagogy from the Southern Danish Music Conservatory and the Rhythmic Music Conservatory in Copenhagen, and has taught at Haderslev Music School since 2008.
Michael Olsen participated with Aarhus Jazz Orchestra at Aarhus Jazz Festival 2026 (26 June - 5 July) as a baritone saxophonist.
Aarhus Jazz Orchestra released the album Shapeshifter with Michael Bladt, produced by Bill Laurance from Snarky Puppy - a project Olsen participated in as a permanent orchestra member.
Aarhus Jazz Orchestra performed at the Jazzkaar festival in Tallinn in April 2025 with Bill Laurance as a guest.
Aarhus Jazz Orchestra won the Danish Music Award Jazz 2023 in the category Composer of the Year for the collaboration with Karmen Rõivassepp on the album Ambivalence.
