Ralph LaLama, born January 30, 1951, in West Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, is an American saxophonist and composer in modern jazz. After studying at the Dana School of Music of Youngstown State University, he joined Thad Jones' band, which brought him to New York City. He performed with big bands led by Woody Herman, Buddy Rich, Carla Bley, and the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra. LaLama's discography includes Feelin' and Dealin' (1991) under the group Ralph Lalama & His Manhattan All Stars. He also released albums under Ralph Lalama Quartet such as Momentum (1992), You Know What I Mean (1995), and Circle Line (1997). He has also released albums under his own name for the CrissCross label since 1990. Additionally, LaLama was appointed as a professor at New York University and SUNY Purchase.
