Norbert Stein, born in 1953 near Neuwied, Germany, is a jazz saxophonist, composer, and bandleader. He studied saxophone at the Cologne University of Music from 1973 to 1979. Stein gained initial recognition as a member of groups like Boury, NoNett, and Headband, touring internationally with them. He later formed ensembles including Pata on the Cadillac and Pata Masters, featuring musicians such as Christopher Dell and Frank Gratkowski. Stein's compositions often incorporate his concept of "pata music" inspired by Alfred Jarry’s pataphysics, balancing structured arrangements with spontaneous interaction. His notable works include albums like La Belle Et La Bête / Die Schöne Und Das Biest (2000), Graffiti Suite (2006), and Silent Sitting Bulls (2010). He was also a member of the Cologne Saxophone Mafia and co-leader of the James Choice Orchestra, which he co-led until 2008. Stein has additionaly performed at numerous festivals worldwide, often collaborating with local musicians.
