American saxophonist and composer Jay Beckenstein, born in 1951, is best known as the co-founder and leader of the contemporary jazz fusion band Spyro Gyra. His distinctive saxophone playing and compositional contributions have been central to the band's enduring success since the mid-1970s, making them a prominent force in instrumental jazz and popular music. Beckenstein's work with Spyro Gyra has garnered numerous Grammy nominations and a loyal international following.