Saxophonist-clarinetist Ab Baars (Magrette, Zeeuws Vlaanderen, 21 November 1955) is a mainstay in a number of important groups from the Dutch improvisation scene, like the Guus Janssen Septet, the Theo Loevendie Quintet, the Instant Composers Pool, the Corkestra and ensembles led by his partner, violist-composer Ig Henneman. The Ab Baars Trio is the main outlet for his work as a band leader and composer. Although he initially plays the soprano and baritone saxophones as well, he concentrates on the tenor saxophone and clarinet. For the latter instrument he consults the American clarinetist John Carter, who helps him to fully master the instrument, and to further develop his idiosyncratic sound. Tonal color and solo structuring are the two main weapons in his musical arsenal. He therefore has a preference for horn players exploring the extremes of tuning and coloring, like the American saxophonists Von Freeman and Albert Ayler. Since a number of years Baars has added the Japanese bamboo flute shakuhachi to his instruments, and has sought specialists to coach him in learning to play it.