Steve Marcus, 66; Sax Player Was Pioneer of Jazz Fusion

Steve Marcus, 66, a jazz saxophonist who recorded and toured with Stan Kenton, Herbie Mann and Buddy Rich, died Sunday in his sleep at his home in New Hope, Pa., family members said.

He was a pioneer of the jazz fusion movement of the late 1960s, a musical movement that combined elements of rock ‘n’ roll and jazz.

Marcus had been touring recently with the quintet “Steve Smith and Buddy’s Buddies,” a tribute band that plays the music of Buddy Rich, said fellow saxophonist Andy Fusco, a member of the group.

Several of Marcus’ recordings have been recently reissued, including “The Count’s Rock Band” and “Tomorrow Never Knows.”