Oklahoma-born multi-instrumentalist, trained at (what is now) the New England Conservatory of Music, who carved out his own unique niche in the avant-garde. Was briefly in Miles Davis' quintet, but Miles wasn't yet ready for The Leap, taken with Wayne Shorter in place of Rivers in the sax chair. On his own, his main vehicle has been the trio format (sharing, at one time, a rhythm section with Anthony Braxton), showcasing his woodwind and piano skills; his big band writing can be dense and dissonant. Co-founder of the (sorta) legendary (you had to be there) Studio Rivbea with his wife Bea.