Everything Saxophone Podcast

There was a ton of action going on at the P. Mauriat booth during the NAMM Show 2024. Despite that, I still had the privilege of speaking with Jeremiah True, Brand Manager at P. Mauriat, who is a really special guy.

Jeremiah True is a versatile woodwind performer proficient in all saxophones, clarinets, flutes, and bassoon. With a rich background spanning orchestral, jazz, theatre pits, and rock 'n roll, he brings extensive experience to every performance. Recently, he concluded a distinguished 21-year tenure in the US Air Force Band Program, marking a celebrated chapter in his musical journey.

P. Mauriat instruments are crafted with unparalleled attention to detail. Each saxophone body undergoes extensive hand-hammering, up to 400 times, ensuring exceptional resonance. Precision is paramount, with each tone hole drawn individually for consistent response and intonation. Their lacquer process, applied in three stages, creates a timeless vintage finish. Hand engraving, done with a simple tool and years of expertise, adds a final touch of mastery. Every instrument is meticulously inspected by their quality control team to guarantee excellence.

In this episode, we talked about:

🎷 20th anniversary alto and tenor saxophones 🎷 P. Mauriat touring case 🎷 How his ability to double changed his life 🎷 How he managed practicing and mastering his craft with an extremely busy schedule 🎷 And much more!

You can catch their Bio, and the link to their website on our site.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

If you perform in Rock, Blues, Marching Band, Military ensembles, and are tired of getting drowned out by all the other instruments, you need to try Rovner’s latest offering, the LGX Ligature. Pure power without losing the quality of your tone. Just go to www.rovnerproducts.com for more info and to purchase.

Unlock the benefits of becoming a Patron, gaining early access to all NAMM Show 2024 episodes. Plus Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, searchable transcripts, and an array of bonus content not available anywhere else.

If you want access to those videos, sign up now by clicking HERE.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of meeting Steve Teeters and Tyler Rogers of Claude Lakey Woodwinds at the NAMM Show 2024 to discuss their amazing saxophone mouthpieces.

For over fifty years, Claude Lakey's enduring legacy has thrived within the company he established, evolving from its modest inception in a corner of a music shop in 1962 to its esteemed stature today. Today, as a family-owned enterprise, the company continues Lakey's tradition, offering premium, American-made mouthpieces, compass ligatures, and music accessories of exceptional quality.

Claude Lakey Mouthpieces has a tradition of responding to their customers' needs to give musicians complete diversity in the genre to suit any gig they might play.

Claude Lakey mouthpieces come bundled with Rovner Products ligatures.

We talked about:

🎷 The History of Claude Lakey Mouthpieces 🎷 How Banda Music influenced Lakey Mouthpieces to create a new Clarinet mouthpiece 🎷 Apollo, Ebony, and Rhodium models

You can catch their Bio, and the link to their website on our site.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

If you perform in Rock, Blues, Marching Band, Military ensembles, and are tired of getting drowned out by all the other instruments, you need to try Rovner's latest offering, the LGX Ligature. Pure power without losing the quality of your tone. Just go to www.rovnerproducts.com for more info and to purchase.

Support the show and get early access to all NAMM Show 2024 episodes! Plus Bonus episodes and searchable transcripts. Go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone for details

Victory Musical Instruments remains the top choice for musicians and dealers worldwide due to its commitment to excellence. Offering exceptional sound quality, precise intonation, and improved mechanisms, Victory Instruments are designed with musicians' needs in mind. These wind instruments, prized by musicians globally, stand out for their superb craftsmanship and unique design.

Driven by a passion for music and a commitment to excellence, Victory Musical Instruments strives to deliver instruments that exceed expectations. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a discerning dealer, Victory Instruments promises a superior musical experience through superb quality, innovative design, and a dedication to customer satisfaction.

In this episode, I spoke with Melvin Quinones, the founder and President of Victory Musical Instruments, about their amazing products, including the new screw-less saxophones showcased at the NAMM Show 2024.

We talked about:

🎷 The revolutionary new saxophone design that will change the industry 🎷 Close-up of revelation series horn 🎷 New Low C# key guard

You can catch their Bio, and the link to their website on our site.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

If you perform in Rock, Blues, Marching Band, Military ensembles, and are tired of getting drowned out by all the other instruments, you need to try Rovner’s latest offering, the LGX Ligature. Pure power without losing the quality of your tone. Just go to www.rovnerproducts.com for more info and to purchase.

Unlock the benefits of becoming a Patron, gaining early access to all NAMM Show 2024 episodes. Plus Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, searchable transcripts, and an array of bonus content not available anywhere else.

If you want access to those videos, sign up now by clicking HERE.

Established in 1919 by Jesse James Babbitt, the JJ Babbitt Company, Inc. is the industry's oldest mouthpiece manufacturer for clarinets and saxophones. Still family-owned, it's now led by Steve and Debbie Rorie and remains rooted in Elkhart, Indiana.

Based in Elkhart, Indiana, formerly hailed as "The Band Instrument Capital of the World," the JJ Babbitt Company has crafted millions of mouthpieces over its century-plus history. It holds the title of the world's leading producer of woodwind mouthpieces for students, intermediate players, and professionals alike.

Renowned globally for their craftsmanship, performance, and value, Babbitt products are highly esteemed. Sold solely through music dealers and distributors, mouthpiece variations bear brand names such as Otto Link, Meyer, Meyer Bros, Premiere by Hite, and J&D Hite. Additionally, the company offers custom models and private labeling services, catering to individuals seeking to develop and market their own mouthpiece lines.

In this episode, we talked about:

🎷 History of the Otto Link mouthpieces 🎷 LA mouthpiece 🎷 Tone Master  🎷 Florida model

You can catch their Bio, and the link to their website on our site.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

If you perform in Rock, Blues, Marching Band, Military ensembles, and are tired of getting drowned out by all the other instruments, you need to try Rovner's latest offering, the LGX Ligature. Pure power without losing the quality of your tone. Just go to www.rovnerproducts.com for more info and to purchase.

Level up your sax experience!

Unlock the benefits of becoming a Patron, gaining early access to all all NAMM Show 2024 episodes. Plus Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, searchable transcripts, and an array of bonus content unavailable anywhere else.

Head on over to our Patreon Site and support the show.

Silverstein Works is an accessories company committed to excellence in the realm of music. 

They specialize in researching and developing premium-quality products, aiming to set the highest standard in performance and usability for musicians.

During this year's NAMM Show, I had the opportunity to speak with Calvin Son, President and Director of Artist Relationships at Silverstein Works, about their new Saxophone Mouthpieces and Reeds, which I am very excited to showcase.

In this episode, we talked about:

🎷 Silverstein ligatures - Hexa 🎷 Leo Alto Sax mouthpiece 🎷 Leo Tenor Sax mouthpiece 🎷 Ambipoly Jazz Reed 🎷 Ambipoly Classic Reed 🎷 and much more!

"The Ambipoly Reeds actually absorb moisture, allowing the reed to have a cane-like sound" - Calvin Son

You can catch their Bio, and the link to their website.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

If you perform in Rock, Blues, Marching Band, Military ensembles, and are tired of getting drowned out by all the other instruments, you need to try Rovner’s latest offering, the LGX Ligature. Pure power without losing the quality of your tone. Just go to www.rovnerproducts.com for more info and to purchase.

Unlock the benefits of becoming a Patron, gaining early access to all NAMM Show 2024 episodes. Plus Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, searchable transcripts, and an array of bonus content not available anywhere else.

If you want access to those videos, sign up now by clicking HERE.

Saxophonist, flutist, and educator Sharel Cassity is a standout in New York and Chicago jazz circles. Named the 2023 "Rising Star Alto Saxophone" and featured on Downbeat Magazine's cover, she's graced TV shows like Today, Good Morning America, and The Colbert Show. Honored in the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame, Sharel's also received the ASCAP Young Jazz Composers Award.

Sharel's collaborated with Grammy winners like Jennifer Hudson, Natalie Merchant, and Aretha Franklin, plus artists like Vanessa Williams and Ruben Blades. In jazz, she's shared the stage with legends like Herbie Hancock and Wynton Marsalis, and even performed with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra. As a bandleader, her albums have earned rave reviews from top publications and led to exciting collaborations like Altoizm, Precarious Towers, and her upcoming project, Alliance.

Cassity is passionate about jazz education, founding the non-profit program "Jazz Up!" to bring live jazz experiences to suburban students unable to access them otherwise. As a jazz professor at DePaul University and Elgin Community College in Chicago, she's dedicated to nurturing the next generation of musicians. Keep an eye out for their upcoming event, the Summer Combo Intensive, scheduled for June 17-22, 2024!

Sharel proudly represents Yamaha and Vandoren as a Performing Artist, exclusively utilizing Yamaha instruments and Vandoren equipment. Additionally, she joins in celebrating Vandoren's 20-year anniversary.

Her latest album, "ALLIANCE," released on Shifting Paradigm Records on March 15, is now available on all platforms!

You can catch her Bio, and the link to their website on our site.

In this episode, we talked about:

• The special reason Sharel attended NAMM this year
• Angry Birds...(watch to see what I mean 😉 )
• Sharel's tips to help improvisers feel confident to take solos
• Cassity's new album, Alliance, featuring an all-women quartet
• Jazz Up Institute Summer Camp & how it mentors students to survvive in the real world

Some of my favorite artists and mentors were the best teachers"- Sharel Cassity

his episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

If you perform in Rock, Blues, Marching Band, Military ensembles, and are tired of getting drowned out by all the other instruments, you need to try Rovner’s latest offering, the LGX Ligature. Pure power without losing the quality of your tone. Just go to www.rovnerproducts.com for more info and to purchase.

Unlock the benefits of becoming a Patron, gaining early access to all NAMM Show 2024 episodes. Plus Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, searchable transcripts, and an array of bonus content not available anywhere else.

If you want access to those videos, sign up now by clicking HERE.

Born in Detroit, Rick Margitza's musical journey began with classical saxophone training under Donald Sinta at the University of Michigan. He also studied jazz with notable mentors like Sonny Stitt and Michael Brecker. Graduating from Loyola University in New Orleans, Margitza's musical style was deeply influenced by the city's rich cultural tapestry.

Relocating to New York in 1989 marked a significant chapter in Margitza's career. Collaborating with legends like McCoy Tyner and Miles Davis, he showcased his versatility in renowned venues worldwide. His move from New Orleans to New York broadened his musical horizons and propelled him into the heart of the jazz scene.

Margitza's artistic evolution is reflected in his ten albums as a bandleader, showcasing his prowess as both saxophonist and composer. His compositions span diverse genres, from intimate ballads to dynamic ensemble pieces, demonstrating a rich array of influences. Beyond solo work, Margitza's orchestral compositions highlight his expansive musical palette.

Since 2003, Paris has been Margitza's home, where he continues to innovate in jazz expression. Deeply connected to his Eastern European Gypsy heritage, he explores new musical territories with the band Gypsy Tenors. Recent releases like "Cheap Thrills" and "Sacred Hearts" underscore his commitment to artistic exploration. Alongside performing, Margitza shares his insights in jazz education, inspiring students worldwide.

Rick’s new book, 365 Days of Practice is the result of a project in which he posted an idea online every day during the year 2020.

The exercises cover a broad spectrum of musical ideas that range from basic bebop language to its transformation into contemporary jazz.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Ricks's musical background
• How technology affects the way we learn music
• 2 most important scales you need to know
• Meeting Miles Davis
• The importance of subdivisions
• Inspiration for the book
• And much more!

All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming.

If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site.

I am consistently thrilled to visit the Theo Wanne booth at every NAMM Show, as they invariably unveil exciting new products. During the NAMM Show 2024, I had the pleasure of speaking with Matt Ambrose, the Chief Machinist, and Thomas Harris about the latest Theo Wanne saxophone mouthpieces.

Theo is considered the world’s foremost expert on the design and manufacturing of saxophone mouthpieces. As a child Theo was a traditional apprentice designing and building professional bicycle frames by hand. He learned to shape materials, braze, and jig at a young age all by hand. 

In order to share his knowledge of vintage & hand modified products, Theo opened Saxophone Mouthpiece Heaven in 1998 in Philadelphia, PA, which became the world’s foremost knowledge database on saxophone mouthpieces.

In 2007, he started manufacturing his own line of mouthpieces and saxophones. He used the designs he had developed for his many famous clients, such as Mindi Abair, Joshua Redman, Chris Potter, Eric Alexander, Jan Garbarek, Nelson Rangell, Tim Price, Grover Washington Jr., etc.

In this episode, we talked about:

• The new Theo Wanne Brahma Soprano mouthpiece
• Which styles are best for the Brahma Soprano mouthpiece
• Lakshmi Alto Sax mouthpiece & who it's best for
• Sneak previews! (Brahma Alto)
• New Brahma Bari Sax hard rubber mouthpiece- Coming Soon!

You can catch their Bio, and the link to their website on our site.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

If you perform in Rock, Blues, Marching Band, Military ensembles, and are tired of getting drowned out by all the other instruments, you need to try Rovner’s latest offering, the LGX Ligature. Pure power without losing the quality of your tone. Just go to www.rovnerproducts.com for more info and to purchase.

Unlock the benefits of becoming a Patron, gaining early access to all NAMM Show 2024 episodes. Plus Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, searchable transcripts, and an array of bonus content not available anywhere else.

If you want access to those videos, sign up now by clicking HERE.

I had the pleasure of meeting Chris Kortschot from Legere Reeds at the 2022 NAMM Show, where he showcased some truly remarkable reeds. It was delightful to reconnect with him at the 2024 NAMM Show, where Legere unveiled their latest innovation, the Frech Cut reeds.

Légère Reeds Ltd. was founded in 1998 by Dr. Guy Légère and Dr. Mark Kortschot, driven by Dr. Légère's quest for a reed that matched the performance of moist cane without its typical drawbacks.

After numerous trials, the first sixty prototypes were crafted on a homemade CNC machine and sold out within half a day at ClarinetFest in 1998, signaling the beginning of the company's success.

Today, Légère Reeds produces advanced synthetic reeds for various single and double reed instruments, manufactured in an ultra-modern facility in Barrie, Ontario, Canada, and distributed worldwide.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Which instruments the French Cut is available for
• French Cut Reed Sizes and comparisons to other reeds
• What makes the French Cut different from the other Legere models
• Legere's Exchange Program
• and much more!

You can catch their Bio, and all of their links on our site.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

If you perform in Rock, Blues, Marching Band, Military ensembles, and are tired of getting drowned out by all the other instruments, you need to try Rovner's latest offering, the LGX Ligature. Pure power without losing the quality of your tone. Just go to www.rovnerproducts.com for more info and to purchase.

Level up your sax experience!

Unlock the benefits of becoming a Patron, gaining early access to all all NAMM Show 2024 episodes. Plus Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, searchable transcripts, and an array of bonus content unavailable anywhere else.

Head on over to our Patreon Site and support the show.

Susanne Alt, a versatile artist from Amsterdam, excels in saxophone, composition, DJing, and production. Born in 1978 in Würzburg, Germany, Alt showed early promise, winning the Siemens Prize for young talent in classical saxophone during her formative years at the Meistersinger-Konservatorium Nuremberg.

Alt's musical journey continued as she pursued jazz saxophone studies in the Netherlands, honing her skills at conservatories in Hilversum and Amsterdam. Her dedication led her to further education at the Universität der Künste Berlin, where she graduated with honors in 2003.

Since 1999, Alt has been captivating audiences with her saxophone performances, both as a solo artist and collaborating with DJs in Amsterdam's nightlife. Her venture into production began in 2004 with the release of "Nocturne" on her label, Venus Tunes, marking the start of a prolific career in music production.

In recent years, Alt has expanded her artistic horizons, delving into DJing and live performances characterized by her soulful, deep, and funky sound. Notable endeavors include "Venus Tunes Live," an all-female ensemble blending live instrumentation with DJing, and collaborations with renowned artists across various genres.

We talked about:

• Jam sessions and playing with great musicians

• How to not overplay

• Her career as a DJ and House Music suggestions

• Call and response in performance

• Susanne’s insights into finding your own voice

• Her new album and the influence of Roy Hargrove on her and on jazz music

• And more!

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Support your love to our podcast! 

Become a Patron, and for as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

The EMEO, the pioneering digital practice horn for saxophonists, has expanded its offerings to include mouthpieces crafted from FDA-approved dental material and solid silver. Mouthpieces showcased at the NAMM Show 2024 are currently accessible for alto and tenor saxophones, as well as clarinets.

We talked about:

• How EMEO is using FDA-approved dental material
• Why their solid silver mouthpiece is very interesting acoustically
• How to get more info on the EMEO mouthpieces

You can find their links on our site.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

If you perform in Rock, Blues, Marching Band, Military ensembles, and are tired of getting drowned out by all the other instruments, you need to try Rovner’s latest offering, the LGX Ligature. Pure power without losing the quality of your tone. Just go to www.rovnerproducts.com for more info and to purchase.

Want to support the show?

Become a Patron, and for as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

Founded by Lars Hueseler and a group of enthusiasts in late 2007, Forestone emerged determined to revolutionize the reed industry by overcoming the limitations of traditional cane and plastic reeds. 

Led by Kazunori, a former manager at Japan's leading woodwind distributor Kawai, they devised a groundbreaking material formula: a blend of bamboo and PP. This innovative combination delivered the rich tones of wood with unmatched consistency through injection molding.

Forestone was the first to utilize natural fibers combined with synthetic materials, pioneering a revolutionary approach to reed manufacturing.

You can catch their full Bio, and the link to their website on our site.

We talked about:

• What makes Forestone Reeds unique
• Different Forestone Reed Models
• Tips for trying Forestone Reeds

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

If you perform in Rock, Blues, Marching Band, Military ensembles, and are tired of getting drowned out by all the other instruments, you need to try Rovner’s latest offering, the LGX Ligature. Pure power without losing the quality of your tone. Just go to www.rovnerproducts.com for more info and to purchase.

Unlock the benefits of becoming a Patron, gaining early access to all all NAMM Show 2024 episodes. Plus Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, searchable transcripts, and an array of bonus content unavailable anywhere else.

Head on over to our Patreon Site and support the show.

JodyJazz crafts top-tier saxophone mouthpieces with patented designs and innovative manufacturing techniques. Favored by renowned saxophonists worldwide, each piece is meticulously hand-crafted in the USA, meeting the highest standards.

Founder Jody Espina, a distinguished saxophonist, recognized the crucial role mouthpiece design plays in sound and technique. His commitment to catering to students and professionals alike led to the development of exceptional mouthpieces, embodying his philosophy: "A mouthpiece for every player."

And speaking of exceptional mouthpieces, he showcased another amazing mouthpiece, the New DV HR Tenor Saxophone Mouthpiece, during the NAMM Show 2024. Also, Jody was exceptionally funny during this interview. Watch the video to see Jody playing 2 saxes at once!

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• The New DV HR Tenor Saxophone Mouthpiece
• What to look for when looking for your perfect mouthpiece
• Importance of the facing curve & why people like certain tip openings
• Special tip for how much mouthpiece to take in
• Hand Hammered Tenor Sax Mouthpiece
• The history of the Chedeville Mouthpieces & the New Jim Cantor Model
• and much more! 

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

If you perform in Rock, Blues, Marching Band, Military ensembles, and are tired of getting drowned out by all the other instruments, you need to try Rovner’s latest offering, the LGX Ligature. Pure power without losing the quality of your tone. Just go to www.rovnerproducts.com for more info and to purchase.

Experience the thriving energy of The NAMM Show 2024 at its peak, where I seized countless interviews with various saxophone companies, and I’m thrilled to share the exclusive content.

Unlock the benefits of becoming a Patron, gaining early access to all all NAMM Show 2024 episodes. Plus Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, searchable transcripts, and an array of bonus content unavailable anywhere else.

Head on over to our Patreon Site and support the show.

Marca's New Cane & Synthetic Unic Reeds blend the sonic richness of traditional cane with the durability of synthetic fibers, featuring a pioneering composition of 95% cane and 5% synthetic material, offering a potential 6-month lifespan while preserving stability and humidity control, and treated like conventional cane reeds, available for saxophones and clarinets—truly a unique innovation that left me unable to resist remarking on its exceptional nature!

For over 60 years, Marca has perfected the art of reed-making, blending traditional expertise with modern innovation. With a commitment to quality ingrained in every step of the process, from the careful selection and aging of the finest French cane to the skilled craftsmanship and rigorous testing by renowned professionals, Marca reeds have become the preferred choice of discerning wind musicians globally. Whether for student or professional use, Marca's reeds stand as a testament to excellence, offering unparalleled performance at a competitive price, ensuring that musicians everywhere can experience the unmatched quality crafted by the most exacting hands.

We talked about:

• The new Marca Reeds, Unic model
• How the Unic reeds are produced
• When the reeds will be available

You can catch their Bio, and all of their links on our site.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

If you perform in Rock, Blues, Marching Band, Military ensembles, and are tired of getting drowned out by all the other instruments, you need to try Rovner's latest offering, the LGX Ligature. Pure power without losing the quality of your tone. Just go to www.rovnerproducts.com for more info and to purchase.

Level up your sax experience!

Experience the thriving energy of The NAMM Show 2024 at its peak, where I seized countless interviews with various saxophone companies, and I'm thrilled to share the exclusive content.

Unlock the benefits of becoming a Patreon, gaining early access to all all NAMM Show 2024 episodes. Plus Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, searchable transcripts, and an array of bonus content unavailable anywhere else.

Head on over to our Patreon Site and support the show.

Saxophonist Educator and Composer, Dr. Woody Witt, is a Professor of Music at Houston Community College and is the Instructor of Saxophone at the University of Houston Moores School of Music. 

He got his Masters degree in Jazz Studies from the University of North Texas, where he taught saxophone and jazz methods.

As a jazz artist, Woody has had the opportunity to perform and record with Randy Brecker, Billy Hart, David Kikoski, and Tim Hagans among countless others.

In Fall 2023, Witt released his first book/video project of standards based jazz etudes, Stream of Consciousness, inspired by techniques he uses for himself and his students.

Woody has been a performing artist for Eastman Saxophones since 2018, and was integral in the design and testing of the Eastman Saxophones Rue St George and the new 52nd Street 852 model with Bob Mintzer and Ryan Richmond.

The link to his full biography, along with more links for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• How Woody got into music
• Improvisation tip
• Importance of melody audience connection
• Effects of social media on music
• The process of writing a dissertation Sonny Stitt
• And more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts?

All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming.

If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site.

Sylvain Carton, originally from France, is a multi-instrumentalist (woodwinds, guitars) and composer currently residing in Los Angeles. He has recorded and performed for numerous groups, including Aly and Aj, Beats Antique, Tenacious D, and Lord Huron, among others.

Sylvain is a composer and producer, crafting music for films, commercials, documentaries, and various other mediums. His big band compositions have earned him a prestigious "Subito" grant from the American Composer's Forum.

In addition to performing and composing, Sylvain is a Vandoren Performing Artist and Artistic Advisor.

Founded in 1905, Vandoren has emerged as a leading manufacturer of reeds, mouthpieces, and accessories for clarinets and saxophones. With a strong commitment to quality and innovation, Vandoren now exports 90% of its products to over 100 countries worldwide.

We talked about:

• Vandoren Profile Series of Classical mouthpieces
• The New TP4 and BP3 mouthpieces
• Difference between T75 and T75+
• Extra tip from Donna

You can catch their Bio, and all of their links on our site.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

If you perform in Rock, Blues, Marching Band, Military ensembles, and are tired of getting drowned out by all the other instruments, you need to try Rovner's latest offering, the LGX Ligature. Pure power without losing the quality of your tone. Just go to www.rovnerproducts.com for more info and to purchase.

Level up your sax experience!

Experience the thriving energy of The NAMM Show 2024 at its peak, where I seized countless interviews with various saxophone companies, and I'm thrilled to share the exclusive content.

Unlock the benefits of becoming a Patreon, gaining early access to all all NAMM Show 2024 episodes. Plus Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, searchable transcripts, and an array of bonus content unavailable anywhere else.

Head on over to our Patreon Site and support the show.

At 22 years old, Austin Gatus has had many accomplishments in his young career. 

Austin has performed with Dave Koz locally here in Los Angeles, as well as on the Dave Koz Jazz Cruises to Europe and Alaska. He sat in with the Average White Band a couple of times on a recent tour, and was a featured artist with Kenny G with the Orange County Symphony and San Diego Symphony. In a recent appearance, Austin joined Harry Style’s band as part of the horn section headlining Coachella

Austin, a cancer survivor, performs at charity events helping to fight kids’ cancer, having performed for the Starlight Foundation and Rady’s Children’s Hospital.

Austin does additional work in film & theatre composition. He was recognized as the winner of the 2021 Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards in the “Musical Theatre Composition” category presented by Tony Award winner, Idina Menzel

Austin is endorsed by JodyJazz and Rovner Products

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• Performing with Harry Styles at Coachella 2022
• The new adventure Austin has been on since our last episode with him
• Austin's new music coming out soon

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

If you perform in Rock, Blues, Marching Band, Military ensembles, and are tired of getting drowned out by all the other instruments, you need to try Rovner’s latest offering, the LGX Ligature. Pure power without losing the quality of your tone. Just go to www.rovnerproducts.com for more info and to purchase.

Experience the thriving energy of The NAMM Show 2024 at its peak, where I seized countless interviews with various saxophone companies, and I’m thrilled to share the exclusive content.

Unlock the benefits of becoming a Patreon, gaining early access to all NAMM Show 2024 episodes. Plus Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, searchable transcripts, and an array of bonus content unavailable anywhere else.

Head on over to our Patreon Site and support the show.

Emerging from their lively Kent base in the UK, TJ saxophones had their beginnings in the early 1990s. Over the years, these instruments have transformed into a globally respected brand, celebrated for their excellence in Student, Step-up, and Professional horns.

Learn more about these amazing saxophones in this episode from the NAMM Show 2024, featuring my conversation with Sandro Massullo. 

We talked about:

🎷 The New Intermediate Saxophone Models, EVO 🎷 New Intermediate EVO Tenor Sax 🎷 New Intermediate EVO Alto Sax

You can catch their Bio, and all of their links on our site.

The new Intermediate EVO Models that were featured in this episode will be COMING SOON. You're getting a First Look at them here!

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

If you perform in Rock, Blues, Marching Band, Military ensembles, and are tired of getting drowned out by all the other instruments, you need to try Rovner's latest offering, the LGX Ligature. Pure power without losing the quality of your tone. Just go to www.rovnerproducts.com for more info and to purchase.

The NAMM Show 2024 was back to its full capacity and better than ever. I was able to capture tons of interviews with many saxophone companies that I am super excited to share.

If you want access to those videos, sign up now by clicking HERE.

Pianist, saxophonist, composer, arranger, and conductor - whatever it is Gordon Goodwin touches, it’s all about his love of music.

Gordon was born in Wichita, Kansas, and Goodwin’s parents moved to Southern California when Goodwin was four.

He completed his formal music education at Cal State University-Northridge, and began working as a live performer at Disneyland.

In 1999, Gordon founded the Big Phat Band for what he thought would be a single performance at his alma mater Cal State at Northridge. Since then, the Big Phat Band has recorded 10 albums, and in the process received 25 Grammy® nominations. Goodwin won a Grammy® for ‘Best Instrumental Arrangement’ for “Incredits” for the film The Incredibles and has been honored with 3 Emmy awards for his work on the Steven Spielberg-produced shows Animaniacs and Pinky and the Brain.

His work has been featured/utilized in more than 80 film & TV productions spanning the gamut of pop culture: amplifying the likes of National Treasure, Star Trek: Nemesis, Snakes on a Plane, Get Smart, Remember the Titans, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, The Majestic (starring Jim Carrey), The Lion King, The Incredibles and Ratatouille.

Gordon has won four Grammy® Awards and three Daytime Emmy Awards and has received twenty-five Grammy® nominations for his compositions and arrangements.

He has been nominated for 3 Grammy awards this year (2024):

• Best Jazz Vocal Album: Patti Austin Featuring Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band - For Ella 2.

• Best Instrumental Composition: Quartet San Francisco Featuring Gordon Goodwin's 18-pc Big Phat Band - Cutey and The Dragon.

• Best Arrangement, Instruments, and Vocals: Patti Austin ft. Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band - April in Paris

Gordon is also the host of the popular long-running radio program, “Phat Tracks with Gordon Goodwin,” airing for 5 years on KJAZZ

The link to his full biography, along with more resources for this episode is on our website.

We talked about:

• How his 1st piano teacher had him composing music at the age of 5
• The impact of writing music for animated productions on his writing for Big Band
• The advice about orchestration that changed his approach forever
• Phil Woods’ impression of Gordon’s saxophone playing
• Gordon’s advice for self-taught musicians
• The one word multi-instrumentalist James Morrison taught him not to use
• Working at Disney with Eric Marienthal and Sal Lovano
• The pure genius of Patti Austin that contributed to the most recent Grammy nominations
• Podcast supporter questions answered!
• And more!

Wanna support the show?

Become a Patron, and for as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

For the second time, we are featuring New York-based saxophonist and composer Sam Newsome on this episode.

Sam Newsome often works in the medium of solo saxophone, and has released several critically acclaimed solo saxophone CDs.

Since we last spoke to Sam in episode 106 in 2021, he has won the Soprano Saxophone category in the 15th Annual International Critics Poll, been nominated in 2023 for the SOPRANO SAXOPHONIST OF THE YEAR by the Jazz Journalist Awards.

In addition to his solo work, Sam also performs in his own Trio and Quartet, as well as the Chaos Theory Unit Saxophone Quartet.

His latest recordings include Soprano-Logues, a digital-only recording with Dave Liebman, and Cosmic Unconsciousness Unplugged, a duet with pianist Jean Michel Pilc.

You will find Sam's links and full resources on our website. 

In this episode, we listen to, and talk extensively about that recording, along with:

• Why Sam thinks every musician is an improviser
• Embracing simplicity and clarity in improvisation
• The importance of surrendering to the moment and not having expectations
• How playing live and recording in the studio have different energy and mindset requirements
• The challenges and rewards of playing solo, including adaptability and maintaining flow
• Exploring fiction writing during the COVID-19 pandemic and Sam’s future plans
• And much more!

Become a Patron now to enjoy early releases of Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, exclusive searchable transcripts, and a wealth of bonus content. Uncover the hidden gems others won’t see – join us on Patreon today!

In this episode, we are featuring one of the Pop/Rock world’s most recognizable saxophonists, John Helliwell.

If you’ve ever heard The Logical Song, or Take the Long Way Home, Give a Little Bit, or It’s Raining Again by Supertramp, you’ve heard saxophonist and woodwinds specialist, John Helliwell.

Born in West Yorkshire, England, John’s first instrument was the clarinet.

After hearing Sidney Bechet and Cannonball Adderley, he saved up his money to buy an alto saxophone at age 15, and never looked back.

John played with many bands (The Dicemen, Alan Bown Set, and many others), and in the summer of 1973, got a call from the band, Supertramp.

They made the album “Crime of the Century” and began the long climb to international success, moving to California in the process.

“Breakfast in America” was the biggest selling album in the world in 1979!

Helliwell has been with the group for 50 years, and now also plays music based on his many inspirations - including jazz, funk, blues, soul and rock. 

He has a jazz group - “Crème Anglaise” and also plays around Europe.

The link to the full episode is on our website.

We talked about:

• Getting his first saxophone after being inspired by Cannonball Adderley
• How he taught himself jazz and learned on the fly, playing with many different bands
• The story behind joining the legendary Pop group, Supertramp, and how he’s stayed with them for 50 years 
• The stories behind his iconic sax solos with Supertramp
• Why his solos have stood the test of time
• His equipment
• New projects
• And much more!

Be a part of the rhythm in 2024!

For just $2/month, you not only support our current endeavors but also ensure the creation of great content as we journey into 2024 . Your contribution plays a vital role in the continued growth and excellence of our podcast. You'll enjoy early episode access, searchable full transcripts, exclusive bonus interview content, and a handy Podcast Directory for easy episode browsing. Just CLICK HERE to become a part of our community today, and enhancing your podcast experience!

A native of New Orleans, the birthplace of America’s music, Victor Goines is an accomplished composer, musician, and educator.  

He serves as the president and chief executive officer of Jazz St. Louis. 

In 2016, his composition Untamed Elegance, a tribute to the Jazz Age, was performed by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.

Other commissions include Suite for Bird for the Music Institute of Chicago, Crescent City for JALC, and Benny: Then, Now, Forever for the Louis Armstrong Foundation.

Goines has been a member of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra since 1993, as part of the saxophone section, in addition to being featured on the clarinet.  

He served as the Director of Jazz Studies at Northwestern University and was the Artistic Director of the Jazz Studies Program at the Juilliard School.  

He has recorded and performed with Ray Charles, Eric Clapton, Dizzy Gillespie, Dianne Reeves, Willie Nelson, Shirley Horn, B.B. King, Bob Dylan, and a host of other renowned musicians and ensembles. 

Goines composed the Woodlawn Suite in recognition of celebrating the legendary jazz artists buried at Woodlawn Cemetery. 

For the audio portion of the podcast, songs featured were Raise a Glass to Dorothy and Madam CJ Walker, both featured on Victor’s latest CD, The Woodlawn Suite.

The link to his full biography, along with the resources for this episode, is on our website. 

Our sponsor for this episode is Rovner Products, makers of fine ligatures for over 50 years.

The new Deep V Series of mouthpieces for alto and tenor saxophones, redefines tone quality by enhancing the player’s clarity and presence.

We provide the tone, you provide the character.

We talked about:

• The importance of active listening and finding something new in the music each time.

• The significance of communication and listening in improvisation, comparing it to having a conversation.

• Victor's journey in jazz, starting in New Orleans and eventually moving to New York to pursue his musical career.

• The impact of studying with Ellis Marsalis on Victor's development as a musician.

• The importance of continuous learning and striving to improve skills as a composer and musician.
• And so much more!

Patrons get early access to all Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, plus searchable transcripts and lots of Bonus content not seen anywhere else. Go to Patreon website to get access now!

Everything Saxophone Podcast Host, Donna Schwartz, interviewed New Orleans Saxophonist, Jason Mingledorff, for Episode 190.  

We spoke about:

• What made Jason want to pursue improvised music

• How he met Sax Gordon
• How Jason taught himself how to listen
• A Blues tune that’s a masterclass in Blues soloing
• Why we transcribe and how to do it
• Jason’s resource for learning tunes & a tip from Jason to appreciate Standards
• What defines New Orleans saxophone style
• Jason’s new album, Start It & the fun mashup he created
• And Much More!

Jason Mingledorff is one of the most versatile and in-demand saxophonists playing in New Orleans’ eclectic, thriving music scene.

After earning a Bachelor of Music in classical saxophone at the University of Alabama, Jason moved to New Orleans in 1995 to study under jazz patriarch Ellis Marsalis at the University of New Orleans.

He has performed with Clint Black, Dr. John, Harry Connick, Jr., Papa Grows Funk, Galactic, St. Paul & the Broken Bones, The New Mastersounds, The O’Jays and many others.

He won a Grammy award with the band, the New Orleans Nightcrawlers in 2021.

Jason started teaching at Loyola University in 2006. 

In 2012 he wrote a series of articles on New Orleans grooves for the Saxophone Journal, and currently he runs Loyola’s saxophone department and is finishing up an innovative book aimed at big band directors called Warm-Ups for YOUR Big Band. 

He has appeared on over 100 recordings, and has now released an album of his own music entitled, Start It!

It features nine original compositions performed by a top-notch band of seasoned veterans – Brian Seeger on guitar, Joe Ashlar on piano, Ed Wise on bass, and Doug Garrison on drums.

You can find Jason’s full Bio on his site. The link is on our website, saxophonepodcast.com. 

Thank You to Our Generous Sponsor

Our sponsor for this podcast is Rovner Products, makers of fine ligatures for over 50 years. The new Deep V Series of mouthpieces for alto and tenor saxophones, redefines tone quality by enhancing the player’s clarity and presence. 

Want to support the show?

Patrons get early access to all Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, plus searchable transcripts and lots of Bonus content not seen anywhere else. Go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to get access now!

This is a Bonus episode! (This is the type of Bonus content that Patrons get on a regular basis. For more info on becoming a Patron, Click Here)

There was so much positive feedback from our 2 previous episodes with Pedro Eustache (episodes 187 & 188), we decided to add a 3rd episode.

In this Bonus episode with the world-class woodwind specialist, Pedro Eustache, we wound up talking about: 

• How he transports all his instruments when performing with Hans Zimmer

• How Pedro creates new instruments

• How to play what you hear in your head 

• An improvisation tip about playing conceptually and a Coltrane example 

• Pedro’s 3 principles for transcribing

• An exercise to play through the changes

• And more! 

In case you did not listen to Episodes 187 or 188, here’s a brief Bio on Pedro… 

Pedro, widely known as Pedro Flute, is an award winning world-class flute/winds/wind synthesist/electronics soloist; composer, lecturer, educator, and researcher.

Pedro is a founding member of El Sistema's “Simon Bolivar Symphony Orchestra” (Venezuela). 

He has a collection of around 600 musical instruments [both acoustic,& electronic], which includes many uniquely designed/built by himself.

Pedro is the winds featured soloist with "Hans Zimmer Live", and held the same position with New-Age super star Yanni from 1995-2006.

He has also performed with Sir Paul McCartney, Sir John Williams, Herb Albert, Alex Acuna and countless others.

The link to his full Bio is on our website - https://saxophonepodcast.com

Our sponsor for this podcast is Rovner Products, makers of fine ligatures for over 50 years. The new Deep V Series of mouthpieces for alto and tenor saxophones, redefines tone quality by enhancing the player’s clarity and presence. We provide the tone, you provide the character.

This episode is Part 2 of a 2-part series with the world-class woodwind specialist, Pedro Eustache.

In this episode, we talked about:

• How he came to the sax from the flute

• The effect of Joe Allard & Dave Liebman on his playing

• Why Pedro plays all those instruments & how he finds the time to practice all of them

• Pedro’s background with jazz improvisation & 1 tip

• How Pedro got the opportunity to perform with Hans Zimmer 

• Challenges of playing to MIDI tracks

• And much more!

Pedro, widely known as Pedro Flute, was born in Caracas, Venezuela, and has been a US citizen for decades.

Pedro’s beginnings were marked by a rich musical culture inspired by his family, and in particular his brother, who exposed him to all types of music at a very young age.

Since that time, Pedro has become  an award winning world-class flute/winds/wind synthesist/electronics soloist; composer, lecturer, educator, and researcher.

Pedro has more than seven years of Orchestral Symphonic experience (founder member of El Sistema's “Simon Bolivar Symphony Orchestra” (Venezuela). 

Wind instruments acoustic research has led him to a collection of around 600 musical instruments [both acoustic,& electronic], which includes many uniquely designed/built by himself.

Pedro is the winds featured soloist with "Hans Zimmer Live", "Game of Thrones-Live Concert Experience" & "The World of Hans Zimmer" since 2017. He held the same position with New-Age super star Yanni from 1995-2006.

He has also performed with Sir Paul McCartney, Sir John Williams, Herb Albert, Alex Acuna and countless others.

The link to his full biography is on our Saxophone Podcast site.

Our sponsor for this podcast is Rovner Products, makers of fine ligatures for over 50 years. The new Deep V Series of mouthpieces for alto and tenor saxophones, redefines tone quality by enhancing the player’s clarity and presence. We provide the tone, you provide the character.

Show your love and support for the show by becoming a Patron!

Patrons get early access to each episode, searchable transcripts for the video episodes and Bonus content and tips.

For more info, head on over to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

This episode is Part 1 of a 2-part series with the world-class woodwind specialist, Pedro Eustache.

Pedro, widely known as Pedro Flute, was born in Caracas, Venezuela, and has been a US citizen for decades.

Pedro’s beginnings were marked by a rich musical culture inspired by his family, and in particular his brother, who exposed him to all types of music at a very young age.

Since that time, Pedro has become  an award winning world-class flute/winds/wind synthesist/electronics soloist; composer, lecturer, educator, and researcher.

Pedro has more than seven years of Orchestral Symphonic experience (founder member of El Sistema's “Simon Bolivar Symphony Orchestra” (Venezuela). 

Wind instruments acoustic research has led him to a collection of around 600 musical instruments [both acoustic,& electronic], which includes many uniquely designed/built by himself.

Pedro is the winds featured soloist with "Hans Zimmer Live", "Game of Thrones-Live Concert Experience" & "The World of Hans Zimmer" since 2017. He held the same position with New-Age super star Yanni from 1995-2006.

He has also performed with Sir Paul McCartney, Sir John Williams, Herb Albert, Alex Acuna and countless others.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Thank You to Our Generous Sponsor

Our sponsor for this podcast is Rovner Products, makers of fine ligatures for over 50 years. The new Deep V Series of mouthpieces for alto and tenor saxophones, redefines tone quality by enhancing the player’s clarity and presence. 

We talked about:

• How Pedro became comfortable performing in public
• How Pedro dealt with performance anxiety
• The need to be creative
•  Pedro’s audition for Yanni
• Yanni’s influence on Pedro’s studio work & getting back into saxophone 
• What Yanni said to Pedro that raised the level of his performance
• The influence of his jazz heroes, especially Michael Brecker
• and more!

Wanna support the show?

Become a Patron, and for as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripyts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

Max Ionata has garnered critical acclaim for his fresh take on the standards of the Jazz Masters.

Born in 1972, he is considered one of the greatest Italian contemporary saxophonists on the scene today, having published over 70 records.

Max has recorded with musicians such as Robin Eubanks, Mike Stern, Joe Locke, Bob Mintzer, Joel Frahm and many others, all over the world.

For his album, Like, the other musicians were Jesper Bodilsen on double bass and Martin Maretti Andersen on drums.

This episode was conducted via email, as Max is incredibly busy.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• the inspiration behind his new album, Like
• the infuence of Soul Music on his song choices
• the exercises he works on to build flexibility
• how he makes his lines so smooth and melodic
• and more

Be our Patreon!

If you're loving the show, consider supporting us to help keep the great episodes coming!

Head on over to our Patreon site for more info.

Carly Stock is a Los Angeles-born jazz saxophonist and woodwind artist known for her big tone and even bigger personality. 

Since she first started the saxophone, Carly fell in love with masters like Kenny Garrett and Antonio Hart, and as she honed her craft, began implementing their creativity, huge sounds, and grit into her own unique style. 

Carly found mentorship at the Colburn School of Performing Arts, where saxophonist and educator Lee Secard took her under his wing. But, it wasn’t until she saw UNT’s famed One O’Clock Lab Band that she knew she wanted to pursue music full-time. 

In the most cliche turn of events imaginable, Carly went on to earn her BM in Jazz Studies and minor in Commercial Music from the University of North Texas, where she studied with Professor Brad Leali and played in the Grammy-nominated One O’Clock Lab Band for almost two years.

Carly is an advocate for women’s equity in jazz music, and her presence and musicality continue to break boundaries in the field. 

Her debut single, “Finally,” a modern jazz ballad that represents solace after strife, is now streaming on all platforms.

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Our sponsor for this podcast is Victory Musical Instruments, the maker of The Growling Sax brand and is one of the fastest-growing instrument brands in the industry. They supply great quality instruments for beginners to advanced players and have been awarded the prestigious ‘Music Inc. Magazine Editor’s Choice Award’ for three consecutive years at the NAMM Show.

If you’re looking for great quality instruments, make sure to visit their website at www.victorymusical.com.

We spoke about:

🎷 What it was like being part of the Grammy-nominated One O'Clock Lab Band

🎷 How she has created a legacy for future women, people of color and non-binary musicians to experience success at UNT

🎷 Blues improvisation tips for all levels

🎷 Where the best jam sessions are in the Los Angeles area

🎷 All of the roles she played in roducing her first single, Finally

🎷 The Scholarship just established at UNT: The Ann MacMillan and Carly Stock Endowed Scholarship for the Jazz and Gender Equity Initiative

🎷 and so much more!

Want to support the show?

Patrons get early access to all Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, plus searchable transcripts and lots of Bonus content not seen anywhere else. Go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to get access now!

Latin Grammy Award Winner, Dr. Ed Calle,  is one of the most versatile saxophonists in the world.

Having been born to Spanish parents in Caracas, Venezuela, he showed tremendous musical potential at an early age, developing his own distinct sound (which many have said is part of his DNA).

Dr. Calle can be heard on over 1,700 albums, and over 10,000 singles, having performed with such legends as Randy and Michael Brecker,  Gloria Estefan, Arturo Sandoval, Frank Sinatra, Carlos Santana, Ricky Martin, Tito Puente, Donna Summer, The Bee Gees, and numerous others.

Dr. Ed Calle is a Latin Grammy® Award winner for Best Instrumental Album (2015) with Dr. Ed Calle Presents Mamblue,and is also a five-time Grammy® nominee.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Our Sponsor:

Victory Musical Instruments, the maker of The Growling Sax brand, is one of the fastest-growing instrument brands in the industry.

They supply great quality instruments for beginners to advanced players and have been awarded the prestigious ‘Music Inc. Magazine Editor’s Choice Award’ for three consecutive years at the NAMM Show.

If you’re looking for great quality instruments, make sure to visit their website at www.victorymusical.com.

In this episode:

• Ed shared his personal stories about Michael Brecker, Dave Liebman, John Coltrane, working with The Bee Gees and Barbra Streisand, to name a few

• He gave tips for tone and breathing that have helped him recover from an injury sustained from overblowing

• Advice for all sax players on dealing with performing loud music

• His mic recommendations, and the new mic he is raving about 

• How long it takes for material we’ve worked on to show up in our playing

• His impressions about the new Growling Sax Uprise model for Soprano Sax

• How JodyJazz mouthpieces helped Ed be able to maintain his high performance level even with his injury

• Ed’s views on practicing

• And a ton more!

You're gonna LOVE this episode!

We hope you get so much value that you will want to support the show and become a Patron.

For as little as $2/month, you can keep the epic episodes coming.

Just go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Everything Saxophone Podcast Host, Donna Schwartz, went on location to the Jody Jazz Factory in Savannah, GA to film a saxophone mouthpiece masterclass by Jody Espina, Founder of Jody Jazz Mouthpieces.

Even if you are not an equipment geek, this episode will answer all your saxophone mouthpiece questions. 

The link to this episode, along with more Resources, is on our website.

This episode was sponsored by Jody Jazz Mouthpieces, world-famous saxophone and clarinet mouthpiece makers.

Visit www.jodyjazz.com to see why artists like Kirk Whalum, Tom Scott, Andy Snitzer, George Garzone, Jeff Kashiwa, Claire Daly, Ed Calle, Derek Brown and so many others play Jody Jazz mouthpieces.

Jody went into great detail about:

• A possible reason for why your low notes do not come out 

• How the facing curve affects your sound

• The best strength reed to play altissimo

• How to choose your tip opening

• How to choose your reed strength

• A common misconception when buying mouthpieces  

• Avoid this massive mistake when trying out mouthpieces

• High baffle or no?

• Advice for self-taught musicians searching for a saxophone mouthpiece

• Should you play the mouthpiece model your idol uses?

• And SO much more!

Want to show your love and support for the show?

Patrons get searchable videos, transcripts, and Bonus content not seen anywhere else, PLUS early access to each episode.

Head on over to our Patreon site for more info and to support the show.

As always, please Like and Share the podcast and video for our episodes with your saxophone-loving friends.

In the 3rd part of our series, A Day in the Life at the Jody Jazz Factory, Donna interviewed Danielle Walker, Manager, Accounts & Relations Artist & Manager.

Along with her other responsibilities, Danielle is the main mouthpiece play-tester at Jody Jazz.

She could be testing up to 300 mouthpieces a day!

In order to be able to do that (and not lose your mind), she follows a simple process.

Find out what that is, along with how to do the "pop" test, and more of her testing tips by listening to our latest episode.

Danielle was featured in our podcast at the NAMM Show in 2022 HERE

She performs regularly with the Historic Savannah Theater in Savannah, GA, and has performed 4000 shows over the years.

Danielle has performed on all saxophones, plus other woodwinds, percussion, and has also acted major roles on stage.

Danielle is endorsed by Legere Reeds, Rovner Products and Sax Dakota.

She has been working with Jody Espina, Founder of JodyJazz Mouthpieces since 2013.

You can catch all of Danielle's links, as well as links for Jody Jazz Mouthpieces and the video for this episode on our site at https://saxophonepodcast.com 

This episode was sponsored by Jody Jazz Mouthpieces, world-famous saxophone and clarinet mouthpiece makers.

Visit www.jodyjazz.com to see why artists like Kirk Whalum, Tom Scott, Andy Snitzer, George Garzone, Jeff Kashiwa, Claire Daly, Ed Calle, Derek Brown and so many others play Jody Jazz mouthpieces.

Want to show your love and support for the show?

Patrons get searchable videos, transcripts, and Bonus content not seen anywhere else, PLUS early access to each episode.

Head on over to our Patreon site for more info and to support the show.

In this 2nd episode on location from Savannah, GA, you get to see how each Jody Jazz mouthpiece is made.

From the bar stock, through the CNC machinery, through the buffing and detailing...every step along the way.

Whether you are an equipment geek or not, everyone will get something from this episode.

We strongly encourage you to watch the video for this one on our website: https://saxophonepodcast.com

This episode was sponsored by Jody Jazz Mouthpieces, world-famous saxophone and clarinet mouthpiece makers.

Visit www.jodyjazz.com to see why artists like Kirk Whalum, Tom Scott, Andy Snitzer, George Garzone, Jeff Kashiwa, Claire Daly, Ed Calle, Derek Brown and so many others play Jody Jazz mouthpieces.

Want in on the supporter action?

Patreon supporters are getting a special bonus! I filmed a few videos of the Jody Jazz Band rehearsing. Patrons get to be a “fly on the wall” and watch as these pros tear it up.

Go HERE to become a patron of the show to keep the episodes coming.

You get first access to episodes, plus access to searchable transcripts from many of the episodes and bonus material not seen anywhere else.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like inside a factory producing saxophone and clarinet mouthpieces, you will want to listen to and watch our new 4-part series documenting a day in the life at the Jody Jazz Factory.

Donna was invited down to Savannah, GA to see how JodyJazz mouthpieces are made, start to finish.

In this episode, you will get to know Jody Espina and his motivation for starting his Jody Jazz mouthpiece company.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

This episode was sponsored by Jody Jazz Mouthpieces, world-famous saxophone and clarinet mouthpiece makers.

Visit www.jodyjazz.com to see why artists like Kirk Whalum, Tom Scott, Andy Snitzer, George Garzone, Jeff Kashiwa, Claire Daly, Ed Calle, Derek Brown and so many others play Jody Jazz mouthpieces.

We talked about:

1. What motivated Jody to move from NY to Savannah, GA 

2. The beginnings of the Jody Jazz Factory 

3. 3-D Printing vs hand facing 

4. The facing curve is everything 

5. How Jody’s thinking has helped the company thrive 

6. Why Jody can relate to beginner saxophone players 

7. and a whole lot more!

Patrons get early access to all Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, plus searchable transcripts and lots of Bonus content not seen anywhere else. Go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to get access now!

Everything Saxophone Podcast Host, Donna Schwartz, interviewed Jody Espina, President of Jody Jazz Mouthpieces, Live at the NAMM Show 2023 in Anaheim, CA.

One of the biggest releases from the saxophone industry this year has been the new DV HR alto saxophone mouthpiece from Jody Jazz Mouthpieces.

Hear what it sounds like, and get all the latest information from Jody Espina President of Jody Jazz.

The link to this episode, along with more Resources, is on our website.

We also talked about:

1. see which famous band is endorsing Jody Jazz

2. discover the Jody Jazz Band Director Kit

3. how Band Directors can get free t-shirts

4. and more

Wanna support the show?

Become a Patron, and for as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

Get a close up look at the New & Revolutionary Eastman 52nd Street Model 852 Tenor Saxophone!

In this episode, Donna interviewed Ryan Richman, of Eastman Winds, Live at the NAMM Show 2023 in Anaheim, CA.

There are so many ergonomic improvements to the saxophone with this horn.

The sound is even throughout the range.

The intonation is spot on.

It's no wonder it won awards at The NAMM Show 2023!

The link to this episode, along with more Resources, is on our website.

Listen to the episode to discover more about this new, revolutionary Eastman 52nd Street Model 852 tenor saxophone.

Be a Patreon!

Patrons get early access to all Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, plus searchable transcripts and lots of Bonus content not seen anywhere else. Go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to get access now!

A number of classical saxophonists had approached me at the NAMM Show a few years ago to let me know about the Lefreque Sound Bridge.

They were saying it radically improved their overall sound and made it more efficient to produce in-tune pitches due to the way the Lefreque Sound Bridge bypassed some of the nodes on the saxophone.

You can get the details from our previous episode HERE.

What surprised me was that the Lefreque company came out with a new ligature.

This ligature is based on the principles of their Sound Bridge, and allows the reed to vibrate more freely (hence the name, Free-Reed Ligature).

The link to this episode, along with more Resources, is on our website.

At the NAMM Show, Hans and I spoke about:

• How Hans came up with the idea for the new Free-Reed Ligature
• How the new Free-Reed Ligature works
• How the Free-Reed ligature keeps the shape of the reed
• Other placements for the Free-Reed Ligature

Wanna support the show?

Patrons get early access to all Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, plus searchable transcripts and lots of Bonus content not seen anywhere else. Go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to get access now!

You’ve probably heard all the buzz about the release of the Practice Notebooks of Michael Brecker.

This episode dives deep into the publishing of those notebooks and more!

Dr. David Demsey is the Coordinator of Jazz Studies at William Paterson University in New Jersey.

He completed his Doctoral Studies at the Eastman School of Music, and has degrees from Juilliard School of Music and the University of Maine.

Demsey was a contributing editor to the Saxophone Journal.

He is also the Curator of the William Paterson Living Jazz Archives, containing archives of Clark Terry, Thad Jones, James William and Michael Brecker.

David, along with Musical Editor, Larry Dunlap, and Publisher, Chuck Sher, were all instrumental in bringing these notebooks to the public.

We talked a great deal about the process of editing & releasing the notebooks, and for those of you who want a sneak peek inside, the video for this episode is a must-watch!

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Here’s what we covered in this episode:

1. How David met Michael Brecker

2. Brecker’s 1st ALBUM & CONCERT as a leader

3. How the damage to his vocal cords led him to pursue the EWI

4. Tone tips from Joe Allard

5. How the William Paterson University Archives started

6. The origin of publishing the notebooks

7. Looking back to Michael’s early years; sharing old pictures from the Archives

8. What got his band disqualified at a Jazz Festival

9. Brecker’s definition of playing outside

10. A tip from Brecker on how to get a good sense of time

11. A look into the recently published Practice Notebooks

12. How to approach the patterns in this book

13. What Michael said to David about transcribing his solos

14. A look inside the archives

The video for this episode is a must-watch, and if you have the ability, like our Patrons do, to search this epic episode by keyword, it would make it easier to find those key points that were important to you.

Patrons get searchable videos, transcripts, and Bonus content not seen anywhere else, PLUS early access to each episode.

Head on over to our Patreon site for more info and to support the show.

At the NAMM Show 2023, I was able to corner Maxime Carron of SYOS Mouthpieces for a few minutes to get the scoop on the latest happenings with the company.

Every year, their booth is so crowded, it’s almost impossible to get even a couple of minutes with them.

The link to this episode, along with more Resources, is on our website.

We also talked about new places you can find SYOS mouthpieces and more.

Patrons who have shown their love and support for the show get a special bonus clip from this episode.

If you want in on this and so much more Bonus content not available anywhere else, head on over to our Patreon site to sign up!

You may not have heard about the new, patented design of the EMEO Digital Practice Saxophone.

At the NAMM Show 2023, it was a big hit – their booth was crowded every single day.

The link to this episode, along with more Resources, is on our website.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

www.RovnerProducts.com

I spoke with Oleg Raskin from EMEO, and we talked about:

• The features of the EMEO Digital Practice Saxophone
• The purpose for creating it
• Their patented design
• The sounds the EMEO comes with
• How you can practice without blowing through the instrument
• Upcoming projects

Be a Patreon!

Patrons who have shown their love and support for the show get a special bonus clip from this episode.

If you want in on this and so much more Bonus content not available anywhere else, head on over to our Patreon site to sign up!

Richard Pavlidis is a saxophonist, composer, teacher and multi-instrumentalist from Melbourne, Australia.

Educated at the Victorian College of the Arts in Melbourne, Richard has toured Australia, New Zealand and Europe and has performed at major festivals including Splendour in the Grass, The Manly Jazz Festival in Sydney, and the Melbourne International Jazz Festival.

Richard’s debut solo album ‘Without Within’ was released in 2019 and supported by an Australian tour. Music from this album can be found in the Australian Jazz Real Book and the Australian Jazz Museum.

The album caught the attention of celebrated saxophonist Kenny G, who said via social media ‘I love the way you combine bebop licks with more modern-sounding phrases, and your technique is amazing. You are such a great player!’

During the Covid quarantine in 2021, Richard put together ‘Lockdown Sessions’ – a global collaborative album of jazz standards featuring performances from Germany, Israel, the USA, and all around Australia.

‘The Australian’ describes Richard as ‘a saxophone colossus in the making’.

Richard’s newest album ‘Iconography’ will be officially released on June 2, 2023.

Be sure to listen to this audio podcast version, so you can hear the track Persona in the Intro, and Still Life at the end of the episode. Both tracks are from his new album.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Our sponsor for this episode is Victory Musical Instruments.

Check out this award-winning brand of instruments at www.victorymusical.com

We talked about:

1. The 1 difficulty improvisation teachers face

2. Why you shouldn’t try to be like Brecker

3. How the greatest players think about their own playing

4. Benefits of busking

5. The challenge of performing originals with different musicians

6. A Visualization exercise to help with your altissimo

7. and more!

Wanna support the show?

Become a Patron, and for as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

When it comes to protecting your saxophone, the quality of your saxophone case is super important.

When buying a new saxophone, the case that comes with it is usually sufficient…

…In fact, cases have improved tremendously over the past few years.

But many of these cases are not suitable for traveling, especially on planes.

For the past few years, I’ve been using the BAM Hightech case for my tenor saxophones.

While I love that case, it is not a great fit for my large bell, Trevor James saxophone.

But this year at the NAMM Show 2023, I found a case that’s sleek, light and very protective.

Introducing the new Micro Zip Case from ProTec Style.

ProTec has been a major player in the music industry for decades, making cases for many instruments, as well as accessories and brass mutes.

When I heard about the new Zip Case from my friend, Zachary Sprull (of Rovner Products), I knew I had to get to their booth at NAMM.

I was so happy I did!

The case is light, durable and has a scratch resistant ABS shell.

My large bell Trevor James tenor saxophone fits perfectly in it!

The link to this episode, along with more Resources, is on our website.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

www.RovnerProducts.com

I spoke with Andy Lutz from ProTec about all the features in this episode from the NAMM Show 2023.

You’ll hear about all the great features of this case.

Plus, I share a plane travel tip at the end.

And, there’s a cover you can buy separately that acts as an insulated case that adds extra pockets for storage.

Patrons get early access to all Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, plus searchable transcripts and lots of Bonus content not seen anywhere else. Go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to get access now!

It was great catching up with Jeff Kashiwa at the NAMM Show this year.

We weren’t expecting him to be there, but we saw him at the Trevor James Saxophones booth and had to get the latest from him.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

www.RovnerProducts.com

In this short interview ( there was a really loud brass band playing not too far from us), we spoke about:

• What Jeff loves about the current tenor sax he plays
• Jeff’s new projects for 2023

Be a Patreon!

Patrons get early access to all Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, plus searchable transcripts and lots of Bonus content not seen anywhere else. Go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to get access now!

It was 5 years ago that I found out about Trevor James Saxophones.

It totally changed my thinking about modern saxophones, and transformed my own sound.

Learn more about these special saxes in this episode Live from the NAMM Show 2023, where I talked with Sandro Massullo.

And find out why great artists such as Andy Snitzer, Jeff Kashiwa, Steve Cole, Louis Van Taylor, Adrian Crutchfield and many others play Trevor James Saxophones.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Rovner Products, creators of fine ligatures for saxophone and clarinet for almost 50 years.

www.RovnerProducts.com

We talked about:

🎷 Why Donna has been playing Trevor James Saxophones for the past 5 years

🎷 The different finishes for the Trevor James horns

🎷 What makes Trevor James horns unique

🎷 and more!

Wanna support the show?

Patrons get early access to all Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, plus searchable transcripts and lots of Bonus content not seen anywhere else. Go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to get access now!

In this episode, filmed live at the NAMM Show 2023, Melvin Quinones, Founder of Victory Musical Instruments, featured the new Revelation Series of saxophones.

There's also a special performance on the Revelation Soprano by Marquinho sax at the end.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Our Sponsor:

All the NAMM Show 2023 episodes are sponsored by Rovner Products.

We spoke about:

• How Melvin’s company has grown since The Growling Sax brand

• The inspiration behind the new line of saxophones, the Revelation Series

• Added features of the Revelation Series

Patrons get early access to all Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, plus searchable transcripts and lots of Bonus content not seen anywhere else. Go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to get access now!

Saxophonist and Composer, Grace Kelly, returns to the Everything Saxophone Podcast; she has been on the show before, talking about the roles of a band leader and how she picks up her band members.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Our Sponsor:

All the NAMM Show 2023 episodes are sponsored by Rovner Products.

In this episode, we talked about:

•  How she created her “Grace-ified” version of A Night In Tunisia and other cover songs
•  The importance of practicing stage performance techniques
•  Grace’s mouthpiece switch
•  Live from NAMM Show 2023 at the Yamaha Booth – A Night in Tunisia
• and more!

Patrons get early access to all Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, plus searchable transcripts and lots of Bonus content not seen anywhere else. Go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to get access now!

Donna spoke with Matt Ambrose, Chief Machinist, from Theo Wanne Mouthpieces, at the NAMM Show 2023 in Anaheim, CA.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

All the NAMM Show 2023 episodes are sponsored by Rovner Products.

We spoke about:

• the updated Theo Wanne mouthpiece models - Brahma, Shiva and Ambika
• Matt's advice for finding the best mouthpiece for you
• Comparing the Gaia 4 to the Brahma 4

Be a Patreon!

Patrons get early access to all Everything Saxophone Podcast videos, plus searchable transcripts and lots of Bonus content not seen anywhere else. Go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to get access now!

Virginia Mayhew has performed throughout the US, Southeast Asia, Europe, Australia, the Caribbean and Bermuda, and has been an active participant in the NY jazz scene since 1987.

Virginia has performed at Carnegie Hall and many of NYC’s finest jazz venues.

She has also been featured as a leader at many jazz festivals, both within the United States and abroad, and has traveled twice as a representative of the United States as a Jazz Ambassador (in the tradition of Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington), once to the Newly Independent States and a second time to Southeast Asia.

Virginia is also the saxophonist and musical director of the Duke Ellington Legacy, an 8-piece group founded by two of Duke Ellington’s grandchildren, Edward Ellington II and Gaye Ellington.

Some of her notable albums are the critically acclaimed Mary Lou Williams’ Next 100 Years and  Thank You Uncle Edward.

She has been featured in Downbeat, Jazziz and JazzTimes magazines.

Right now, you are listening to What’s Your  Story Morning Glory featuring Wycliffe Gordon on trombone, from the Mary Lou Williams Next 100 Years Project.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• How Donna first met Virginia & the impact of female Big Bands
• When she decided to make music as a career
• Her biggest mentor early in her career – Johnny Coppola
• How she met George Cables
• How she learned improvisation
• How she makes her solos interesting
• Inspiration behind “Mary Lou Williams: The Next 100 Years” album
• Having a beginner’s mind
• and more!

Get access to the transcript for this and many of the episodes, plus tons more Bonus Content.

Click HERE to get in on the action!

If you were even a little bit curious about Fiberreed, this episode is for you!

Donna spoke with Daniel Hofmann, Fiberreed Representative for the U.S., at the NAMM Show 2023 in Anaheim, CA.

Dannie gave a complete breakdown of ALL the Fiberreed models, including the 2 new ones added within the past 2 months.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

All the NAMM Show 2023 episodes are sponsored by Rovner Products.

We talked about:

1. All the different models of Fiberreeds

2. How Fiberreed started

3. What Fiberreeds are made of

4. The new models, Carbon GSax and RPL

5. The strengths of Fiberreed

6. How to know when the Fiberreed needs to be replaced

Support the show and get early access to all NAMM Show 2023 episodes!

Plus Bonus episodes and searchable transcripts.

Go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone for details

In this 2nd episode from the NAMM Show 2023, Donna spoke with Ron Van Ostenbridge from Bari Woodwinds.

Bari was the 1st synthetic reed on the market, created by Wolfe Tannenbaum back in the 1950's.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

All the NAMM Show 2023 episodes are sponsored by Rovner Products.

We talked about:

• the new Eco Reed, and how Bari is doing its part in saving the planet
• Ron gave a great description of all the other reeds Bari makes
• Bari's line of mouthpieces
• a demo by saxophonist, Phil French

Support the show and get early access to all NAMM Show 2023 episodes!

Plus Bonus episodes and searchable transcripts.

Go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone for details

In the first of many episodes from the NAMM Show 2023, Donna interviewed Saxophonist, Angela Gomez.

Originally from Columbia, Angela is now located in Miami, FL and is taking the U.S. music scene by storm.

Up to 5 months ago, she was mostly playing alto sax, but under the advise from her good friend, Melvin Quinones (of Victory Musical Instruments), she started to play the Bari Sax.

You will hear her playing on the Bari Sax at the end of this episode.

Check out this episode of the podcast to get to know Angela Gomez!

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

All the NAMM Show 2023 episodes are sponsored by Rovner Products.

Support the show and get early access to all NAMM Show 2023 episodes!

Plus Bonus episodes and searchable transcripts.

Go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone for details

Karl Hunter is a Southern California-based multi-instrumentalist, Studio Musician, Clinician and Music Educator. He is best known for being the featured saxophone soloist with the multi-Platinum-selling, grammy nominated, contemporary swing band, “Big Bad Voodoo Daddy”, of which he has been a member for 27 years.

As of January 2020, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy has played over 3000 shows.

Karl has played for four U.S. presidents and has performed on stage with Stevie Wonder, Gloria Estefan, Garth Brooks, Little Richard, B.B King, Arturo Sandoval, and many others.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s music has been featured numerous times on television and movie soundtracks including: “Swinger’s”, “Scooby Doo”, “Phineas and Ferb”, “Dancing With The Stars”, “Friends”, “Malcolm in the Middle”, “Third Rock from the Sun” (theme song), “Party of Five”, “Ally Mcbeal”, and “Melrose Place”.

Some of Karl’s other studio work outside of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy includes recordings with Rap Mogul, Dr. Dre, funk legends Blood Stone and the Soul Legend, Solomon Burke.

Karl is a featured clinician and endorses  Yamaha Saxophones and  Clarinets & Theo Wanne mouthpieces.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

This podcast is proudly sponsored by Legere Reeds.

We talked about:

🎷 How Big Bad Voodoo Daddy started

🎷 What it’s like to play for television and game shows

🎷 Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s 3000th show

 🎷 How Karl stays inspired playing the same songs over and over for 1000’s of shows

🎷 If he could re-do his solos and make them the way he wanted them to be

🎷 How to handle recording solos when you’re not “in the moment” anymore

Get access to the transcript for this and many of the episodes, plus tons more Bonus Content.

Click HERE to get in on the action!

Los Angeles born tenor saxophonist, Mando Dorame, is best known as the co-founder of Royal Crown Revue.

His big tenor sound evokes early Americana, with his roots in Rhythm & Blues and Jazz.

Some of Mando’s biggest influences are from the tenor titans of the 20th century including Sam Butera, Illinois Jacquet, Big Jay McNeely, Sonny Rollins and Dexter Gordon.

Mando has also studied with Capitol recording legend Plas Johnson of “Pink Panther” fame.

Mando Dorame has had an illustrious career in the past 20 years as the premiere roots tenor saxophonist and co-founder of the famed Royal Crown Revue and creator of the Vegas headlining band, The Jennifer Keith Quintet.

He has also collaborated and toured with the great Bette Midler, Jon Batiste, recorded with Mike Ness and was featured on Gene Simmons TV show.

His music has been featured in many films and TV shows including:

• The Mask (with Jim Carrey)
• Dancing with the Stars
• Gene Simmons Family Jewels
• Swingers
• Something’s Gotta Give (with Jack Nicholson)
• Charmed
• PLUS MANY MORE

Aside from his own writing and arranging, Mando plays regularly with The Jennifer Keith Quintet and Royal Crown Revue.  Always in high demand, he has lately been featured in many great roots bands such as JD McPherson, Robert Gordon, Nick Waterhouse, Reverend Horton Heat, Si Cranstoun, and Grammy nominated The Blasters!

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Legere Reeds, www.legere.com

We talked about:

• The effect of Big Jay McNeely on the Great Honkers

• How he started Royal Crown Revue

• The #1 reason Mando got into Jazz

• How his song, Hey Pachuco, was selected to be featured in the Jim Carrey film, The Mask

• His idea of the Ultimate tenor sound

After the show, Mando shared some Blues advice for our Patreon supporters.

Want access to this plus tons more Bonus Content?

Click HERE to get in on the action!

American jazz tenor saxophonist, bandleader and educator, Javon Jackson, came into international prominence as a member of the legendary Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers from 1986 until Blakey’s death in 1990.

Jackson went on to release 22 recordings as a bandleader and tour and record on over 150 CDs with jazz greats including Elvin Jones, Freddie Hubbard, Charlie Haden, Betty Carter, Cedar Walton, Ron Carter, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Stanley Turrentine and Ben E. King.

Part of a new generation of musicians that blends tradition with neo-jazz, Jackson’s own bands features straight ahead jazz, hard bop, soul and funk.

His recording, The Gospel According to Nikki Giovanni, has been nominated for a 54th NAACP Image Award in the category of Outstanding Jazz Album –Instrumental.

Jackson is currently Chair of the University of Hartford’s Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz Studies since 2013.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

This episode was proudly sponsored by Legere Reeds, www.legere.com.

We talked about:

🎷How visualization helped Javon perform with his hero, Art Blakey

🎷Javon’s recipe for success ( in any field)

🎷Advice for making faster progress

🎷Best thing to help confidence

🎷Advice for amateur jazz musicians

🎷 and much more!

Javon shared some mind-blowing Bonus content about achieving Success for our Patreon supporters.

Want access to this plus tons more Bonus Content?

Click HERE to get in on the action!

As a native of Louisville, Kentucky, Marcus grew up with aspirations of becoming a pro football player, but his goals changed after having committed over 13 years of his young life to the U.S. Navy honorably.

During this time, his love for jazz grew by listening and learning from the late Grover Washington, Jr., David Sanborn and Kirk Whalum, to name a few.

Marcus says on one account,” I became truly inspired by a phone call from the late saxophonist, George Howard, a conversation I’ll never forget.”

Surprisingly, Marcus would find himself with Rebbie Jackson (sister of Jacksons; Janet Jackson) during her show in Las Vegas. He knew his life was being routed towards a musical journey.

During Marcus’s musical journey, he has received encouragement from famed percussionist, Sheila E. and fellow saxophonists: Nelson Rangell, Najee, his sax mentors: Joe Yorio (Toured with Peabo Bryson), Mel Holder (Grammy & Stellar Award Nominee).

In 2019, Marcus won the AMG’s Instrumentalist of the Year Award.

Also, he has released music singles that have climbed the charts.

Notably, his single, “Brand New Day”, was produced by International Recording Artist, Jonathan Fritzen. It debuted #1 for the most spins (1st week in rotation) for Billboard Smooth Jazz radio stations.

Also, “Together We Stand” charted on SmoothJazz.com Top 50 list and is currently spinning on Sirius XM Radio’s Watercolors and the Music Choice Network.

Marcus is set to release his new self-titled CD “Brand New Day”, this coming Q1, 2023. Some notable Artists, Musicians and Producers include: Mel Holder (multi-talented Grammy, Stellar, and Dove Award-nominated artist, composer, arranger, saxophonist, author and pastor), Roger Ryan (Multi-Grammy, GMA Dove nominated, Juno Award-winning Producer, musician, composer & songwriter), William Green (musician, composer, songwriter and producer), Ben Parris (Grammy “Emerging Artist” Award-winner, multi-instrumentalist & producer), Madoca Kawahara (national recording artist, keyboardist & composer), Jonathan Fritzen (contemporary jazz pianist, multi-instrumentalist & producer), Bob Baldwin (contemporary jazz pianist, music composer, author, inventor, radio host and creator of the NewUrbanJazz.com Lounge, and music producer) and Alissia Benveniste (A self-proclaimed funk revivalist, Bassist, multi-instrumentalist & producer)

A little about “Brand New Day”….this compilation of music is about a brief summary of Marcus’s life. It begins with his journey as a young adult to his transformation into a renewed, inspired man, father and musician, which can be noticed and heard by the titles of his songs.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

🎷How tips from Nelson Rangell, Najee and Mike Phillips changed his playing

🎷His pro football path, his service in the US Navy, and how he transitioned into a music career

🎷How he met and stayed with The Jackson Family 

🎷Taking your saxophone playing to that next level

🎷 and much more!

Lots of Bonus Content for our Patreon supporters!

Get access to this and more from many of our other guests, plus searchable transcripts from many of the episodes and more by CLICKING HERE.

This is Part 2 of a 2-part series with Saxophonist, Certified Alexander Teacher, and Wellness Coach, Bill Plake.

You can catch up on Part 1 HERE.

Bill Plake works as an Alexander Technique teacher, performance coach, and professional musician.

He is an AmSAT certified teacher of the Alexander Technique, maintaining a busy private practice working with musicians of many styles and genres, including members of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra, the LA Opera Orchestra and some of the finest sessions musicians in Los Angeles.

Bill is also an NCCA Certified Health Coach and is certified as a functional fineness specialist, and as a corrective exercise specialist. Helping musicians of all ability levels function better, feel better and perform better is his passion.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

This podcast is sponsored by Rovner Products www.rovnerproducts.com

We spoke about:

🎷 What is the Alexander Technique

🎷 The biggest misinformation out there about articulation 

🎷 The biggest obstacle all musicians face

🎷 How you should pay attention to what you’re doing when you play

🎷 What embouchure dystonia is and what to do about it

🎷 and much more!

We are so grateful to our Patrons, who support the show and help keep the podcast going.

In this Part 2 episode with Bill, Patrons get access to this Bonus Material

• how arthritis affects functionality – how we can function with it
• the anatomy of our thumbs and how we get tendonopathy in the thumbs
• how we should hold our thumbs
• the purpose of the right thumb hook
• all the things saxophonists do that make it harder to play

CLICK HERE for access to this, plus tons of Bonus Content not seen anywhere else.

As a musician, Bill has performed on saxophone throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.

He has worked with several creative music and modern jazz luminaries such as Charlie Haden, Ravi Coltrane, James Newton, Nels Cline, Vinny Golia, John Carter, Michael Vlatkovich and others, and has been favorably reviewed in such publications as Downbeat, Jazz Times, the Los Angeles Times, Cadence and the New York Times.

He is the composer of 10 ebooks on jazz improvisation pedagogy, and teaches the Alexander Technique at the AMDA Conservatory for the Performing Arts in Los Angeles.

Bill lives in South Pasadena, California with his wife and daughter.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

This podcast is sponsored by Rovner Products

In this episode, we talked about:

🎷 The Bartok-Monk connection

🎷 The biggest sound he've ever heard on flute

🎷 Two types of improvisation

🎷 How Bill approaches learning a new standard

🎷 Why Chris Potter amazes him

🎷 Playing for enjoyment vs being technical

🎷 and much more!

Patrons that support the podcast are getting bonus material on behind-the-scenes conversations, searchable transcript of this video, tons of bonus videos from our previous guests, and so much more!

CLICK HERE for access to this, plus tons of Bonus Content not seen anywhere else.

Ryan Richman is the Vice President of Eastman Music Company.

He has worked in the music business for 27 years in various roles including performing, teaching, sales, and repair.

His career began in the repair shop of his local music store cleaning rental returns and helping with sales and rental events.

During his time in music retail, Ryan served as a Music Education Representative for many years, assisting instrumental music teachers throughout the state of Utah.

Along with his work in music retail, Ryan has performed in many musical venues as a woodwind doubler, taught private woodwind lessons, and taught clinics across the country.

Ryan joined Eastman in 2011 as a Sales Manager and has had the privilege to serve as the Sales Manager for 30 states in the U.S. He also filled the roles of Wind Product Manager and Director of Wind Product Development before being appointed Vice President of the company in 2016.

As Vice President, Ryan oversees many aspects of business including sales management and product development for Eastman and the other brands in the Eastman family.

Ryan resides in Utah with his wife Rochelle, who is the Director of Bands at Kaysville Jr High, and their three daughters Emma (Flute), Hannah (Clarinet), and Stella (Bassoon).

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Rovner Products: www.rovnerproducts.com

We talked about:

🎷 How the Eastman Music company evolved

🎷 The difference between lacquered vs unlacquered

🎷 One important part of the saxophone that’s often overlooked

🎷 Differences between Rue St George & 52nd St

🎷 The influence of Bob Mintzer in the making of the new 52nd Street model

🎷 Three attributes that are very important for any brass-bodied instrument

🎷 and much more!

All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site: https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Michael Wilbur is a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, song writer, producer and recording engineer.

His main instruments are tenor and bass saxophones.

He is in the bands, Moon Hooch and Thundersmack, and has his own solo projects under his name.

Michael is an avid plant-based athlete, music educator, environmentalist and animal rights activist.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

This episode was sponsored by:

OnKey App – links to OnKey on the App Store and Google Play: https://linkmix.co/11048548

Rovner Products

We talked about:

🎷A quote that’s driven Michael’s career to new levels of success

🎷How he’s dealt with chronic asthma

🎷Why fitness is so important

🎷How Moon Hooch got started and how they came up with the name

🎷Michael’s ideal practice routine

🎷Collaborating with Leo P 

🎷 and much more!

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Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site: https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Our special guest for this episode is Paul Winter, best known for his environmental work, and his concerts with the Paul Winter Consort.

From the early days of Paul Winter’s college jazz sextet, which toured 23 countries of Latin America for the State Department and performed the first-ever jazz concert at the White House for the Kennedys in 1962, to his later ensemble, the Paul Winter Consort, his concert tours and recording expeditions have taken him to 52 countries and to wilderness areas on six continents, where he has traveled on rafts, dog sleds, mules, kayaks, tug-boats and Land Rovers. He has recorded over 50 albums, of which seven have been honored with Grammy Awards.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

🎷 Jimmy Heath’s influence on Paul

🎷 Whale sounds and Charlie Parker; what they have in common

🎷 What it was like attending Duke Ellington’s funeral

🎷How he got involved with 'Winter Solstice'

🎷How adventures in SoundPlay started

🎷And MUCH more!

All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site: https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Matthew Alec is a jazz and popular music saxophonist, founder and Executive Producer at Cleveland Time Records, and bandleader for the high-energy jazz fusion group Matthew Alec and The Soul Electric.

His debut album Cleveland Time featuring former Saturday Night Live Musical Director Tom “Bones” Malone was released in February of 2021.

The album charted for several weeks on the NACC Jazz Radio Chart, peaking at #13, and received international press from Jazziz Magazine, All About Jazz, JazzMonthly.com, SoulTracks.com, Broadway World, WBSS Media, Glide Magazine, and many others.

His hard bop blues composition “Blues for McCoy” from the album was a Semi-Finalist in the International Songwriting Competition and was one of All About Jazz’s most “Popular Jazz Songs” for 2021.

His 2nd album Live at the Bop Stop! (which also features Malone) is due out in December of 2022.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Matthew is proudly sponsored by DeJacques saxophone straps and Remic Microphones.

We talked about:

🎷 Matthew’s practice routine

🎷 How Michael Brecker became his new hero

🎷 How he approaches working on altissimo & his altissimo fingerings for Urgent

🎷His approach when playing tribute or cover bands

🎷Advice from Joe Lovano

🎷And MUCH more!

All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site: https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Donna Schwartz spoke with Classical & Jazz Saxophonist, Educator, Greg Banaszak.

Greg Banaszak is one of the most sought after orchestral saxophone soloists of his generation.

As one of the few saxophonists active in both the classical and jazz mediums, he includes a combination of concerto performances, solo and chamber music recitals, and jazz festival appearances.

He has presented recitals in such prestigious concert halls as Vienna’s Bösendorfer Concert Hall, the Royal Palace in Warsaw, Poland, and New York’s Lincoln Center’s Bruno Walter Hall.

He has presented master classes at Austria’s Musik Hochschule, the Cairo Conservatory, Oberlin Conservatory, and the Tanglewood Institute and has served as Orchestral saxophonist for the leading opera orchestras of Warsaw, Berlin, Paris, and Cleveland.

Banaszak was the first saxophone concerto soloist to appear with orchestras in India, the Middle East and Korea, including performances with the Symphony Orchestra India, the Cairo Symphony and the Taegu City Symphony.

Banaszak’s critically acclaimed CDs, “The Music of Alan Hovhaness” “Duo Concertos for Alto Saxophone, Flute, and Orchestra”, “Romances for Saxophone and Orchestra” and “Saxophone Concertos”, are available on the Naxos and Centaur Records label.

Banaszak recently recorded “I’ll Remember April…Bird with Strings Revisited”, a CD of the renowned recording of Charlie Parker with Orchestra.

He serves on the faculties of the Cleveland Institute of Music, and Case Western Reserve University.

He is a Vandoren Performing Artist, Selmer Saxophone clinician, a Rovner Products and DeJacques consultant.

He has performed as a saxophonist for the Cleveland Orchestra.

He studied with such prominent masters as Vincent Abato and jazz legend Jackie McLean.

Banaszak’s former students currently hold positions as both highly acclaimed performers and educators throughout the United States and abroad.

In 2021, Banaszak was recently honored with the “Distinguished Alumni of the Year” award from the Hartt School of Music /University of Hartford.

Banaszak takes great pride in educating the future generation of world-class saxophonists and young artists.

Hailed as a Saxophonist “Tour de Force” by the New York Times, Mr. Banaszak continues to perform worldwide.

The background music for the podcast was Greg performing Laura from the  “Bird with Strings” performance with the Cleveland Pops Orchestra and Maestro Carl Topilow, Conductor, Live at Severance Hall, on February 9, 2007.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about: 🎷 The Charlie Parker Know the Legends Project & some incredible stories most people do not know 🎷 How Greg did the research for this monumental project    🎷 How Art Tatum influenced Charlie Parker’s approach to playing 🎷 Great stories about Former President Bill Clinton, Jackie MacLean and others  🎷 Greg’s own practicing routine, and how he keeps his jazz and classical chops in shape 🎷 And MUCH more!

All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site: https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Marco Pignataro is a multi-talented saxophone player, composer, and educator originally from Bologna, Italy.

He is currently the Managing Director of Berklee Global Jazz Institute.

He has shared stages with artists such as Eddie Gomez, Joanne Brackeen, Danilo Pérez, George Garzone, and Terri Lyne Carrington, among many others.

Pignataro performs and tours internationally with several musical groups, including the Marco Pignataro Almas Antiguas Quartet and the Eddie Gomez Quintet.

He released 2 CD’s recently -Awakenings, which is under consideration for a vocal Grammy, and Chant for Our Planet, a Tallberg Foundation supported project to address climate change.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

🎷 His newest project, Chant for Our Planet

🎷 His approach to composing; before the Awakenings project and afterwards   

🎷 Comprovisation; how that approach was used for his piece, On Irene’s Path

🎷 Which process would be best for students to experience first when learning music 

🎷 How 1 person’s observation from his website inspired a new album and play

🎷 And MUCH more!

You can catch a behind-the-scenes Bonus conversation from this episode, plus the searchable transcript of this video, tons of Bonus videos from our previous guests, and so much more when you become a Patron!

For as little as 2 a month, you can help keep this great show going!

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Odisei Music is a Spanish company based in Barcelona founded by Ramon Mañas (CEO).

Their story began 5 years ago when Ramon was studying music in Berlin.

At that time, he was sharing a small flat with 2 other musicians and began learning how to play the saxophone.

From that point, they have been obsessed with creating the smallest and lightest electronic saxophone in the world, to help saxophonists practice and play silently when and wherever they want without disturbing others.

That event generated what is today the main mission of Odisei Music.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

🎷 How his practicing struggles influenced the creation of the Travel Sax

🎷 The goal behind the Travel Sax

🎷 The many uses for the Travel Sax

🎷 We checked out the case and mouthpiece for the Travel Sax 

🎷 How to use Travel Sax as a performing tool

🎷 And MUCH more!

You can catch Donna’s demo of the Travel Sax, plus a searchable transcript of this video, tons of Bonus video from our previous guests, and so much more when you become a Patron!

For as little as 2 a month, you can help keep this great show going!

Just go to www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to subscribe.

In this episode from the NAMM Show in June, Donna Schwartz spoke with musician and the founder of Victory Musical Instruments, parent company of The Growling Sax, Melvin Quinones.

Melvin Quinones is a Hispanic American entrepreneur, engineer, musician and the founder of Victory Musical Instruments, parent company of The Growling Sax.

With over 30+ years of professional music experience combined with 20 years of engineering background, he integrated many of the technologies and processes that have made the pioneers of the music industry successful with new technology, improved materials and ergonomics.

Melvin has over 30 years of experience as a saxophonist, keyboardist and record producer. Some of his relevant work includes 248th Army Band, Thalia, Tiziano Ferro, Frankie J, MDO, Daddy Yankee, Don Omar, Objetivo Fama & Miss Universe 2005 among many others.

He also ran the My Sax Talk social network for 10 years.

He is also the founder of Dance like David LLC, a faith-focused foundation created to provide musician instruments and educational resources to communities with low financial resources.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

🎷 History of Victory Musical Instruments & Melvin’s background

🎷 How the name Growling Sax was created

🎷 How the Growling Saxes are different than other brands 

🎷 How his background in engineering & moderating Sax Talk influenced the Growling Sax

🎷 Differences between Sterling Silver necks and other finishes 

🎷 And MUCH more!

If you want the searchable transcript for this episode, plus TONS of other bonus content from many of our 149 episodes, head on over to our PATREON SITE.

Not only will you be getting awesome content, but you will be helping support the show!

I spoke with Robert Schuenemann, Representative, Endorsee and Artist for Chateau Musical Instruments.

These saxophones were the talk of the show!

You’ll want to check out the video for this episode, so you can see the beautiful hand-painted tenor and alto saxes.

Chateau Musical Instruments was founded in 1979, making quality saxophones, and since 2001 also making woodwind and brass instruments.

We dove deep into many of the saxophone models in this episode.

Chateau Saxophones come in the student model Series 22, all the way up to Series 90 and 96 top of the line models.

We also talked about the history of the Chateau company, and Robert’s thoughts on saxophone tone and intonation.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, Bonus videos and searchable transcripts, and get access to the episodes earlier than everyone else? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

This week’s episode from the NAMM Show features a personal friend of mine, Jim Scimonetti.

Those of us that live near Los Angeles know how much of a monster player he is on all the woodwinds.

He owned a music store and repair shop in Lancaster, CA for many years, and has been performing professionally for almost 50 years.

For the past few years, he has been working with Beechler & ARB Mouthpieces, in Northridge, CA.

Founded by Elmer Beechler in 1942, Beechler Mouthpieces design, manufacture, and distribute outstanding saxophone and clarinet mouthpieces and woodwind accessories.

Remlé Musical Products, Inc. has been under the direction of Elmer Beechler’s daughter, Judy Beechler Roan, since 1993.

All of their mouthpieces are made according to precise design specifications.

All surfaces are hand finished by skilled artisans and play tested by professional musicians.

Beechler Mouthpieces can also make custom mouthpieces to suit individual preferences.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• the latest Beechler mouthpieces for clarinet and saxophones

• What makes Beechler different than most other companies

• Funny story about where REMLE came from

• a little Beechler history

• a fun demo of slap tonguing by Jim

• and more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, Bonus videos and searchable transcripts, and get access to the episodes earlier than everyone else? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

This was a super-fun interview with 2 people at the top of their game in music.

Mindi Abair has performed with Aerosmith, the Boneshakers and was the saxophonist on American Idol a few years ago.

You can read more of her Bio on her site below.

Theo Wanne has been studying and designing mouthpieces for many years, and some of the world’s greatest saxophonists play his mouthpieces.

When I was walking the floors of the NAMM Show, I caught part of Mindi Abair’s performance of her new single, Forever, at the Theo Wanne mouthpiece booth.

Theo designed not 1, but 2 mouthpieces for her.

The link to their full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In today’s episode, you get to hear some stories about that process, along with:

🎷Making great music vs okay music

🎷 Mindi’s tip for how to approach playing a powerful mouthpiece - this is GOLD!

🎷The real goal of choosing a mouthpiece - advice from Theo Wanne

🎷The real goal of choosing a mouthpiece - advice from Theo Wanne

🎷The “Mindi Effect”

🎷How to add more resistance to your mouthpiece in a healthy way - tip from Theo

🎷and more

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, Bonus videos and searchable transcripts, and get access to the episodes earlier than everyone else? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

Mauro Di Gioia is an entrepreneur, free-lance saxophonist/woodwind player, and the founder and President of ReedGeek, Inc. (which manufactures ReedGeek Products) based in Carson City, Nevada.

For many years Mauro has dedicated his time to the betterment of reeds and reed performance for all woodwind players: publishing several articles on reed acoustics and adjustment in leading industry magazines and guest lecturing for master classes at various colleges in the United States and abroad.

Mauro has also worked with and designed reed cuts for some of the greatest players in the world, including David Sanborn.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• 1st thing you should do with a new cane reed
• Adjust the heart of the reed or no?
• Difference between French cut & American cut reeds
• Can you use ReedGeek on Legere Reeds?
• The Geeklet
• Can you bring the ReedGeek on a plane?
• The new Chromium Klangbogen & science behind them
• And more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, Bonus videos and searchable transcripts, and get access to the episodes earlier than everyone else? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

Rovner Products started as primarily a ligature company, but over the years has expanded into mouthpieces and elegant saxophone stands.

With the Rovner Deep-V Mouthpiece Collection, there are 2 offerings: the Avatar and the Aviva.

Through extensive mouthpiece innovation, these pieces look and play like nothing you’ve seen before, with the main focus being on “presence”.

As their motto says, you supply the character, we supply the core!

The link to the full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

At the NAMM Show 2022, we talked about:

• The innovative Deep-V Collection of mouthpieces
• What makes the Avatar and Aviva mouthpieces so unique
• Two important qualities to look for in mouthpieces
• How the Clearly Elegant Sax Stands feature your saxes in a small space
• and more! 

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

Originally from Houston, Texas, Jason Whitmore has been a resident of San Diego since 1996.

As a graduate from the University of Houston with a degree in Saxophone Performance, Jason holds a deep appreciation for live performance that spans across all genres of music.

Jason has been performing professionally in a broad range of musical settings since the early 2000’s.

He regularly performs house and all forms of electronic dance music. Live and records with top DJs and producers from all over the country.

Whether it is at an intimate dance club or large music festival, Jason brings a unique element to dance music that is a different experience every time.

Jason is endorsed by Theo Wanne Mouthpieces, Cannonball Musical Instruments, Legere Reeds, CloudVocal, and Jerry Harvey Audio.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We spoke about:

• How Jason developed the Legere American Cut reeds
• The differences between the Theo Wanne Durga 4 and 5
• The new horn brand he uses
• Dealing with the pressure of playing anthems in front of tens of thousands of people
• Why and when to use in-ear monitors
• And more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

Here’s a little background on SYOS Mouthpieces…

SYOS, which stands for Shape Your Own Sound, mouthpieces was founded by Pauline Eveno, a musician with a PhD in Acoustics.

In 2015, she printed the first mouthpieces and some famous French saxophone players were using them.

SYOS constantly incorporates feedback from musicians to improve their mouthpieces.

And they have an innovative process, with extensive questions to help you design your own mouthpiece.

You can hear more how she started the company in Episode 59 of our show – the link will be in the show notes.

SYOS Ambassadors include Godwin Louie, Tivon Pennicott, Michael Wilbur, Scott Page, Sarah Dunbar, Mariela Versola, Scott Paddock and many others.

For more information on these mouthpieces, and to design your own mouthpiece, you can visit their FAQ page on their website,  https://www.syos.co/.

Maxime Carron, whom I spoke with at NAMM, started working with Pauline in 2016. He is the Co-Founder & Technical Director of SYOS.

He has an extensive background in research in Cognitive Sciences and Sound Design.

The link to their full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We spoke about:

• SYOS’s new line of saxophone mouthpieces
• The new material & new colors available
• How you can get a customized mouthpiece
• Their new line of reeds
• And More!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

This week, a podcast favorite stopped by the Legere Booth at the NAMM Show 2022.

Donna spoke with saxophonist, Matt Lee, who now has a new single, Panama City Groove, which is streaming now.

His prior single, One More Kiss, was #1 for 7 consecutive weeks in the Groove Jazz charts.

Matt also has a new program, Sax Coach, to help other saxophonists release their own single.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• The story behind Matt releasing his first song
• The 3 things you MUST have when it comes to releasing music
• Matt’s new offering on his website for those wanting to release their 1st single
• How Matt’s allergies and asthma impact his saxophone playing
• and more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

Danielle Walker has been playing saxophones since age 11.

She performed in all ensembles offered at her school, and at age 16, was the youngest and only female member of the group, The Jekyll Island Big Band.

In 1998, as a sophomore at Brevard College, she was featured on the baritone sax with that college’s Summer Jazz Workshop Faculty Band. The band was featured on National Public Radio, hosted by Branford Marsalis.

In September 2004, she joined the cast of the Historic Savannah Theater in Savannah, GA, and has performed 4000 shows over the years.

Danielle has performed on all saxophones, plus other woodwinds, percussion, and has also acted in major roles on stage.

Danielle is endorsed by Legere Reeds, Rovner Products and Sax Dakota.

She has been working with Jody Espina, Founder of JodyJazz Mouthpieces since 2013.

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

🎷How Danielle met Jody Espina

🎷Features of the JodyJazz SuperJet mouthpiece

🎷Her approach to playing Legere Reeds & when to change reeds

🎷Life as a musician in the pit 

🎷How she avoids burnout 

🎷Her approach on playing popular recorded solos

🎷The mouthpiece switch that no one expected during COVID

🎷And more!

Wanna support the show?

Become a Patron, and for as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

In our 6th interview from the NAMM Show 2022, Donna interviewed Joel Pekin and Bob Sheppard, from Retro Revival.

The Retro Revival company is known for their vintage replica mouthpieces, and are committed to making mouthpiece dreams come true by making exact Replicas of the classic mouthpieces from the Golden years, from the highest quality materials, and the finest hand craftsmanship.

Joel Peskin, CEO of Retro Revival and multi-instrumentalist, is also known as iReedMan, and has performed with such diverse artists as Barbra Streisand, the Beach Boys, Albert Collins, Johnny Otis, Frank Zappa, and others.

He’s been on hundreds of studio sessions, and in the early 1980’s played the alto sax solo on the theme song for Entertainment Tonight.

Bob Sheppard, Artistic Director of Retro Revival and also a multi-woodwind instrumentalist, has performed with Herbie Hancock, Billy Childs, Peter Erskine, Steely Dan, Freddie Hubbard, Chick Corea and others.

Bob has also been on hundreds of studio sessions as well, and is on the faculty of USC Thornton School of Music.

They just came out with their new Tru Six Saxophone.

The link to their full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

🎷What’s special about the new Retro Revival TRU Six Saxophone

🎷 How they improved typical Mark VI intonation problems

🎷 Bob Sheppard demonstrating dynamics

🎷 Ken Beason’s “recipe for Brass”

🎷 Impromptu Jam with Bob & Joel on Tenor Madness

🎷 How Retro Revival started

🎷 Comparison of old mouthpieces and new mouthpieces & how the Masters dealt with it

🎷 And so much more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

The saxophone and jazz communities suffered a HUGE loss on July 21, 2022.

Tim Price, a phenomenal woodwind artist and educator, who has been featured many times on this Podcast in recent years, passed away on that date.

He had been suffering from a brain tumor for many months.

I had been reading Tim’s articles in the Saxophone Journal for many years, and had gotten to know him over the last 7 years while we met up at the NAMM Show every year in Anaheim, CA.

We jammed together, and often talked about teaching and the state of affairs in jazz music at that time.

Tim’s passing is a HUGE loss for the saxophone and jazz communities.

He would often share his knowledge and teachings on the web over the past few decades.

In 2016, for my (now defunct) BAM Radio Show, I had the honor and pleasure of chatting with Tim Price, world-renowned saxophonist.

The link to the full tribute episode, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• 🎷How Tim learned how to improvise “BA”
• 🎷How he taught his beginner jazz students how to improvise
• 🎷How to imagine the sound & learn language inflection
• 🎷Getting a pocket
• 🎷Who Tim recommends to listen to for listening assignments
• 🎷Tone advice for Band Directors to improve their students’ saxophone tone (and beginning saxophone players too!)
• 🎷How to fatten up your sound
• 🎷 Playing in a saxophone section in jazz band
• 🎷And more!

Jody Espina is the founder, president, owner, and designer of JodyJazz Saxophone & Clarinet Mouthpieces.

In 2018, JodyJazz acquired Chedeville and Espina and redesigned the entire line of Clarinet and Saxophone Mouthpieces while using all of the best elements of Chedeville’s glorious past mouthpieces.

In 2020, JodyJazz Acquired the famous Rousseau Music Products.

Jody Espina is a highly regarded jazz saxophonist, clarinetist, and flutist with a unique and personal sound and is also a respected jazz educator.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

🎷 Introducing the new Hand-Hammered Rose Gold Saxophone Mouthpiece

🎷 New Hand-Hammered Power Ring

🎷 New additions to the Rousseau line for Classical saxophonists

🎷 New HR Custom Dark Baritone Saxophone mouthpiece 

🎷 New Saxophonists; which is the best all-around mouthpiece 

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

In this episode, I interviewed Four time Grammy® Award-nominee, world-renowned jazz organist and Saxophonist, Joey DeFrancesco.

He has more than 30 recordings as a leader under his belt, and has recorded and/or toured with his own groups as well as numerous renowned artists that include Ray Charles, Van Morrison, Diana Krall, Nancy Wilson, David Sanborn and many more.

DeFrancesco has received countless Jazz Journalist Association awards and other accolades worldwide, including being inducted into the inaugural Hammond Organ Hall of Fame in 2014, the Philadelphia Music Walk of Fame in 2016 as well as topping the Critics Polls in DownBeat Magazine eleven times over the past fifteen years and the Readers Polls every year since 2005.

DeFrancesco also hosts a weekly program on SiriusXM Radio’s Real Jazz channel titled “Organized.”

More Music, due out September 24, via Mack Avenue Records, is “more” in every conceivable way. It offers up ten new DeFrancesco originals, brought to life by a scintillating new trio. And the master organist, who has long supplemented his keyboard virtuoso with his skilled trumpet playing, here brings out his full arsenal: organ, keyboard, piano, trumpet, and, for the first time on record, tenor saxophone.

DeFrancesco is endorsed by Jody Jazz.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

All of the Live at NAMM Show 2022 episodes are sponsored by Legere Reeds

We talked about:

• the New hand-hammered JodyJazz mouthpieces and ligatures
• upcoming projects
• and more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

Jeff Antoniuk has such an interesting background, having been born in Canada, and growing up in Nigeria.

He’s performed with Tim Hagans, Sherrie Maricle, Ingrid Jensen, Walt Weiskopf and Marcus Miller. He has fronted his own bands as a performer and composer, winning accolades from JazzTimes Magazine.

Jeff is a well-respected educator, and currently is the Founder and Director of JazzWire, an online service that offers lessons and community for adult jazz students.

He started the Maryland Summer Jazz Camp 19 years ago, now called the JazzWire Jazz Summer Summit and now available not only in-person, but online as well at https://jazzwiresummit.com/

The last time I spoke Jeff was also at the NAMM Show 2020, right before COVID shut everything down.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

This is the 3rd episode in our Live at NAMM 2022 Show series. NAMM stands for National Association of Music Merchants, and they usually have 2 large shows/conventions every year. This year was just once in Anaheim CA in June.

All of the NAMM Show 2022 episodes are sponsored by Legere Reeds, and today’s guest recently made the switch to Legere Reeds.

In this episode, we talked about:

🎷How Jeff made the switch to Legere Reeds

🎷The tip he shares to soften a Legere Reed

🎷How ReedGeek’s tool can help alter a Legere Reed

🎷Jeff’s everyday ritual 😂 

🎷What Jeff did during COVID that has benefitted his community now

🎷JazzWire Jazz  Summer Summit 

🎷The Tool, JackTrip, and how Jeff is integrating it into JazzWire

🎷How technology will expand in 2, 5 years and how to embrace it

🎷What’s coming up in 2022 for Jeff

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

In this episode, I interviewed classical saxophonist, Chika Inoue.

Chika has been a guest on our show before – links to those episodes are in the show notes below.

Chika has performed with Los Angeles Philharmonic, Brooklyn Metro Chamber Orchestra, and many other orchestras in the United States, as well as internationally at Festivals in Germany, Spain, Japan, Italy and China.

A native of Osaka, Japan, Chika spent most of her youth in Frankfurt, Germany and San Diego, California.

Chika actively looks beyond the standard saxophone repertoire for works that allow the saxophone to shine, continuously transcribing and performing works of violin, clarinet, oboe, flute, voice and piano, expanding the limits of the saxophone technique and artistry.

She is a Conn-Selmer, Vandoren, KeyLeaves and LefreQue endorsing artist.

The last time I spoke with Chika was at the NAMM Show 2020, right before COVID shut everything down.

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

🎷 Her brand new California State University Summer Arts program: "The Art of Classical Saxophone"

🎷 Equipment that she uses, and a recent change

🎷 She modeled the Breathtaking Neck Strap

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

In early June, I attended the NAMM Show in Anaheim CA. NAMM stands for National Association of Music Merchants, an organization started in 1901 for companies in the music industry to connect, network and further their businesses.

Music companies often show off their latest products, and endorsed artists appear, sometimes giving impromptu concerts right on the convention floor.

It’s an exciting show – there are so many things going on at once.

Who can attend?

Music industry executives, companies, Artists who are endorsed by companies, and Music educators are the main attendees, but NAMM does allow the general public to attend. It is not free and ticket prices have changed.

If you are ever interested in attending in the future, you can go to www.namm.org for more info.

It can get really noisy on the NAMM Show floor, so it was really tricky trying to get decent audio.

You will hear background noise, for sure, as well as trumpeters and saxophonists, feeling the need to test out their extreme high range too.

But I captured some awesome interviews with Mindi Abair & Theo Wanne, Jody Espina and Danielle Walker from JodyJazz, Jason Whitmore, Joel Peskin & Bob Shephard from Retro Revival, Chika Inoue, Jeff Antoniuk, Jason Whitmore,  Rovner Products, SYOS mouthpieces, Beechler mouthpieces, Melvin Quinones from Growling Sax, Ramon Manas from Travel Sax and more!

In this episode, I interviewed Chris Kortschot from Legere.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

All of the NAMM Show 2022 episodes are sponsored by Legere Reeds. (www.legere.com)

We talked about:

🎷Reed strength recommendations

🎷Gerald Albright’s reed strength choices

🎷Rotate or no? That’s the question

🎷1 tip to soften the Legere reed strength

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

Winner of Horn of the Year from the Blues Music Awards in 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2015, Deanna Bogart has been electrifying audiences with her soulful saxophone playing, singing and dazzling keyboards for over 40 years.

She is a bandleader, songwriter, arranger, and produces festivals and other artists.

Deanna is also a sought-after educator/mentor/master classes/creative coach, while nonstop gigging around the globe and playing with stellar musicians everywhere. 

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

🎷 How Donna met Deanna & a funny story at a recent gig

🎷 How the statement, “Girls can’t play the sax” motivated her to prove her teacher wrong

🎷 Tips for leading a band

🎷 How playing sax helped her piano playing and singing

🎷 Deanna’s practice routine and what she does before each show

🎷 How to be confident and play freely

🎷 and more

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

A veteran of the international jazz scene, Max Ionata emerged in the early 90s and has performed with many modern greats including Robin Eubanks, Billy Hart, Joe Locke, Mike Stern, Bob Mintzer and compatriot Stefano Di Battista.

Max sent me his answers in written form, so they were read aloud with the backing music coming from his latest collaboration with Dominik Shurmann, Moons Ago

The link to his full biography, along with the full interview and more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We covered:

🎷 Why he started on soprano saxophone, and not alto saxophone

🎷 The earliest records he listened to that impacted his playing

🎷 How he keeps his tone sounding so full

🎷 1 lesson that Max teaches his students that he feels is mandatory for them to understand

🎷 1 improvisation exercise that he practices frequently

🎷 And much more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

Today’s episode is about playing in military bands…

For this episode, I spoke with Larry Weintraub, saxophonist and clarinetist who has performed with Army and Navy bands from 1978 – 2005.

He was first introduced to military bands by his teacher at the time, Ron Diehl, lead alto player for the US Navy Jazz Commodores.

Since that time, he has traveled and performed all over the world.

Over the years he studied with Al Sigismondi, Edward Palanker, Joe Brisusco, Ron Diehl, Marty Nau, and others. 

He has also taught in public schools, taught saxophone and clarinet in Old Dominion University and received his Master’s in Music Education from the same institution.

He currently teaches and plays gigs on a regular basis. 

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

🎷 The 1 thing in college that shaped his life later on

🎷 How military bootcamp affected his practice and playing

🎷 Which military band is best for you

🎷 The glasses question - something I always wondered about

🎷 What you need BEFORE considering military bands

🎷 And much more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site 

For this episode, I spoke with Steve Goodson, founder of SaxGourmet products and his Nation of Music website, which contains tons of articles and information about all the parts of the saxophone, saxophone design, mouthpieces, key clamps and much more.

His SaxGourmet website has listings of Saxophone Makes and Models and Vintage Saxophone Value Guide. 

Steve has been part of the Music Industry since 1963, having performed all over the world from a very young age all the way up to the year 2003, where he stopped for health reasons.

He still teaches students in his New Orleans studio.

Steve started repairing his own horns in 1964, and over the years, he repaired saxophones for people all over the world, including Michael Brecker and Maceo Parker.

During this time he always thought he could improve on the design, and was inspired to create better saxophones.

That’s when he created his own unique line of horns, the SaxGourmet saxophones.

Musicians such as Tom Scott, Charles Neville, Aviva Maloney, James Martin perform on the Saxgourmet horns. 

You can read more about how he created these horns on his site by clicking the link below under Links.

Steve also is the administrator of many Facebook Discussion groups, such as Saxophone Nation and Saxophone Playing Techniques. A partial listing of those groups is on his SaxGourmet website.

Steve was also a regular contributor to the Saxophone Journal magazine.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• What got him so interested in producing his own necks
• Knowing the difference between necks to create a better one for your horn
• Don’t want the air to resist the energy wave
• How to increase your dynamic range
• Material differences
• What is pull-down, and what to do about it
• When to get another neck

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site 

Grammy nominated saxophonist Tim Armacost has established himself as one of the most distinct saxophone voices on the New York scene today. 

Touring regularly around the world both as a sideman and a leader, Armacost has worked with a phenomenal number of jazz greats, including Al Foster, Jimmy Cobb, Kenny Barron, Tom Harrell, Billy Hart, Victor Lewis, Jeff “Tain” Watts, Peter Erskine, Ray Drummond, Roy Hargrove, Don Friedman and Randy Brecker.

Armacost has recorded 14 critically acclaimed albums as a leader, performed on more than 60 as a sideman, and has recorded over 100 original songs and arrangements. Armacost is a widely respected educator, teaching at the Jamey Aebersold and Stanford Summer Jazz Workshops, at Queens College in New York City and as a clinician at Universities throughout the U.S., Japan and Europe.

Armacost co-leads the New York Standards Quartet,  the Brooklyn Big Band, and In Trio, and is currently working on music for two new projects: a chord-less quartet featuring Gary Smulyan, John Patitucci and Al Foster, and a new quartet with Jim Ridl, Ugonna Okegwo and Rudy Royston.

Tim’s new book, The Jazz Saxophone Book, published by Sher Music, has received wide acclaim from many jazz legends, such as Jamey Aebersold, Bob Mintzer, George Garzone, Jerry Bergonzi and others. This is not just for saxophonists! There’s information and exercises for everyone at all levels of improvising.

We talk extensively about the content in Tim’s book, as well as his thoughts on creating it in this episode. 

Tim Armacost is a D’Addario Recording Artist, playing D’Addario reeds exclusively.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Sher Music

Sher Music Co., are the publishers of Tim Armacost’s “The Jazz Saxophone Book” and over 100 other world-class jazz and Latin Music publications, from authors such as Hal Galper, David Berkman, Rebeca Mauleon, Barry Finnerty, Marc Johnson, Michael Spiro.You will also find the best-selling books by the late Mark Levine, “The Jazz Theory Book” and “The Jazz Piano Book.”

Sher Music started out primarily as a publisher of the ONLY professional-level jazz fakebooks on the market, “The New Real Books” and their quality is still unmatched, as shown by endorsements from Chick Corea, McCoy Tyner, Ron Carter, Maria Schneider, Dave Liebman and many others. One of our newest projects is the Jazz Songbook Series with separate digital-only books of compositions by Kenny Barron, Tom Harrell, Steve Swallow, Kenny Werner and Alan Pasqua, among others.

Legere Reeds!

Legere Reeds produces premium synthetic reeds that sound warm and are consistent for many months.

Aside from the Signature Series, the American Cut is available for Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bari Saxes.

To learn more about why Derek Brown, Gerald Albright, and Eddie Daniels exclusively play Legere, visit www.legere.com

And for a limited time, if you live in the US or Canada, use the code  EVERYTHINGSAX for 10% off at their store at shop.legere.com.

The store is only available to US and Canadian residents.  

We talked about:

• Following your own aesthetic vision
• How Tim warms up
• Tim’s transcription exercise
• Tim’s Inevitable Note Exercise
• How to get out of the improvisation rut
• And much more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

Jamie Anderson has been playing professionally for over 25 years, and is the founder of the online saxophone website, getyoursaxtogether.com.

He has performed at venues like The Blue Note Tokyo, Glastonbury Festival and Munich’s Olympic Stadium with artists such as The Four Tops, Frankie Valli And The Four Seasons, The Temptations, Joan Armatrading,Chaka Khan, the X-Factor TV Big Band and Incognito.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Legere Reeds!

To learn more about why Derek Brown, Gerald Albright, and Eddie Daniels exclusively play Legere, visit www.legere.com

And for a limited time, if you live in the US or Canada, use the code  EVERYTHINGSAX for 10% off at their store at shop.legere.com.

The store is only available to US and Canadian residents.  

We talked about:

• Jamie’s advice on “nailing” a passage
• Jamie’s advice for overriding the crippling feeling of performance anxiety
• How Jamie visualizes working on fast passages
• Dealing with expectations and criticisms
• Why you need a vision for your sound
• and so much more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

Tomplay is an interactive sheet music app which is used by more than one million musicians across 72 countries, and by hundreds of schools and conservatories worldwide. 

The interactive sheet music scrolls automatically on the screen synchronized with high-quality recordings of professional musicians.

Musicians can access a catalog of over 40,000 sheet music arrangements for 26 different instruments in the Tomplay app. 

In this episode, I spoke with a fellow saxophonist, Julia Sprossman.

Being a passionate hobby saxophonist, Julia has enjoyed many years of classical music education. Her next musical goal is to improve her Jazz improvisation skills. 

At TomPlay, Julia is looking after the German and English speaking clients and partner music schools to make sure all musicians have a great experience using Tomplay.

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Legere Reeds!

To learn more about why Derek Brown, Gerald Albright, and Eddie Daniels exclusively play Legere, visit www.legere.com

And for a limited time, if you live in the US or Canada, use the code  EVERYTHINGSAX for 10% off at their store at shop.legere.com.

The store is only available to US and Canadian residents.  

We talked about:

1. How TomPlay was created from a gap in the backing tracks industry
2. Letting the Secret out! (The next version of TomPlay will have this much-requested capability)
3. How TomPlay adapted during the pandemic to create a brand new feature for ensembles
4. Extensive TomPlay app demo and its features
5. How to use TomPlay to transcribe and study others’ solos
6. How to use TomPlay on gigs; creating Setlists and more
7. Special features for Music Teachers and their students
8. How TomPlay can be adapted for special learners

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

Tenor, soprano and alto saxophonist, bandleader and composer, Pernille Bévort is a graduate of the Rhythmic Music Conservatory in Copenhagen, Denmark. After completing her degree, she has become increasingly in-demand as a member of various jazz ensembles in Denmark and Sweden.

Apart from working with small ensembles, Bévort has performed with several professional Big Bands in Denmark during the last decades: The Ernie Wilkins Almost Big Band, Kroner’s New Music Orchestra, The Danish Radio Big Band and the Aarhus Jazz Orchestra (Klüver’s Big Band) among others.

As a frequent substitute, or regular member of, different professional big bands, she has performed with many international artists. Among these are: Randy Brecker, Tony Coe, Putte Wickman, Tim Hagans, John Scofield, Charlie Watts and Richard Bona.

Since 2015 Pernille has been a regular member of the Swedish Monday Night Big Band in Malmö and from 2016 she has been playing several projects with another Swedish Big Band: the Bohuslän Big Band in Göteborg. (One of the last tours with BBB was in oct. 2017 with Maria Schneider).

She is also part of the new Danish 13-piece ensemble Maluba Orchestra with Marilyn Mazur, Fredrik Lundin and Kasper Bai as the 3 co-leaders and composers. The debut album with this group ‘Maluba Orchestra’ won a DMA jazz in 2020 as album of the year.

Since 1995 she has been leader of several diverse ensembles. At present these include her trio, Bévort 3, and the septet Radio Bévort. Pernille Bévort has released 14 albums as band leader (Feb. 2022).

Apart from her own groups, Pernille has composed for several other ensembles such as . Among these are The Copenhagen Art Ensemble, Moving Circles and a variety of ToneArt workshop ensembles (ToneArt is a composer association). 

Right now, she is composing a new tune and arrangement for the Swedish Norrbotten Big Band (a commissioned work).

Pernille Bévort has been awarded the prestigious Ben Webster Prize and the JASA prize (jazz reviewers) in acknowledgement of her work. Furthermore, Pernille has received several composer grants from the Danish Arts Foundation within the last decades.

From 2011 until 2013 she was part of the committee for composer grants in the Danish Arts Foundation (the jury concerning rhythmic composers). April 11th 2021 Pernille Bévort received an honorary award from the Danish Conductors Association (an association of conductors and band leaders).

The album BLIK with Radio Bévort (May 2020) was among the top 10 Danish jazz albums of the year (2020) according to the jury from the Danish jazz magazine Jazzspecial. Oct. 2020 Pernille was also nominated for a Danish Music Awards Jazz as composer of the year with this album. 

Pernille’s trio album ‘On Fire’ with her trio Bévort 3 was nominated for a Danish Music Awards Jazz in the category ‘Album of the Year’ (Oct. 2021).

Her Latest album ‘Bévort 3 Live 2020-2021’ was released Feb. 18th 2022.

The trio is now heading towards ‘Jazz A-Head’ in Bremen, Germany, where they are going to perform a showcase on the Danish Club Night Scene (30. April 2022).

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Legere Reeds!

To learn more about why Derek Brown, Gerald Albright, and Eddie Daniels exclusively play Legere, visit www.legere.com

And for a limited time, if you live in the US or Canada, use the code  EVERYTHINGSAX for 10% off at their store at shop.legere.com.

The store is only available to US and Canadian residents.  

• People that inspired her the most
• Conceiving your saxophone sound
• How to be in the moment when performing
• Keeping technique on point
• How she manages practice time
• Her role in a Septet vs Trio
• Finding your own voice 
• and more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site.

Paul Cohen is one of America’s most sought-after saxophonists for orchestral and chamber concerts and solo recitals. 

Dr. Paul Cohen has rediscovered and performed lost saxophone literature, including works for saxophone and orchestra by Loeffler, Florio and Dahl as well as chamber works by Grainger, Ornstein, Sousa, Cowell, Siegmeister, and Loeffler. 

He has published more than one hundred articles on the history and literature of the saxophone in the Saxophone Journal, Instrumentalist, CBDNA Notes, Clarinet and Saxophone Society Magazine of Great Britain, The Grainger Society Journal, and the Saxophone Symposium.  His seminal column, “Vintage Saxophones Revisited,” was featured in the Saxophone Journal from 1985 – 2002.

Recent CDs include American Landscapes, (American music), Common Ground (chamber music), New York Rising ( American music for saxophone quartet),  Heard Again for the First Time (premiering lost music) and his latest,  Soprano Summit  (soprano saxophone).

Dr. Cohen is currently on the faculties of the Manhattan School of Music, NYU, Columbia University  and Rutgers University.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Legere Reeds!

To learn more about why Derek Brown, Gerald Albright, and Eddie Daniels exclusively play Legere, visit www.legere.com

And for a limited time, if you live in the US or Canada, use the code  EVERYTHINGSAX for 10% off at their store at shop.legere.com.

The store is only available to US and Canadian residents.

We talked about:

• How Paul finds vintage horns (this was before the internet!)
• How the tonal qualities of saxophones changed over the years
• Why people play vintage saxophones
•  His reed strength choice for certain vintage saxes
• and more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site

Paul Cohen is one of America’s most sought-after saxophonists for orchestral and chamber concerts and solo recitals. 

He has appeared as soloist with the San Francisco Symphony, New Jersey Symphony,  and the Charleston Symphony.  

His many solo orchestra performances include works by Debussy, Creston, Ibert, Glazunov, Martin, Loeffler, Husa, Dahl, Still, Villa-Lobos, Tomasi, and Cowell. 

He has also performed with a broad range of orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, Metropolitan Opera (NYC), American Symphony Orchestra, New Jersey Symphony, San Diego Symphony, and the Cleveland Orchestra.

Recent CDs include American Landscapes, (American music), Common Ground (chamber music), New York Rising ( American music for saxophone quartet),  Heard Again for the First Time (premiering lost music) and his latest,  Soprano Summit  (soprano saxophone).

Dr. Cohen is currently on the faculties of the Manhattan School of Music, NYU, Columbia University  and Rutgers University.

The opening music was Feathers and Sax, by Amanda Harberg, and the outro music was Lesson from the Sky, by Rodney Rogers, both from his latest CD, Soprano Summit.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Legere Reeds!

To learn more about why Derek Brown, Gerald Albright, and Eddie Daniels exclusively play Legere, visit www.legere.com

And for a limited time, if you live in the US or Canada, use the code  EVERYTHINGSAX for 10% off at their store at shop.legere.com.

The store is only available to US and Canadian residents.  

We talked about:

• Why saxophone became the perfect instrument of choice for him
• Listening to Paul Desmond and playing by ear
• How the skill set of today's generation changed
• Saxophone virtuosos students should listen to
• Developing musicianship
• Exploring other types of saxophones
• His new 'Soprano Summit' album and his approach on recording new music

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site

London-born saxophonist Alex Hitchcock is regarded as one of the UK’s most virtuosic young jazz musicians. His group AuB, which released its debut album on Edition Records in 2020, was described as ‘ready to make cataclysmic waves in the sound of UK jazz’ by Jazzwise.

His quintet’s critically acclaimed 2018 debut on Barcelona-based label Fresh Sound New Talent (home to debuts by artists including Ambrose Akinmusire and Avishai Cohen) was described by All About Jazz as ‘an exquisitely subtle collection of tunes… the clearest indicator to date of the stratospheric trajectory on which this super-talented quintet is indubitably heading’. 

Their increasingly burgeoning reputation on the international jazz stage was confirmed by a major prize at the 2018 Umbria Jazz Festival, as well as touring to Poland, Spain, Italy and Hungary and performances at legendary UK venues including Love Supreme Festival, the Royal Albert Hall and Ronnie Scott’s.

Named in 2018 and 2019 as ‘one to watch’ by Jazzwise magazine, he has performed with Chris Cheek, Soweto Kinch, Mark Lockheart, Nérija, Andrew McCormack, Ashley Henry, Maria Chiara Argirò, legendary American group the Blackbyrds, and Turner Prize-nominated artist Marvin Gaye Chetwynd.

Performing highlights include North Sea Jazz Festival (Netherlands), Jazz à Vienne (France), Fano Jazz Festival (Italy), Festival Mas i Mas (Spain) and Glastonbury Festival (UK) as well as at the Barbican, Cadogan Hall, and Glyndebourne Opera House.

His latest project, Dream Band, pulled  together a pool of 15 musicians from both sides of the Atlantic to bring to life a set of forward-thinking music. 

The music was recorded across three London studio sessions in Spring 2021, with a different configuration of musicians each day. The result is a selection of 12 original songs ranging from a delicate duo (featuring the sensational Midori Jaeger on cello & vocals) through to an expansive 7-piece outing with guest stars Chris Cheek and David Adewumi.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Our sponsor for this episode is:

Legere Reeds!

To learn more about why Derek Brown, Gerald Albright, and Eddie Daniels exclusively play Legere, visit www.legere.com

And for a limited time, if you live in the US or Canada, use the code  EVERYTHINGSAX for 10% off at their store at shop.legere.com.

The store is only available to US and Canadian residents.

We talked about:

• Tone matching concept and process
• Practicing proactively instead of reactively
• What he meant by 'singing through the horn'
• How his undergrad influenced his storytelling when it comes to playing
• His approach to improvisation & writing
• and so much more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site

Matt Stohrer has been repairing, selling, and trading saxophones for a long time. He takes pride in his work, and cares deeply about what he does.

He learned his craft in New York City, working for Sam Ash Music on the famed Music Row, 48th St. in Times Square, Manhattan where he started as a coffee-running apprentice and worked his way up to Head Woodwind Repairman of their flagship store. 

After working for Sam Ash, he opened a small saxophone specialty shop in Brooklyn, where he repaired many horns to exacting standards for the best and brightest of New York’s saxophone crowd and also bought and sold vintage horns and mouthpieces.  He had a view of the Manhattan skyline from his roof in an old warehouse by the Gowanus canal, and was busier than ever.

But something was missing- personal space, clean air, a yard for my kids, a place to work on my car, seeing the stars at night, space for some hobbies.  So one day in 2010,  he picked up and moved to beautiful North Carolina, where he found a cozy and warm house in the woods between Durham and Hillsborough. Here, he continues to grow his business, learn new things and perfect his craft.

As a repairman, I service all saxophones (and only saxophones), with my specialty being high end, vintage and unusual saxophones done well for picky players. 

He remains a small, one-man business repairing and selling saxophones. He is committed to his ideals,  and doubts he will ever grow much beyond a one-man shop.  Personal interaction and customer relationships built on shared love of the saxophone are paramount, and advice will always be free.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Our sponsor for this episode is:

Legere Reeds!

To learn more about why Derek Brown, Gerald Albright, and Eddie Daniels exclusively play Legere, visit www.legere.com

And for a limited time, if you live in the US or Canada, use the code  EVERYTHINGSAX for 10% off at their store at shop.legere.com.

The store is only available to US and Canadian residents.  

We talked about:

• Working with vintage horns
•  The TRUTH about what relacquering does to your saxophone
• Overhauling a Saxophone
• Advise on buying instruments online
• Tips for people with little to no access on repair shops and tools
• and Much more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site

Born and raised in Lima, Perú, Lucia Sarmiento has been influenced by classic jazz players like Sonny Rollins and John Coltrane, as well as modern players such as Chris Potter and Michael Brecker. 

After graduating high school, Lucia moved to Buenos Aires, Argentina to study at the Conservatorio Manuel de Falla, where she studied jazz performance. 

Wanting to fulfill her lifelong dream of learning jazz music from its origins and pursuing a music career in the United States, Lucia moved to Minneapolis, MN after winning the Women in Music scholarship at McNally Smith College of Music in 2013. She studied there with Pete Whitman, graduating in 2017 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Saxophone Performance.

During her first years in Minneapolis, Lucia was mentored by Eric Kamau Gravatt (Drummer for Weather Report, McCoy Tyner, Joe Henderson) as a permanent member of his Jazz Quintet, Source Code. 

In 2016, she joined funk/fusion band New Sound Underground, with whom she has played countless shows around the country.

In recent years, Lucia has gained a massive social media following posting videos showing her charisma and skills as a saxophone and EWI player. 

Lucia has worked as an ambassador for brands like Yamaha, Akai, BG, Jean-Paul USA, Syos, Key Leaves among others.

Besides performing, Lucia is very passionate about providing affordable and accessible music education in Spanish and English. She regularly posts saxophone/jazz educational videos on her YouTube channel and for the past year, she has built a bilingual community of saxophone players on her Patreon, where she offers private lessons and more in-depth tutorials and practice guides.

In October 2020, Lucia released her first single “Escape” and is currently working on a full original album coming out in 2021.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• How she takes risks and goes all in
• What Lucia identifies as her strengths & weaknesses
• How she adapted to playing a genre she wasn't used to
• Tips on landing that 'big gig'
• Bonus content! What it’s like being a woman on tour with PitBull in Saudi Arabia

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site

Saxophonist & educator, Godwin Louis, was born in Harlem, New York and began playing saxophone at age nine. Godwin grew up in Bridgeport, Connecticut and Port au Prince, Haiti. 

Godwin was a finalist in the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz Saxophone Competition, and has performed all over the world.

He is a graduate of Berklee College of Music and the prestigious Thelonious Monk Institute for Jazz Performance. 

Godwin has studied with and performed with Herbie Hancock, Clark Terry, Roger Dickerson, Ron Carter, Al Foster, Jack Dejohnette, Jimmy Heath, Billy Preston, Patti Labelle, Toni Braxton, Babyface, Madonna, Gloria Estefan, Barry Harris, Howard Shore, David Baker, Mulatu Astakte, Mahmoud Ahmed, Wynton Marsalis, and Terence Blanchard just to name a few.

In addition, Godwin has performed as a sideman, guest soloist and has conducted clinics and master classes worldwide. 

As a composer, Godwin has received the Jerome Foundation Emerging Artist Grant, and the Jazz Gallery’s “New Works Commission”. 

As an educator, humanitarian and ambassador, Godwin has traveled from Benin to China to help promote cross-cultural understanding and introduce thousands to America’s indigenous art form, through public concerts, master classes, and jam sessions. 

He is currently full-time faculty for the Woodwind Department at Berklee College of Music.

Godwin is the founder of Experience Ayiti, a nonprofit educational, multidisciplinary arts organization. 

Godwin’s debut album as a leader, entitled “Global”, was released in February 2019.

(The intro music for the podcast is his composition, Thoughts and Prayers, from his album, Global.)   

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• Single vs. double lip embouchure
• How Solfege shaped his understanding of music & helped his improvisation
• What Godwin thinks about when improvising
• and more

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site 

Saxophonist and mouthpiece creator, Matt Lee uncovered his passion for music when his grandmother bought him his 1st alto saxophone. 

From that point, he knew he found his calling. 

Matt followed his dream from California to Nevada, and writes most of his own music and produces from Las Vegas. 

He is a self taught saxophonist with no formal training, learning how to play by ear from listening to his favorite artists, and being inspired by everything around him.

His musical influences stem from Curtis Mayfield, James Brown, Al Jarreau to Grover Washington Jr. 

He started WestCoast Sax in 2014. It brings him a lot of joy in making Mouthpieces for artists to help find their sound and make playing a little easier. 

WestCoastSax Artists are Boney James, Euge Groove, Jackiem Joyner, Dean James, Will Donato, MO Louis, Chris Godber and many more.

The opening segment of the podcast was from his new single release, One More Kiss.

His new EP will be out next year, which will include his recent release, One More Kiss. Three of his songs are available now everywhere you hear music on digital platforms.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• How he went from being totally self-taught on saxophones to performing, mixing and mastering his own songs
• The surprise gig he landed from opening up for (Jefferson) Starship
• Smoking cigars with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger
• How being a Respiratory Therapist during COVID influenced his music
• Matt’s advice for knowing your limits
• EXCLUSIVE!; A private tour of Matt’s recording studio and equipment
• How Matt records high quality video & audio 
• and more

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site

Saxophonist, composer and author Walt Weiskopf began his New York career performing with the Buddy Rich Big Band in 1981 at the age of 21. 

Since then, he has made an impressive mark as both a leader and sideman with over 20 critically acclaimed CDs and countless sideman credits, including performing and recording with Frank Sinatra, Steely Dan, Donald Fagen, Frank Sinatra, Michael McDonald, Boz Scaggs and others. 

A dynamic player with enormous technical prowess, Walt is equally well regarded as a composer and his CDs contain predominantly original work. 

His books on jazz improvisation, such as  Beyond the Horn, Around the Horn, Understanding the Diminished Scale, The Augmented Scale in Jazz, 16 Moderately Challenging Jazz Solos and Intervallic Improvisation are among the most respected in the field. 

His new release, Introspection, will be out in mid October 2021.

(For the podcast, the opening segment was from Walt’s tune, Backstage Blues from his release, Fountain of Youth.)

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• Influence of playing clarinet and classical music into his technique
• How Walt uses theory for improvisation
• How the pandemic allowed him to pursue a passion project 
• What it's like working with Steely Dan
• His approach to short solos & big band solos
• Walt's upcoming album

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts? All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming. If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our PATREON site

This episode is super special because I have not just 1, but 2 guests with me.

My first guest is Stefano Bedetti, the Italian saxophone phenom. 

(At the beginning of this episode, you heard an excerpt of him playing Shiny Stocking.)

Stefano is a self-taught musician who began to play tenor saxophone at the age of 14.

He discovered jazz listening to the records of Charlie Parker, Michael Brecker, John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gordon, Joe Henderson, Cannonball Adderley, Hank Mobley, Sonny Stitt, and all the other great cats of that era.

At the age of 19, Giulio Capiozzo (famous Italian drummer, and cofounder of the well-known group Area) was the first to notice his talent and invite Stefano to his group.

Stefano’s spontaneous way of playing, along with his huge sound, great technic, and melodic & harmonic articulations, have garnered him the attention of some of the big names in jazz music.  

Over the course of his career, Stefano has performed with many jazz stars including Billy Hart, Ed Howard, Victor Lewis, George Cables, Jimmy Howens, Dave Stryker, John Riley, Tony Scott, Adam Nussbaum, John Patitucci, Antonio Sanchez, and many others.

My second guest is Gary Sugal, who has been manufacturing fine quality custom-made saxophone mouthpieces for more than two and half decades. 

Serving both professional and semi-professional musicians worldwide, Gary Sugal has earned the respect and admiration of some of the top saxophone recording artists around the world for the quality and workmanship of his mouthpieces.

As a professional mouthpiece manufacturer for more than twenty-six years, the Sugal factory has produced more than 14,750 custom-made mouthpieces that are being played worldwide.

It has been Gary’s personal mission to help musicians benefit from the many years of experience Gary has had as a bona-fide mouthpiece manufacturer by producing what many musicians consider the “holy grail” and number one mouthpiece on the planet.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• How Gary's mouthpieces are made, especially the new 3-D Printed Metal mouthpieces
• How Gary was so touched by Stefano's playing, & their new collaboration
• Stefano's non-conventional approach to playing and practicing
• and much more!

Wanna support the show?

Become a Patron, and for as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

Mention the Beets name pretty much anywhere in the world, and any jazz enthusiast in the room will know what you’re talking about: quality, and a strong brand of bop and swing. 

And swing… that’s one thing tenor saxophonist, Alexander ‘The Hurricane’ Beets brings each year to the Amersfoort World Jazz Festival and every festival and show he performs.

His nickname ‘The Hurricane’ comes from his explosive and expressive playing.  

Much like (and with) his brothers, Beets has performed on stages around the world. 

His mix of swing and ballads, standards and originals has swooned audiences from Poland to Thailand and from Canada to India.

As a jazz-saxophone player he gave over 2000 concerts around the world, played on more than 30 CD’s and DVD’s. 

Besides that, he runs Amersfoort World Jazz Festival, curates Leusden Jazz and is one of the founders of World Jazz Network, keeping jazz delegates across the globe connected and improving international mobility for young jazz artists.

Celebrating his personal heroes, Dutch tenor saxophonist Alexander Beets’ newest album, Big Sounds, is a compilation of favorites and a tribute to Gene Ammons, Stanley Turrentine, Ike Quebec and Hank Mobley with legend-inspired originals. 

Try not tapping your foot to the opener Blues for the Legends, with swinging solos by not just Beets himself but also Miles Davis Institute-acknowledged trumpeter, Ellister van der Molen.

The new album is out on Oct. 15, 2021

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Influence of his' musical heroes on his playing
•  What makes him perform with confidence
• How Alexander organizes major jazz festivals
• His upcoming album release, Big Sounds
• and more

Be a Patron!

For as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

One of the most decorated saxophonists of her generation, Nicki Roman, has won prizes at prestigious competitions such as the North American Saxophone Alliance (NASA) Solo Competition, Music Teachers National Association Young Artist Solo Competition, William C. Byrd International Competition, Fischoff, and the Kate Neal Kinley Memorial Fellowship. 

Her latest album, Unquiet Waters, features expressive works from innovative composers that push the boundaries of classical saxophone.

She has been a featured soloist with the Eastman Symphony Orchestra, Eastman Wind Ensemble, UW-Milwaukee Wind Ensemble, Illinois Wind Symphony, University of North Florida Orchestra, and the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra. 

Across North America, Europe, and Asia, Nicki has shared solo and chamber music performances at venues such as the China National Centre for the Performing Arts, Shandong University of the Arts, Zagreb Academy of Music, Krannert Center for Performing Arts, Rio All-Suite Casino in Las Vegas, Brevard Summer Music Festival, and the Zelazo Performing Arts Center. 

She has collaborated on several projects with Hal Leonard Publishing and has premiered over 30 works for her instrument. 

Nicki proudly serves as the Assistant Professor of Saxophone at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She also presents clinics, recitals, and masterclasses at numerous universities throughout the year. 

She received her Doctor of Musical Arts Degree at the Eastman School of Music, and also holds degrees from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of North Florida. 

Her former teachers include Chien-Kwan Lin, Debra Richtmeyer, Dale Underwood, Michael Bovenzi, and Bunky Green. 

Nicki is a Conn-Selmer and Vandoren artist, as well as a member of NASA’s Committee on the Status of Women.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• Articulation & the biggest articulation mistake most people make
• Her thoughts on a classical vs. jazz set-up
• What Nicki’s practice always starts with & one exercise she always plays
• How the Fuego Quartet formed & how they rehearse when everyone lives in different states
• Nicki’s new album, Unquiet Waters

Show your love and support for the show by becoming a Patron.

You get Bonus content, early access to the video interviews, searchable transcripts of many of the episodes and more.

Just go to our Patreon site – we truly appreciate your support 😊

Fuller is a Grammy-nominated Mack Avenue recording artist, composer, educator and bandleader who is currently balancing the worlds of performance and education, fulfilling a demanding schedule as both a busy touring, recording artist and a full-time professor at the Berklee College of  Music in Boston.

She has recorded five full-length projects with her own quartet and her most recent album, Diamond Cut, received a Grammy nomination in the Best Instrumental Jazz category. 

The album was produced by three-time Grammy Award winner Terri Lyne Carrington, legendary bassist, Dave Holland and drummer, Jack Dejohnette. 

Additionally, she can be seen playing regularly with Terri Lyne Carrington, Ralph Peterson Jr., Esperanza Spalding, Dianne Reeves, Rufus Reid and many more.

Fuller has also expanded her presence as a model and essayist being featured in J. Jill’s “Rhythm and Blues” campaign, Vanity Fair’s “Women in Jazz” issue, and wrote an opinion piece for NBCNEWS.com on “Sexism in Jazz.” 

Fuller has also graced the cover of Downbeat Magazine, Jazztimes, Saxophone Today, The Jazz Education Journal, and recently Japan’s, The Sax Magazine.

Her newest project, The Sax Loft,  is an online teaching collaboration with sax legends, Kirk Whalum and Jeff Coffin.

Fuller has received numerous awards and marks of distinction including, winning Jazztimes Jazz Critics Poll for best alto saxophonist (2018), and Downbeat Critic’s Poll-‘Rising Star’ two years in a row for Soprano Sax (2014), Alto Sax and Flute (2013). 

In 2018, she has also received the Benny Golson Award from Howard University, the Distinguished Alumnae Award and commencement speaker from the University of Colorado at Boulder and appointed as 2018’s Artist-in-Residence at the Monterey Jazz Festival.

As a Professor at Berklee College of Music, she also shares her expertise directing the Rainbow big band and All Stars, the Esperanza Ensemble, repertoire class, jazz improvisation, two jazz combos and the Christian Mcbride Ensemble. 

In addition, she produces and directs large production ground-breaking ensembles such as, the Beyonce, Bruno Mars and Ariana Grande Ensembles.

These groups focus on cross-collaboration throughout the college and is reflective of an “A-list” tour/production incorporating musicians, choreography, strings, dancers, video and lighting. 

As an artist, performer, and teacher, Fuller feels that she is fulfilling her purpose here on this earth, which is to “serve as a light for others.”

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

This episode was sponsored by 10mFan Mouthpieces

In this episode, we talked about:

• The importance of singing as a saxophone player
• Her newest project, with Kirk Whalum and Jeff  Coffin, The Sax Loft
• How she adapted as a musician during the pandemic
• Auditioning for Beyonce
• Her thought process when performing
• How she got the job for Pixar’s ‘Soul’ movie
• Her approach to improvisation today and back then
• One tool that really helped her playing
• and more!

Become a Patron for as little as a $2 donation each month...

You get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

Ramon Manas, Founder of Odisei Music, and Creator of the Travel Sax wanted to find a way to practice his saxophone more.

His time was limited and his living situation didn’t allow him the freedom to practice whenever he wanted.

Because of that, he was starting to get self-conscious about playing at all.

Having an engineering background, Ramon got to work on creating the Travel Sax, a practice tool for saxophone players who were facing similar problems as he.

After much research, experimentation and prototype testing, he created the 1st version of the Travel Sax.

The reviews were great, but Ramon wanted to improve it even more.

After receiving feedback from backers and professional musicians, Ramon designed the prototypes for Travel Sax 2.

In this episode, I peppered him with every possible question I could think of that would help you decide if Travel Sax 2 is right for you.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• How Ramon Manas came up with the idea for the Travel Sax
• How it works
• New Color options for the keys and body
• How easy it is to make any repairs
• The differences and similarities to a typical saxophone
•  Mouthpiece compatibility
• Ramon does a sound demo
•  Internal sound vs. midi
• Standard mouthpiece vs. Travel Sax’s mouthpiece
• The case features and size
•  Limited time Indiegogo campaign for Travel Sax 2

Help support the show & get behind-the-scenes footage not shared anywhere else!

Visit www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to become a patron & help keep the great interviews coming.

Billboard charting saxophonist, Chris Godber has become a highly sought-after performer in both the Smooth Jazz & Gospel Jazz realms. 

His 2015 album “Starting Over” launched him into the Smooth Jazz spotlight with the chart topping hits Rain and Chill. 

His goal when he performs is not to just entertain, but to inspire.

At an early age, he was told he could not play saxophone due to the severity of his asthma, but he found a way to play anyway.

For over 20 years, Godber has been leaving others breathless with his soulful saxophone playing and inspiring testimony. 

Aside from being a chart-topping saxophonist, he’s also a Registered Respiratory Therapist, and has worked the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic.

His recent single, Essential,  is filled with positive energy reflecting the healing nature of music and the arts.

He has shared the stage and or opened up for a wide range of notable artists such as Mindi Abair, Marcus Anderson, Jackiem Joyner, Average White Band, Tower of Power, Dr. John, Snarky Puppy, Sara Evans, T. Graham Brown and even the live tour of Dancing with the Stars. 

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Chris’s connection with recent guest, Jennifer Price
• His upbringing in a military family and how it influenced his appreciation of music
• Tips & breathing exercises (from a Respiratory Therapist)
• How he got into R&B and gospel music
•  How the saxophone is the closest instrument to the human voice & why singing is so important for success on the saxophone
• How he learned improvisation…and it wasn’t through formal training
• How Chris got into respiratory therapy
• Juggling work as a musician and respiratory therapist
•  Being an artist during the pandemic
• Upcoming projects and shows

Support the show & get behind-the-scenes footage not shared anywhere else!

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the great interviews coming.

Saxophonist, Composer, Educator, Advocate, Steven Banks is an Assistant Professor of Saxophone at Ithaca College in NY. He is the first saxophonist to earn a place on the Young Concert Artists roster in its 59-year history, capturing First Prize at the 2019 Young Concert Artists International Auditions.

He has won numerous other awards, including Korean Concert Society Prize (for support of his Kennedy Center debut), Buffalo Chamber Music Society Prize, Saint Vincent College Concert Series Prize, and more.

He has performed with the Cleveland Orchestra in Carnegie hall, amongst many other famous concert halls throughout the world.

Banks is the baritone saxophonist of the award-winning Kenari Quartet, which has found a home performing on many of the premiere chamber music series in the United States. 

The group has earned top prizes at 7 national and international chamber music competitions.

Banks is an advocate for diversity and inclusion in music education, performance, and newly commissioned works in the classical realm. 

He gave a talk at the TEDxNorthwesternU 2017 conference with ideas about how to create change in institutionalized prejudices against women and people of color. Since the talk, Banks has written an article for WQXR and given guest lectures on the history of black classical composers. 

Banks serves as a member of the first Committee on the Status of Women for the North American Saxophone Alliance, and is proud to have been selected as a member of the jury for the first Female Saxophonist Competition. 

Banks is an endorsing artist for Conn-Selmer instruments, D’Addario Woodwinds, lefreQue Sound Solutions, and Key Leaves.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• Tips and recommendations of pieces for Classical saxophonists
• What made him decide to go the classical route instead of jazz
• Steven talks about his equipment in detail, and the research he’s done
• A key question to ask when thinking about your set up
• A new app for improving saxophone tone that he loves to recommend
• Silver and lacquer plating; differences in sound and projection
• How he uses the LefreQue sound bridge accessory

Help support the show & get behind-the-scenes footage not shared anywhere else!

Visit www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to become a patron & help keep the great interviews coming.

Saxophonist, Composer, Educator, Advocate, Steven Banks is an Assistant Professor of Saxophone at Ithaca College in NY. He is the first saxophonist to earn a place on the Young Concert Artists roster in its 59-year history, capturing First Prize at the 2019 Young Concert Artists International Auditions.

He has won numerous other awards, including Korean Concert Society Prize (for support of his Kennedy Center debut), Buffalo Chamber Music Society Prize, Saint Vincent College Concert Series Prize, and more.

He has performed with the Cleveland Orchestra in Carnegie hall, amongst many other famous concert halls throughout the world.

Banks is the baritone saxophonist of the award-winning Kenari Quartet, which has found a home performing on many of the premiere chamber music series in the United States. 

The group has earned top prizes at 7 national and international chamber music competitions.

Banks is an advocate for diversity and inclusion in music education, performance, and newly commissioned works in the classical realm. 

He gave a talk at the TEDxNorthwesternU 2017 conference with ideas about how to create change in institutionalized prejudices against women and people of color. Since the talk, Banks has written an article for WQXR and given guest lectures on the history of black classical composers. 

Banks serves as a member of the first Committee on the Status of Women for the North American Saxophone Alliance, and is proud to have been selected as a member of the jury for the first Female Saxophonist Competition. 

Banks is an endorsing artist for Conn-Selmer instruments, D’Addario Woodwinds, lefreQue Sound Solutions, and Key Leaves.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Help support the show & get behind-the-scenes footage not shared anywhere else!

Visit www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to become a patron & help keep the great interviews coming.

Matthew Steckler (aka Matty Stecks) performs and composes in several musical settings internationally. Primarily a saxophonist/woodwind specialist, he also performs on vocals, keyboards, percussion and electronic media, bringing a dynamic, holistic approach to the live musical experience. 

As an artist, Matthew has appeared at prominent festivals and concert series, and has received commissions from Chamber Music America, Meet the Composer, American Music Center and American Composers Forum. 

His recordings with projects Dead Cat Bounce, Persiflage and Musical Tramps – on Ropeadope, Cuneiform and Innova labels – have made Best CD lists in Downbeat and Jazz Times. 

Matthew has written for concert music, theatre, film and game settings, and continues his own foundational work in embodied composition and electroacoustics that began with his 2013 research-based, extended work Eco Beat Heresy. 

He most recently taught at Brandon University School of Music. Matthew holds a Ph.D. in Composition (NYU) and M.M. in Jazz Performance (New England Conservatory), and a B.A. in Music (Wesleyan University).

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• His transition from playing by ear to reading & playing at the same time
• How his marching band playing experience shaped him as a saxophonist
• The origin of Death Cat Bounce
• His transition from playing experimental into bebop
• Electro acoustics & multimedia
• And a lot more!

Help support the show & get behind-the-scenes footage not shared anywhere else!

Visit www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to become a patron & help keep the great interviews coming.

Jennifer Price, creator of Vigilante Mouthpieces,  attended Berklee College of Music where she was a flute major.

After graduating, she left Boston for NYC, where she worked on 48th Street in the music district by day as a woodwind buyer for various shops and played all sorts of jazz and classical gigs nights and weekends. 

She didn’t own a saxophone at Berklee but learned to play after college.  Her teachers were the NY saxophonists who helped me to craft my sound. 

As a buyer on 48th Street, she learned a lot through various well-known saxophonists about mouthpieces, which began her interest in what shapes a mouthpiece sound. 

After working for years in NYC, she was offered a job working with Dave Guardala. At that time, Dave was working with the top saxophonists in the world and his work was well respected. Guardala and Price worked together for more than a decade creating works of musical art for Tom Scott, Branford Marsalis, Bill Evans and most notably Michael Brecker. 

She took the skills learned with Guardala to create her own Vigilante Mouthpieces.  

Price has had the honor of working with four former Tower of Power saxophonists as well as Richard Elliot, Paul Taylor, Euge Groove, Jeff Ryan and many others. 

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Similarities of flute, trumpet, and other horns
• How Dave Guardala met Dave Liebman and Michael Brecker
• How Michael Brecker’s concert changed her perception towards saxophone
• How she picked reeds for Michael Brecker
• What people should look for when choosing reeds
• Her first time meeting Dave Guardala
•  Rules for mouthpieces
• And tons of great stories!

Wanna support the show?

Become a Patron, and for as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

Today’s episode is going to give you some insight into one of the best resources for saxophone players at any level.

Harri Rautiainen is the original Founder of the Sax on the Web Forum, a website created over 20 years ago that not only has a vibrant Discussion Forum on a wide range of topics, but also Article and Resources from well-known and respected saxophonists and educators, such as Paul Coates and Tim Price.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• Harri’s initial intention for the website 
• Paul Coates’ first collection of articles
• Early days of Sax on the Web
• Sax on the Web Facebook Group
• Harri’s musical background
• and more!

Help support the show & get behind-the-scenes footage not shared anywhere else!

Visit www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to become a patron & help keep the great interviews coming.

To celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month, we are really excited to present New York-based saxophonist and composer Sam Newsome.

Sam often works in the medium of solo saxophone, an approach for which he received a five-star review in Downbeat magazine & gained world-wide critical acclaim with his 2009 recording, Blue Soliloquy: Solo Works for Soprano Saxophone. 

Ed Enright, from Downbeat magazine, called the 2014 release, The Straight Horn of Africa, “a modern masterpiece.”

Many of the notes and sounds used in his compositions and improvisations stem from his sound palette of extended techniques and saxophone preparations.

Newsome often attaches tube extensions to the neck of the soprano that significantly changes the timbre of the instrument as well as extends the soprano’s range by an octave or two.

Conceptually speaking, Newsome sees himself more along the lines of a visual artist who paints with notes and sounds rather than shapes and colors.

Newsome has also received numerous accolades for his adventurous work, including this year’s 2020 Instant Award in Improvised Music, along with fellow avant-gardists Peter Brotzmann and John Butcher.

He was also named a nominee for Soprano Saxophonist of the Year by the 2020 Jazz Journalist Association. 

In addition to his solo work, Newsome leads a trio with Hilliard Greene and Reggie Nicholson.

He is a frequent collaborator with drummer Andrew Cyrille, vocalist Fay Victor, and tours regularly with Pepperland, a music and dance work by Mark Morris and Ethan Iverson that pays tribute to The Beatles.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts?

All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming.

If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site, https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

To celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month, we are really excited to present Jaleel Shaw, who has been a long standing member of the Roy Haynes Quartet, the Mingus Big Band and recently joined Tom Harrell’s Color of a Dream band. 

A bandleader in his own right, Jaleel’s solo recordings have been met with rave reviews from publications including The New York Times, Downbeat Magazine, and Jazztimes Magazine. 

In Jazztimes Magazine’s 2011 Readers Poll, he was mentioned as Alto Saxophonist of the Year along with legendary saxophonists Phil Woods, Lee Konitz, Bunky Green, and Kenny Garrett. 

Jaleel is a force to be reckoned with and is noted as one of the most influential alto saxophonists of his generation. 

Jaleel has performed and recorded with the likes of Clark Terry, Roy Hargrove, The Mingus Big Band, Christian McBride, Chick Corea, Jason Moran, Jeff “Tain” Watts, Arturo Sandoval, Nicholas Payton, Dave Holland, Jimmy Cobb, the Village Vanguard Orchestra, and the Count Basie Orchestra.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about: 

• Working with Roy Hargrove and Roy Haynes
• Main influence when it comes to his sound
• Jaleel shares Jazz Articulation tips
• What his composing process looks like
• One lesson he wants his students to remember the most
• His under $100 tool he can’t live without
• and more!

Want access to behind the scenes interviews not seen anywhere else, along with searchable transcripts of the shows?

With a small monthly donation of $2 or more, keep the great interviews coming by becoming a patron.

Head on over to our Patreon site to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Shelley Jagow (PhD.), Professor of Music at Wright State University (Dayton, OH), is Director of Bands conducting both the Symphonic Band and Wind Symphony, and teaches conducting at the undergraduate and graduate level. 

She is a Vandoren Artist-Clinician, as well as a music education clinician for Conn-Selmer and Meredith Music/GIA Music. 

Shelley has presented clinics and performances at several State Music Educators Conferences as well as the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic, NASA (North American Saxophone Alliance), ISME (International Society for Music Education, CMS (College Music Symposium), AMIS (Association for Music in International Schools), and the United States Navy Band International Saxophone Symposium.

Shelley was previously nominated for both the “Robert J. Kegerreis Distinguished Professor of Teaching” Award and the “Brage Golding Distinguished Professor of Research” Award. 

She has published numerous articles in periodicals and is a contributing author to both The Music Director’s Cookbook (Meredith Music), and Teaching Music Through Performance in Band (GIA) series. 

Shelley is the author of Teaching Instrumental Music: Developing the Complete Band Program (2nd edition) (Meredith Music) – a popular textbook for music education degree study across the United States and Canada. More recent publications include Tuning for Wind Instruments: A Roadmap to Successful Intonation (Meredith), Intermediate Studies for Developing Artists on the Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Saxophone and Bassoon (Meredith), and The Londeix Lectures—a multi-dvd set archiving the historical lectures of Jean-Marie Londeix (and translated by William Street).

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Want access to behind-the-scenes interviews not seen anywhere else, along with searchable transcripts of the shows?

With a small monthly donation of $2 or more, keep the great interviews coming by becoming a patron.

Head on over to our Patreon site to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

March is Women’s History Month, and we are really excited to present the phenomenal multi-genre performer, educator and composer from the UK, Emma McPhilemy.

As a classically trained musician, Emma takes great pleasure in using her refined instrumental skill to experiment and collaborate with other performers. 

From classical, contemporary and improvisational to folk, pop, R&B and dance, she thrives most when creating and pushing the limits and boundaries of cross-genre performance. 

As an educator, Emma has taught private students of all abilities, and presented professional masterclasses and workshops at Universities in China, Australia, UK and Europe. 

Recent career highlights include making her debut concerto performance with The BBC Philharmonic, touring internationally as Musical Director and saxophone soloist in Bill Whelan’s production of ‘Riverdance’, traveling to Australia as guest artist at ‘The Melbourne Saxophone Festival’ and launching her own online, saxophone series (#lockthesaxdown) which has since turned into a global project and fully funded album, to be released over the coming months. 

2021 holds her debut album release and a rescheduled tour with Riverdance. 

Emma plans to make an appearance at the 2022 World Saxophone Congress in Japan, and in Trento at the European Saxophone Congress. 

Emma is endorsed by Selmer Paris, Vandoren and KeyLeaves. 

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Her innovative “Lock the Sax Down” project
• Her experience with folk music as a sax player
• Emma’s approach to improvisation when it comes to different genres
• Equipment and her set-up on alto and soprano sax
• How her musical background allowed her to learn the Riverdance show in a week
• Emma’s approach to teaching
• Her mentors, influences, & inspirations
• The evolution of her practice routines
• Breathing tips for wind musicians
• Above-and-beyond Goal-setting tips!
• The under $100 tool she can’t live without
• and more!

Help us bring more amazing interviews to you, AND get extra special Bonus content when you become a patron!

More info is HERE

Los Angeles-based saxophonist Bob Reynolds is a Grammy-winning member of the instrumental group Snarky Puppy, an award-winning composer, and a prolific recording artist with 10 top-selling solo albums to his credit.

Widely known for his work with both Snarky and John Mayer, he’s been a featured soloist with Grammy-winning instrumentalists like Larry Carlton, Chris Botti, and Jeff Lorber and worked with a host of pop artists including Michael Bublé, Idina Menzel, Josh Groban, The 1975, and USHER.

The New York Times called him “a self-assured saxophonist and an unassuming yet effective composer,” and his solo albums showcase his melodic improvisational style, tuneful songwriting, and, as the LA Times put it: “hip-swiveling” grooves. His Guitar Band album, filmed live in concert, has over 4 million views on YouTube.

A pioneer in online education, Bob has coached thousands of musicians since 2010 through his innovative Virtual Studio, and more than 76,000 people subscribe to Bob’s YouTube channel where he shares behind-the-scenes videos of what it’s like balancing his music career with raising a family.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Biggest influences when it comes to playing, composing, and improvisation
• What does jazz really mean?
• The importance of learning jazz when it comes to improvisation
• Why you should learn and play rhythm section instruments
• His first tool for composing
• The under $100 tool he can’t live without

Wanna support the show?

Become a Patron, and for as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

Our 101st guest is Brent Vaartstra, a professional jazz guitarist living in New York City, and the Director of the internationally renowned jazz education company, Learn Jazz Standards. 

Even though Brent plays guitar, we thought it would be incredibly valuable for you to know about Learn Jazz Standards and to get into the mind of a really great jazz teacher.

Brent has helped hundreds of thousands of musicians around the world take their jazz playing to the next level, through his blog, podcast, YouTube channel, and online courses.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Brent’s contribution to the jazz community
• How he discovered the tenets of a good improviser
• His approach as a teacher on the internet’s information overload
• What made him start Learn Jazz Standards
• Learn Jazz Live 2021 2-day Virtual Summit
• How basic music theory can go a long way
• The $100 tool he can’t live without

Become a patron!

Patrons get access to bonus behind-the-scenes interviews not seen anywhere else, along with searchable transcripts of the shows.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming.

If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site. 

https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Alexa Tarantino is an award-winning, vibrant, young jazz saxophonist, woodwind doubler, composer, and educator. 

Tarantino was recently named one of the “Top 5 Alto Saxophonists of 2019” by the JazzTimes Critics’ Poll. 

She has performed regularly as a leader and side woman with the Alexa Tarantino Quartet,  Cecile McLorin, Ulysses Owens Jr., LSAT (the quintet co-led with baritone saxophonist, Lauren Sevian), Arturo O’Farrill & The Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra, Sherrie Maricle & the DIVA Jazz Orchestra. 

Alexa is an artist on the Posi-Tone Records label, and her debut quartet record, Winds of Change, released late-May 2019, peaked at #15 on the JazzWeek Charts and landed at #79 for JazzWeek’s Top 100 records of 2019. Her second record is Clarity, released in June 2020, which features Steven Feifke (piano), Joe Martin (bass), and Rudy Royston (drums). 

She is currently on faculty for Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Youth Programs, and represents the organization as a Clinician and Educator for various schools, festivals, and workshops. 

Alexa holds a Master’s degree in Jazz Studies from The Juilliard School and Bachelor’s degrees in Jazz Saxophone Performance and Music Education from the Eastman School of Music. 

She is the Founder and Director of the Rockport Jazz Workshop in Rockport, Massachusetts and Co-Founder of A Step Ahead Jazz virtual workshop with pianist Steven Feifke. 

Alexa Tarantino is a Vandoren Artist and Yamaha Performing Artist.

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Her solfege project, So You Think You Can Solfege 
• Her musical background, and the connection with Music Learning Theory
• Working with baritone saxophonist, Lauren Sevian
• How she developed her own voice
• Being a musician during the pandemic
• Her studio set-up
• Her musical influences
• Future of improvised music post-covid
• and more

Become a Patron! For as little as $2 a month, you get access to behind the scenes Bonus footage, PLUS searchable transcripts from the episodes.

Just go HERE to keep the show going.

Over the last 30 years, British saxophonist Tim Garland has forged a reputation as a highly distinctive and in-demand musician and composer.

Whilst often inspired by influences from the diverse European classical tradition, his celebrated virtuosity as a saxophonist and improviser maintains his position as one of the UK’s most authentic jazz voices.

He has toured with Ronnie Scotts and with Chick Corea for 17 years. Playing tenor and soprano saxes, bass clarinet and flute, he also won a Grammy for his symphonic orchestrations on Corea’s “The New Crystal Silence” album from 2007.

Garland has fulfilled commissions from several of the worlds’ top orchestras, including  a double concerto from the LSO, a piano concerto for Gwilym Simcock from  The Royal Northern Sinfonia, with whom he went on to record three CDs, a cello and sax concerto from the CBSO, and a sax concerto from the BBC Concert Orchestra.

In 2016 he premiered  “Re:Focus”  (a re-imagining of the Getz /Sauter project of 1962 ‘Focus’) to a full house at London’s Wigmore Hall, which was released in 2020. 

Garland has been a research professor in new music styles at both Newcastle University and The Royal Northern College Of Music, as well as a regular visiting professor at The Royal Academy Of Music London. He has led workshops around the world and been a visiting artist at Leeds College of Music and Oriel College Oxford amongst others. He has twice been a judge in the BBC Young Jazz Musician Of The Year Award.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• Tim’s Winter Encounters Project 
•  Advice on making music deliverable 
• Working with a singer
•  Playing saxophone as an accompaniment
• Working with Chick Corea
• and a whole lot more!

Become a Patron! For as little as $2 a month, you get access to behind the scenes Bonus footage, PLUS searchable transcripts from the episodes.

Just go HERE to keep the show going.

Sax-Man, Elan Trotman, who has quickly become one of the fastest rising stars in jazz with over 10 Billboard topping radio singles in his young career.

Trotman brings his tropical grooves and soulful Caribbean flavors to major festivals and cruises worldwide.

In addition to a successful solo career, the Berklee College of Music graduate has also worked as a side-man with some of the biggest names in the biz including Roberta Flack, Jeffrey Osborne, Johnny Gill, Peabo Bryson, Michael McDonald, Jonathan Butler, Sheila E and Earl Klugh.

Trotman is also the Executive Producer of the Annual Barbados Jazz Excursion which directly supports Elan’s Never Lose Your Drive Foundation in Barbados.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• His transition from brass to woodwind embouchure
• Mentors from Berklee who went back to Barbados & the piece of advice from his mentors that he still uses today
• How a missed opportunity with Alicia Keys changed his career
• Thoughts on album releases and touring & what he did to get more opportunities as a touring musician
• How his culture influenced his songwriting
• His foundation and how he helped music students in Barbados
• The under $100 tool he can’t live without

Help support the show & get behind-the-scenes footage not shared anywhere else!

Visit www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to become a patron & help keep the great interviews coming.

You may not be familiar with Dana Robbins’ name, but odds are you’re already well-acquainted with her unique, bright yet smoky saxophone sound. The Nashville-by-way-of-Ann-Arbor (with a ten-year stop in Los Angeles) Robbins has been a featured player for superstars including Barry Manilow, Roger Daltrey, Frank Zappa, TajMo (Taj Mahal and Keb Mo), Aretha Franklin and can currently be heard in Grammy-winning blues legend Delbert McClinton’s band.

With the release of her new, self-titled, album, listeners will finally be able to put a name, a face and a voice to her sound. Just click on the album’s first track, the sly, tart “Say It Again,” and you’ll understand why Music City insiders consider her an instrumental MVP, a first-call when you’re looking for a sax player.

Having started on piano at age 4 and saxophone in 5th grade, studying with great teachers throughout middle and high school and attending Berklee College of Music, Dana has an extensive music background and some serious chops.

Dana has 3 albums out – you can purchase them on her site at www.DanaRobbins.com 

Dana is a Yamaha-endorsed artist.

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• how she landed the Delbert McClinton gig, and has been performing with him for many years
• the funny story behind her audition for Barry Manilow, and how she got that gig
• what it was like working with Aretha Franklin
• how she has been surviving during the pandemic and a great resource for performers who want extra income creating recordings
• the simple, yet effective equipment she used for sending recordings to producers (and even Keb Mo!)
• Dana’s secret to her warm and smoky tone
• her mentors and inspirations
• the under $100 tool she can’t live without
• and so much more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts?

All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming.

If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site, 

https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Danny Markovitch is the co-leader and founder of the jazz-fusion band, Marbin.

Marbin is a progressive jazz-rock band based in Chicago, IL, with a unique story that stands out in today’s music world.

With a do-it-yourself approach, Marbin started touring extensively in 2011, bringing their original instrumental music to every part of the United States. Through word of mouth, Marbin has gained hundreds of thousands of devoted fans all over the world and has sold tens of thousands of albums.

Marbin has released eight albums: Marbin (2009), Breaking the Cycle (2011), Last Chapter of Dreaming (2013), The Third Set (2014), Aggressive Hippies (2015), Goatman and the House of the Dead(2016), Israeli Jazz (2018), and Strong Thing (2019).

Its most recent, Russian Dolls, was just released on its Bandcamp site on November 6, 2020.

Marbin regularly plays in clubs all over the US and in jam and jazz festivals around the world.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Danny’s Introduction to Music in Israel
• What made Danny choose Saxophone
• Military journey and starting from ground zero
• Set-up and Equipment
• Thoughts on practice, routines, and exercises
• Tips on improvisation
• His approach to soloing and songwriting
• Process on music composition
• Danny’s unique partnership with his guitar player Dani Rabin

Want access to behind-the-scenes interviews not seen anywhere else, along with searchable transcripts of the shows?

With a small monthly donation of $2 or more, keep the great interviews coming by becoming a patron.

Head on over to our Patreon site to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Phil Rovner founded Rovner Products in 1974, when he created the Original Dark ligature. To this day, that ligature is still one of the top sellers in the entire Rovner catalog.

Over the years, more Classic models were developed, such as the Light, the Eddie Daniels (the Versa replaced this one), and the Mk III.

When George Reeder, current President and Co-Owner of Rovner Products took over in 2014, the ligature catalog has expanded to include the Next Generation ligatures: The Versa X, the Star Series, The Legacy, The Platinum, Platinum Gold and the Van Gogh.

Since I’ve been getting so many questions on the Van Gogh ligature, in this episode, George gives more background and a demo on how to properly place this unique ligature.

Since 2014, he and his wife and Co-Owner, Lynn, have developed even more products, some of which we are going to talk about in this episode.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Help us bring more amazing interviews to you, AND get extra special Bonus content when you become a patron!

More info is HERE

Doug Levin started playing saxophone at the age of 10. His earliest influences were guitar players like Johnny Winter, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Steve Vai, whose sonic explorations would inform his love of effects and pedals. His love of music expanded and his broadening musical capacity led him to play with such greats as The Manhattan Transfer, Buddy Guy, and many more. His musical journey eventually took him to Oberlin College and Conservatory where he met his HornFX partner, Aaron Janik. 

In 2016 they created HornFX, a unique resource for the horn player looking to use effects. Its reviews, books, articles, artist pages, and effects databases are specifically geared to inform any horn player about what effects and pedals might best provide the sounds and capabilities they are looking for.

The goal of HornFX is to give the most comprehensive, complete, well-thought-out information and advice to the pedal-seeking horn player. 

Aaron and Doug also give lessons and consultations, build curriculums for middle school, high school, and higher education, build custom pedalboards for musicians, and work with some of the most accomplished musicians in the world to develop, build, and refine their effects set-up.

This was a special episode…Doug and I had been talking about how we could help saxophone players now, especially in the age of COVID 19, to refine their performances using effects pedals.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

•  how solo saxophone players can use effects pedals to enhance their show
•  Doug’s advice for playing vocal melodies with effects pedals
•  Live Streaming; how to sound great using effects pedals
•  the different roles the performer takes when considering which pedals to use
•  how to think like a producer and play less
•  tips for using effects pedals with jam tracks
•  Doug performed a ton of demos
• and a whole lot more!

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Become a patron!

Patrons get access to bonus behind-the-scenes interviews not seen anywhere else, along with searchable transcripts of the shows.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming.

If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site. 

https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Grammy award winning baritone saxophonist Lauren Sevian is one of the most in demand musicians on the scene today. 

She is the Winner of the “Rising Star” Baritone Saxophonist in the 67th Downbeat Critics Poll and  Winner of the Hothouse Jazz Awards Baritone Saxophone 2019.

Ms. Sevian came to NYC in 1997 to attend the Manhattan School of Music, and soon thereafter began touring with groups such as Diva and the Artie Shaw Orchestra. 

She can be seen performing as a bandleader around the NYC area with her quartet, the LSQ, or LSAT, her quintet co-led with alto saxophonist Alexa Tarantino, which recently won first place in the “Made in NY” jazz competition. 

She is also co-director of the all female collective “Lioness™️’”. 

As a side woman, she can be heard regularly with the Mingus Big Band, and has performed with countless other groups, notably the Dizzy Gillespie all star big band, Christian McBride’s Big Band, Robin Eubanks Big Band, and the legendary Count Basie Orchestra. 

Her debut album “Blueprint” was released on saxophonist Greg Osby’s label Inner Circle Music to critical acclaim, winning a SESAC jazz award for national performance activity, and receiving rave reviews in publications such as Downbeat, Cadence, and All About Jazz. 

Her sophomore album, “Bliss”, was released spring 2018 on Posi-tone Records, and features all stars of the jazz scene, Alexa Tarantino, Robert Rodriguez, Christian McBride, and E.J. Strickland. 

Her versatility as a musician has led her to a variety of playing situations, working with the likes of actor Denis Leary, with Maurice Hines in the theater production of “Tappin Thru Life”, and with Harry Connick Jr. in his broadway show “A Celebration of Cole Porter”. 

She is a frequent guest artist at many universities, high schools, middle schools, and jazz festivals across the country. As an educator, she has been teaching privately for over 15 years. 

She is on the jazz saxophone faculty at the Manhattan School of Music, Jazz at Lincoln Center as the director of the “Young Women’s Jazz Orchestra”, instructor for the middle school jazz academy, Summer Jazz Academy at Bard College, and Jazz House Kids Summer Jazz Workshop. 

She has adjudicated at many jazz competitions & festivals, notably the Essentially Ellington Competition at Jazz at Lincoln Center, the Monterey Jazz Festivals’ “Next Generation Jazz Festival”, the Victoria Music Festival in Melbourne, Australia, and the Eau Claire Jazz Festival at the University of Wisconsin in Eau Claire. Ms. Sevian endorses Buffet-Crampon saxophones, D’addario Woodwinds, RPC mouthpieces, Key Leaves, Robinson’s Remedies, and BG France accessories.

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Lauren’s “Strong Island”/Long Island connection with Donna
• The solos she transcribed that were most influential
• Having a confident mindset
• Her tips for increasing your breath support
• How to approach performing as a duo
• How Greg Osby inspired her to record
• Her early years in the NY Jazz scene
• Her playing partnership with Alexa Tarantino 
• How the Lioness Collective started
• Being a woman in Jazz today
• and a whole lot more!

Want to show your love and support for the Everything Saxophone Podcast?

Become a Patron! For as little as $2 a month, you get access to behind-the-scenes Bonus footage, PLUS searchable transcripts from the episodes.

Just go HERE to keep the show going.

Adrian Crutchfield has taken the world by storm in recent years, not only as the last sax player to perform and record with Prince, touring the world and being featured on Prince’s last three albums, but also touring domestically and internationally with acts such as Lionel Ritchie, Bette Midler, and Cee-Lo Green — all the while writing and building his 2017 release titled ‘Leap’.

In jazz, Mr. Crutchfield has been featured by names such as Kim Waters, Mike Phillps, Alex Bugnon, Jeff Lorber, and Branford Marsalis; and with legendary groups such as Fourplay and The Gap Band featuring Charlie Wilson.

Adrian is a 2008 graduate of Florida State University (B.A. in Music with a concentration in jazz, contemporary media, and commercial music).

Although young, this saxophone aficionado is one of his generation’s most prolific and successful professional musicians.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

•  how Kenny G inspired him to play saxophone
•  the #1 lesson he learned from performing with Prince
•  the Harry Potter connection between the magical world and the musical world that helps him relate to his fans
•  why singers were his biggest influences when he first started playing
•  and so much more in this Epic almost 2-hour interview!

And get awesome behind-the-scenes footage not shared anywhere else!

There is extra bonus footage from Adrian and Laura Dreyer and Kim Cypher.

Check out our Patreon site today 🎷

Saxophonist, flutist, and composer Laura Dreyer is a vibrant, creative voice in the New York jazz scene.

Her catchy original compositions combine lyrical melodies with jazz, Brazilian rhythms, funk, and rock, resulting in an exciting, contemporary palette of sound with a strong rhythmic twist.

A multi-instrumentalist, Dreyer performs both nationally and internationally with her Brazilian Jazz ensemble, “Laura Dreyer and the Manhattan/Rio Connection,” while additionally being in great demand as a side-person.

Audiences have heard her in the bands of such diverse artists as Dr. Billy Taylor, Dom Salvador, Helcio Milito, Portinho, Bossa PDX, Walter Bishop Jr., Mel Lewis, Robert Palmer, Nnenna Freelon, saxophonist/author James McBride, “The Diva Jazz Orchestra, and many others.

Laura has recorded four CDs as a leader/producer, including Mysterious Encounter (Lavasphere), Free Flying Bird (Sony/Piloo), and Sax in the City (Apria), and Vida. Arte. Amor. (Mayimba Jazz). She is also featured on acclaimed Brazilian pianist Dom Salvador’s newest release, The Art of Samba Jazz, which received a Premio da Musica Brasileira award for Best Instrumental CD.

Laura attended The Berklee College of Music in Boston, and has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music form SUNY Empire State College. She has additionally studied with saxophonists Joe Henderson and Joe Lovano, and composers Lyle Mays and Jim McNeely. She is active as a music educator, having served on the faculties of the Jamey Aebersold Jazz Clinics, Cazadero Music and Arts Camp, Jazz Camp West, and the New York Pops Salute to Music Program.

She was a featured performer and educator in Busan, South Korea at The Friends of Music in Korea Music Festival, and is currently on the faculty of Village Community School, Riverdale Country School, and The New York POPS PopsEd program.

Laura regularly conducts clinics and workshops at high schools and colleges which have included Berklee College of Music, The University of Reno, Nevada, Portland State University, The Jazz Improv Convention, and The California Jazz Conservatory.

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Laura’s experience being one of the original band members in the Diva Jazz Orchestra
• Being a female jazz player; the differences from the ‘90’s – now
• How to decide on your “look”
• Preparing for jam sessions; 5 tunes you should know and her mindset tips
• Lead alto saxophone responsibilities in a big band
• Tips for authentically performing and composing Brazilian music
• Essential Brazilian musicians you should know (and Laura provided us with a free pdf!)
•  and a lot more!

Wanna support the show?

Become a Patron, and for as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

Kim Cypher is creating quite a stir on the jazz scene at present, emerging as one of the UK’s most exciting saxophonists, vocalists and composers and firmly securing a reputation for top quality, stylish, accessible jazz and musical entertainment.

Inspired by the funkier side of jazz and having studied alongside US saxophonist Pee Wee Ellis and internationally acclaimed jazz saxophonist Andy Sheppard, Kim’s style of performance is best described as ‘funky saxophonist meets 1940’s jazz singer’. Kim performs an eclectic mix of music spanning many genres with a quirky, jazzy twist together with her own original material.

Kim’s debut album ‘Make Believe’ was released at the end of 2016, receiving glowing reviews and culminating in a highly successful album tour with sell-out shows across the UK in 2017/18.

Kim’s 2nd album ‘Love Kim x’ (a collection of inspired original music and quirky takes on some well-known classics) was released May 2019 and was listed in the Top 10 jazz albums of 2019 by online jazz magazine Bebop Spoken Here. The album and tour featured Pee Wee Ellis plus some of the finest jazz musicians in the UK and US including saxophonist Pee Wee Ellis, David Newton on piano (14 times winner of best pianist in the British Jazz Awards), Clive Morton on double bass (ex-tutor to Jamie Cullum and long-time sideman with Frank Sinatra and Stephane Grappelli), Karl Vanden Bossche on percussion (Incognito, Jamiroquai, Joss Stone, Sade, Simply Red, Michael Buble), New York guitarist B.D. Lenz to name just a few.

In March 2020 (just before the coronavirus hit) Kim performed a sold-out show in Soho London with special guest Jazz Giant Ray Gelato. This was part of Kim’s ‘For Mum’ project raising money for The Brain Tumour Charity. The project ran alongside release of a brand new original song and video ‘All For You’ in April 2020. The project has so far raised over £2500 for the charity.

Kim has been featured on local TV, BBC Radio 2, BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio London ‘live’ plus international radio stations.

Her unique ‘funky’ style of saxophone playing has been built upon influences by great players such as Gerald Albright, Maceo Parker, Pee Wee Ellis, Andy Sheppard, Dean Fraser, Courtney Pine and Grover Washington. Kim’s vocal style has been influenced by the great Billie Holiday together with a wide range of vocalists / performers including Gunhild Carling, Imelda May, Caro Emerald and Liane Carroll.

In 2019 Kim was featured in the award winning ‘Women In Jazz’ book by author Sammy Stein and published by 8th House where she is described as “one of the UK’s most popular players”.

In 2016 Kim was flown to New York with her jazz quartet for a private jazz performance in Manhattan. In 2017 Kim was commissioned to perform a private event for the UK Prime Minister Theresa May.

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Her “secret” exercise she loves to warm up with
• A huge tip from Andy Snitzer that’s helped her with tone
• How she created her unique style
• How she went from full-time school teacher to full-time musician
• How she’s created performing opportunities during the COVID 19 Pandemic
•  and a lot more!

Become a supporter of the Everything Saxophone Podcast!

Go to our Patreon Page, and for a small monthly donation (from $2-$5), you get behind-the-scenes access to footage from the interviews that is not released anywhere else.

This episode is part 1 of a 2-part series with Doug Levin and Aaron Janik from Horn-FX. 

In 2015, their love of effects and pedals had led Doug Levin and Aaron Janik to various corners of the six-stringed internet and back rooms of guitar centers, only to realize an unfortunate thing: There was nowhere to find information about effects and pedals from the perspective, or made for horn players. 

In 2016 they created HornFX, a unique resource for the horn player looking to use effects. Its reviews, books, articles, artist pages, and effects databases are specifically geared to inform any horn player about what effects and pedals might best provide the sounds and capabilities they are looking for.

The goal of HornFX to give the most comprehensive, complete, well-thought-out information and advice to the pedal seeking horn player. 

Aaron and Doug also give lessons and consultations, build curriculums for middle school, high school, and higher education, build custom pedalboards for musicians, and work with some of the most accomplished musicians in the world to develop, build, and refine their effects set-up.

Doug Levin started playing saxophone at the age of 10. His earliest influences were guitar players like Johnny Winter, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Steve Vai, whose sonic explorations would inform his love of effects and pedals. His love of music expanded and his broadening musical capacity led him to play with such greats as The Manhattan Transfer, Buddy Guy, and many more. His musical journey eventually took him to Oberlin College and Conservatory where he met his HornFX partner, Aaron Janik.

The musical community at Oberlin was astounding and helped Doug’s musicality clarify and mature. After college, he became a working musician while taking on the business world full time. This double-edged hustle continues to this day as he runs HornFX along with Aaron, plays professionally, and spends his days working hard importing and distributing construction materials. HornFX remains Doug’s passion and allows him to lend his expertise to his wide musical network in a meaningful and fulfilling way.

Trumpeter, Educator, and HornFX Co-Founder Aaron Janik has been steeped in the discipline of music since the age of ten. The Massachusetts native’s earliest introduction to music is by way of revered New England trumpeter Jack Martin, whose expert tutelage molded Aaron into a well-rounded musician, fluent in all genres.

Aaron now resides in Los Angeles, CA where he teaches and regularly performs and records with artists across the country, touring with chart-topping artists like R&B First Lady Faith Evans, Charlie Wilson,and others. He has also performed with Earth, Wind, & Fire, Lil Kim, 112, Total, The Yellowjackets, Patrice Rushen, Bone Thugs & Harmony, Robin Eubanks, Bob Mintzer, Tom Scott, and many others.

Aaron completed his undergraduate studies at Oberlin College of Arts & Sciences in May 2013 with a Jazz Trumpet Performance degree as well as a Biology (pre-medical) degree. He also received his Masters degree from USC in Spring 2020, studying with Bob Mintzer, Peter Erskine, Alan Pasqua, Vince Mendoza, and others.   

Aaron endorses B.A.C. trumpets and Denis Wick mouthpieces. He also endorses Strymon, Morley, Pigtronix, Eventide, and Source Audio pedals as well as 64 Audio in-ears.

The link to their full biographies, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this interview, we talked about: 

• How using effects can enable horn players to compete in modern music situations
• What a beginner should think about before using pedals
• How to use pedals to hear yourself at gigs
• What an advanced pedal user needs to think about to get the most from their sound with pedals
• A demonstration of the most commonly used effects pedals
• And so much more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts?

All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming.

If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site, 

https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

This episode is part 2 of a 2-part series with Antonio Hart. The 1st part, episode 86, was all about jazz history. You can check that out on our site saxophonepodcast.com or wherever you listen to podcasts.

For this episode, we went deeper into Antonio’s own story. His influences, thought processes and more.

Antonio Hart is a Grammy-nominated Alto Saxophonist, Composer, and Educator, who regularly performs with the Dave Holland Band and the Dizzy Gillespie Big Band, along with his own group.

He spent three years performing and recording with the late great Roy Hargrove, and has been a guest on over 100 recordings.

He has recorded 8 CD’s as a leader, and his latest CD is called Blessings.

He currently is a full-time Professor at The Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College.

His journey in music started when music programs were cut at his school in Baltimore, Maryland. He had to find a way to pass the audition to get into the High School for Performing Arts or else he would have no avenue to continue pursuing music.

Luckily for the jazz world, he did pass the audition, and it was the life lessons he learned in that school, along with the values and strong mentorship from the late great Jimmy Heath that propelled Antonio to create Grammy-nominated records, perform with some of the greatest legends of Jazz, and direct the Jazz Studies program at Queens College.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this interview, we talked about: 

• Martial arts, and how his passion for it influences his approach to music
• How he’s felt he had to “come from behind” in order to push himself further with music
• The mentorship from Jimmy Heath, and how it’s impacted every aspect of his life
• Stories from Jimmy Heath’s heyday, performing and hanging out with other jazz legends
• What Miles Davis’ voice really sounded like before he damaged his vocal cords
• His approach to tone – he went into this extensively
• And so much more!

Want access to behind-the-scenes interviews not seen anywhere else, along with searchable transcripts of the shows?

With a small monthly donation of $2 or more, keep the great interviews coming by becoming a patron.

Head on over to our Patreon site to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Multi-instrumentalist, Vocalist, Composer Camille Thurman is the first woman in 30 years to tour and perform full time two seasons as a saxophonist with the world-renowned Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra for 2 seasons.  

Camille has shared stages with such jazz and R&B luminaries as George Coleman, Roy Haynes, Dianne Reeves, Wynton Marsalis, The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (JALCO) featuring Wynton Marsalis, Kenny Barron, Buster Williams, Charles Tolliver, Jack DeJohnette, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Terri Lyne Carrington, Jon Hendricks, Harry Connick Jr., Jon Batiste,  Audra MacDonald, Diana Krall, Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, Chaka Khan, Louis Hayes, Russell Malone, Nicholas Payton, Jacky Terrasson, Janelle Monáe, Alicia Keys, Lalah Hathaway, Jill Scott and Erykah Badu, among others.

Camille has been runner up in the 2013 Sarah Vaughan International Vocal Competition, two-time winner of the ASCAP Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composers Award and a winner of the Fulbright Scholars Cultural Ambassador Grant, The Chamber Music of America Performance Plus Grant (Sponsored by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation) and the Jazz Coalition Composers Grant among others. Thurman also has four full-length recordings as a leader to her credit.

She is endorsed by D’Addario Woodwinds & Co. for reeds, Conn-Selmer Inc. for saxophones and Key Leaves saxophone products.

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this interview, we talked about: 

• How to approach a standard to make it your own
• How Camille used networking to become a 1st-call musician in NYC
• What Camille thinks about when improvising
• The influence of mentors, like Tia Fuller, Antoine Roney, Terri Lynne Carrington
• Camille’s funny story about how she switched from alto to tenor sax
• Tips for developing your tone
• And so much more!

Help us bring more amazing interviews to you, AND get extra special Bonus content when you become a patron!

More info is HERE

In this episode, you are going to get a great Jazz History lesson. When I was getting my Master’s Degree at Queens College, I took a Jazz History course that I never forgot.

The Professor was a well-known, widely regarded Jazz musician even in his early thirties.

Grammy-nominated Alto Saxophonist, Composer, and Educator, Antonio Hart, regularly performs with the Dave Holland Band and the Dizzy Gillespie Big Band, along with his own group.

He spent three years performing and recording with the late great Roy Hargrove, and has been a guest on over 100 recordings.

He has recorded 8 CD’s as a leader, and his latest CD is called Blessings.

He currently is a full-time Professor at The Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this interview, we talked about: 

• 1 simple, powerful tip to get started with Jazz history
• Antonio’s list of influential alto and tenor players from then to now
• His special relationship with Jimmy Heath, and the new recordings from Jimmy that are due to come out
• How to listen to your favorite musicians
• How Jazz  & Blues are intertwined
• How using curiosity can improve your playing
• The struggles of Black musicians in the past and especially in today’s climate
• And so much more!

Loving the Podcast?  Please show your support with a small monthly donation to keep the great interviews coming.

Doug Webb, a great saxophonist based here in Los Angeles, is featured on hundreds of recordings for artists including Horace Silver, Freddie Hubbard, Sal Marquez, Stanley Clarke, Brian Bromberg, Quincy Jones, Mat Marucci, Bobby Caldwell, Kyle Eastwood, Rod Stewart, Carly Simon, Art Garfunkel, Queen Latifah and Cher. He played for fifteen years with the Doc Severinsen Tonight Show Big Band. 

He has recorded music for hundreds of movies and television programs, including playing for the Family Guy orchestra. He solos on the soundtrack for Million Dollar Baby and Gran Torino.

He has 16 albums out as a leader, with one of his recent ones being a collaboration with Greg Fishman.

And he has one of the most extensive horn and mouthpiece collections in the world!

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this interview, we talked about: 

• What it was like in the studio playing on the soundtrack for Clint Eastwood’s Gran Torino
• The Coltrane record that changed Doug’s saxophone playing forever
• How he practiced improvisation, without any lessons from a private teacher or online videos
• His CRAZY practice schedule that made him the monster player that he is today 
• A funny experience with Warne Marsh
• What to copy when listening to the masters
• What you will learn in his 2-hour masterclass on reharmonizations and modal playing
• And so much more!

Your support for the Everything Saxophone Podcast would be greatly appreciated!

Please go to our Patreon site and for a small monthly donation, you can help defray the costs of presenting and hosting the podcast and keep the great interviews coming.

New York Born and raised multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, producer, and songwriter, Augie Bello’s musical style is distinctly eclectic and incorporates elements of funk, pop, r&b, jazz and electronic music. Taking influence from artists including, Allen Stone, Michael Brecker, Mura Masa, Amy Winehouse, and multiple others has given him an extremely unique sound. 

Soon after starting college at The New School for Jazz, Bello realized that with music as a career, he needed to create his own opportunities and success. With this knowledge, Bello started to post videos of his music to Instagram in 2018. Since then, he has grown a following of over 59k people who are eager to hear his original music. Through Instagram, Bello has met and recorded with multiple artists including, Teddy Swims, Austin Kolbe and many others. 

Since the beginning of his musical journey, Bello has been bringing his comedic personality and unique style into everything he does. With each day, his goal is to make someone smile and this shines through with the music he plays and creates.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this interview, taken during the NAMM Show in January 2020, we talked about: 

• How he’s built a large following on social media
• How he makes the transition from the practice room to the stage
• The best goal to have as a performer 
• His mindset for playing at jams
• How to perform for your audiences
• How he approaches altissimo – he shares the exact fingerings he uses
• How he performs split tones
• His latest single at the time, Candy
• And so much more!

Wanna support the show?

Become a Patron, and for as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

This week, I had the pleasure of interviewing saxophonist and author, Katja Rieckermann.

We had done an interview at NAMM, but the noise level was so out of control, we decided to do a separate interview now. 

Katja, originally from the northern part of Germany in a small town called Luebeck, did not start playing the saxophone until age 21. It took a number of years and a bit of a struggle until she made the leap to move to the U.S. and in particular, Los Angeles, CA.

She has performed with rock bands Scorpions and Saga, and has been in television and films like Ally McBeal and Star Trek Nemesis.

In 2001, she got the opportunity to perform with Rod Stewart on his Human World Tour, and continued performing with him for 15 more years.

Since then, she has also performed with Carole King, Al Green, Jeff Goldblum, Carlos Santana, Mary J. Blige, Toto and many others.

She has 3 studio albums out, with guest artists such as Arturo Sandoval and Joe Bonamassa. One of her big singles, Walkin’ the Dog did well on the charts in 2015.

She’s performed with Lady Gaga at the Grammy Awards and also opened up for Tower of Power in Pasadena in 2019.

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this interview, we talked about: 

• Katja’s journey starting the saxophone in her early 20’s
• How she started her performance career from nothing when she moved from Germany to Los Angeles
• Tips for networking in a new location 
• What it was like touring with mega star Rod Stewart for almost 15 years
• Her approach to playing recorded solos vs creating her own
• Katja’s solo career, and how it has evolved
• Her process for creating her 101 Soulful Funk Licks book, and you’ll hear her demo some of the cool licks
• And much more!

Help support the show & get behind-the-scenes footage not shared anywhere else!

Visit www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to become a patron & help keep the great interviews coming.

Today’s guest is non-other than the young phenom, Alex Hahn, a multi-award winning saxophonist, educator and composer based in Los Angeles, California.

He recently won 1st place at the Michael Brecker International Saxophone Competition, graduated with his 2nd masters from the prestigious Thelonius Monk Institute, performed and studied with Herbie Hancock, and recorded on Michael Bublé’s last two Grammy Nominated albums.

He is a 6-Time Downbeat Magazine Award Winner, 3-Time Next Generation Jazz Festival Outstanding Soloist, 1st Place Winner in the North American Saxophone Alliance Jazz Saxophone Competition, and winner of the Perform with Mintzer International Saxophone Competition.

Alex has taught all over the world including the Panama Jazz Festival, Sitka Jazz Festival, and at International Jazz Day in Havana,Cuba and St. Petersburg, Russia.

Chris Potter has said of Alex: “Alex has a real melodic gift in his writing and playing”

Alex is endorsed by D’Addario Woodwinds, Andreas Eastman Saxophones and Key Leaves.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this interview, we talked about: 

• How to get past performance anxiety
• The pros and cons of working with backing tracks
• The most important character trait for success 
• Hand position tips 
• What it was like competing in the Michael Brecker International Saxophone competition – he shares priceless info around 5 minutes into our conversation
• What he likes most about his Eastman saxophones
• You’ll hear him play solo saxophone on the tune, Cherokee
• He’s joined by Rajiv Halim to perform Bag’s Groove
• And much more!

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts?

All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming.

If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site, 

https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Author, businesswoman, composer and top-level saxophonist, Mindi Abair, has defined her own niche in the saxophone and music world.

She debuted her solo career with her first album in 1999, and has recorded 11 more albums since then, and garnered 2 Grammy nominations.

Mindi has performed with Aerosmith, Bruce Springsteen, Smokey Robinson, Trombone Shorty, the Backstreet Boys, Teena Marie, Rick Braun, Dave Koz, and many others.

She has been the featured saxophonist on American Idol for a few seasons. Mindi also was featured on the Late Show with David Letterman and the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

She has recently performed and recorded her original Blues music with the Boneshakers and in 2018, they won 8 Independent Blues Awards.

Mindi wrote the book, How To Play Madison Square Garden – A Guide To Stage Performance, created the website http://www.prettygoodforagirl.net to celebrate women, and has served almost 10 years as an LA Chapter Governor, President and National Trustee for The Recording Academy. 

In 2019, Mindi launched Reserve Tastings Wine company, a lifestyle company merging wine + music with members-only exclusive wines paired with curated playlists, label-art and branded wine and music festivals.

This was an enlightening conversation no matter what genre you perform, whether it’s Rock, Blues, Bebop or Classical music.

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this interview, we talked about: 

• The huge influence her dad had on shaping her career
• What Joe Viola repeatedly said to her as a student at the Berklee School of Music
• How George Garzone changed the way she heard music 
• Stories from touring with Aerosmith (this is R-rated!) 
• What it was like performing with Bruce Springsteen
• Why she wrote her book, How to Play Madison Square Garden, and what was missing from college music classes
• The process of creating her own mouthpiece with Theo Wanne
• How she got into the lifestyle wine business
• And much more!

Want access to behind-the-scenes interviews not seen anywhere else, along with searchable transcripts of the shows?

With a small monthly donation of $2 or more, keep the great interviews coming by becoming a patron.

Head on over to our Patreon site to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Having been born in Canada, grown up in Nigeria, studied music at University of North Texas, and touring in places such as Siberia, Jeff Antoniuk, truly brings a world-wide experience to his performance and teaching. 

Jeff has performed with Tim Hagans, Sherrie Maricle, Ingrid Jensen, Walt Weiskopf and Marcus Miller. He has fronted his own bands as a performer and composer, winning accolades from JazzTimes Magazine.

Jeff is a well-respected educator, having conducted over 2500 jazz masterclasses all over the world. He started the Maryland Summer Jazz Camp 15 years ago, and is the founder and creator of JazzWire.net, an online jazz education learning resource and community for adult amateur jazz players.

We had the most fun conversation!

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this interview, we talked about: 

• What Jeff thinks about when he tries out ligatures
• Accessories and how they affect our playing, both mentally and physically 
• The biggest benefits from online learning
• How he determines his rubric for teaching adult students in his JazzWire.net community
• The distinction between practicing about music vs practicing music
• And most importantly, the hair products he uses
• And more

Help us bring more amazing interviews to you, AND get extra special Bonus content when you become a patron!

More info is HERE

Saxophonist, composer, educator Derek Brown, has performed over 200 international shows and in every state in the US as part of his Fifty-Fifty tour. He has well over 30 million social media views of his unique and revolutionary way of playing the saxophone, and has been featured on NPR’s Weekend Edition. 

We featured Derek for our very first episode here on the Everything Saxophone Podcast. You can find that episode on our site, saxophonepodcast.com and wherever you listen to podcasts.

Donna caught up with Derek at the NAMM 2020 show in Anaheim for a brief interview and a special performance.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

This episode was sponsored by:

Rovner Products

Key Leaves

In this interview, we talked about: 

• Derek’s latest projects, and how he has been able to be so innovative amongst all the noise out there
• How Derek created a true way to articulate triple tonguing on the saxophone 
• His approach to composing for Solo Sax and for big bands
• And more

Wanna show your love and support for the show?

Become a patron!

Patrons get access to bonus behind-the-scenes interviews not seen anywhere else, along with searchable transcripts of the shows.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming.

If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site. 

https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Saxophonist, composer and educator, Rajiv Halim, performs regularly with his Rajiv Halim Quintet in the greater Chicago area.

Rajiv was the saxophonist for the eclectic band, Kids These Days, and released an EP that garnered praise from the Chicago Tribune, NY Times and Huffington Post.

Rajiv has also won awards as a solo artist, having placed 2nd in the Saxophone Idol competition sponsored by Keilworth in 2013. He also took 2nd place in the 2014 Taichung International Saxophone Competition in Taiwan.

He has performed and recorded with artists such as Jennifer Hudson, Chance the rapper, Ernie Watts and many others.

Rajiv is a Key Leaves artist, and we got the chance to chat at the Key Leaves booth at the NAMM 2020 Show.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this interview, we talked about: 

• His latest album, Foundation, available here: https://www.rajivhalim.com/music
• His approach to songwriting – he shares some good tips here
• Rajiv’s tip for getting a huge tone
• Tips for trying out horns and equipment
• Breathing Gym resource: https://amzn.to/39dGrMd 
• And more

Want to show your love and support for the Everything Saxophone Podcast?

Become a Patron! For as little as $2 a month, you get access to behind the scenes Bonus footage, PLUS searchable transcripts from the episodes.

Just go HERE to keep the show going.

Jody Espina is the founder, president and designer of JodyJazz Saxophone & Clarinet Mouthpieces. He is a highly regarded Jazz saxophonist, clarinetist, and flutist with a unique and personal sound and is also a respected Jazz educator.

He has taught in High Schools and Colleges in the United States and Spain, but because of the tremendous success of his mouthpieces, had to give up full-time teaching to devote all his time to his company.

Jody still gives Master Classes and Clinics all over the world on subjects such as sound production, practice techniques and improvising. 

Jody has done studio work, performed in the pit Orchestras on Broadway, and performed live with artists such as Mel Torme, Milton Berle, Lew Soloff, Dave Douglas and many others.

He studied mouthpiece design with the legendary Santy Runyon for many years.

JodyJazz.com enjoys the highest rating among saxophone mouthpiece companies on the World Wide Web (as rated on Alexa.com). As a player, Jody knows the importance of intimately knowing the products that he is making and selling that is why in addition to Jody, the JodyJazz crew includes three working professional recording saxophonists.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this interview, we talked about: 

• The 20th Year Celebration Platinum DV limited edition series mouthpieces
• New products out for 2020
• Who the new HR Dark Saxophone mouthpiece is best for
• A new acquisition that is huge for the JodyJazz company
• And so much more

Support the Show!

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Chika Inoue, has been praised for her beautiful tone, acute sensitivity and virtuosic technique. She has received numerous performance awards in competitions, lavishing praise as a soloist and chamber musician. Chika has performed internationally at major venues, appearing as soloist and chamber musician in the United States, Germany, Italy, China, and Japan.

Chika transcribes and performs works beyond the standard classical repertoire, performing works of violin, clarinet, oboe, flute, voice and piano, expanding the limits of the saxophone technique and artistry.

A native of Osaka, Japan, Chika spent most of her youth in Frankfurt, Germany and San Diego, California.

She is currently on faculty at Los Angeles City College as well as the California State University, Dominguez Hills. 

Chika is endorsed by Vandoren, Selmer, Key Leaves, and LeFreque.

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this interview, we talked about: 

• How to shape your sound to create color/timbre
• Why singing her piano parts helped her overall musicality
• Her #1 tips for saxophone students of all ages
• The difference between projecting your sound for classical performances vs. popular music
• The benefits and problems of having perfect pitch
• Repertoire recommendations
• The benefits of transcribing classical music from other instruments
• And more

Become a supporter of the Everything Saxophone Podcast!

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Meet Saxophonist, Author, Producer, Composer and Arranger Caleb Chapman.

For the past 22 years, Caleb has run CC Soundhouse in Utah. His bands, comprised of musicians ages 12-18, are regarded as some of the finest in the world, and have received dozens of awards, including a combined 52 of the prestigious DownBeat Awards and many more.

Caleb’s flagship ensemble, the Crescent Super Band, has a long list of performance credits that includes many of the world’s most prestigious jazz festivals

In 2011, Caleb was named the “John LaPorta International Jazz Educator of the Year,” one of the highest honors in music education. He was also President of JEN, the Jazz Education Network.

He has appeared with artists as varied as GRAMMY-winning bassist, Christian McBride and Neon Trees frontman, Tyler Glenn. He has performed the National Anthem on solo saxophone at various NBA games.

In 2013,  Caleb wrote The Articulate Jazz Musician, with Dave Matthews Band saxophonist and multi-GRAMMY winner, Jeff Coffin. This book provides a cohesive way to articulate the jazz language. He also co-authored, Rehearsing the Jazz Band, with Mary Jo-Papich.

Caleb is an artist and clinician for Yamaha Saxophones, D’Addario Reeds, JodyJazz Mouthpieces, and Planet Wave Cables.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• His journey starting his music school in 1998
• Music education opportunities in Utah
• Future plans for expanding the CC Soundhouse model
• His performance experiences playing all styles of music, including ska
• His new American Songbook and originals project with the nephew of Donny Osmond
• How to be an effective music teacher
• And more

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In our latest series of interviews from the NAMM 2020 Show in Anaheim, Donna interviewed Saxophonist, Producer, Composer and Arranger Darren Rahn. Darren has had multiple #1 singles on the Billboard Contemporary jazz charts over the years, and has produced artists such as Najee, Dave Koz, Riley Richard and many others. 

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

We talked about:

• Darren’s advice for recording in a studio
• His experience performing with and producing Dave Koz’s latest Christmas album 
• Darren’s interesting analogy for creating and performing music
• How to find your voice
• The role your equipment should play, and he shares some gems he’s found
• And more

Your support for the Everything Saxophone Podcast would be greatly appreciated!

Please go to our Patreon site and for a small monthly donation, you can help defray the costs of presenting and hosting the podcast and keep the great interviews coming.

In this episode, Donna interviewed Hans Kuijt, from LefreQue.com, a Dutch-based company that won the School Band and Orchestra award for innovative technology at the recent NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

• Why Hans created this accessory
• How the LefreQue works, and why he can claim that it helps someone’s tone
• How to use the LefreQue
• and more!

Wanna support the show?

Become a Patron, and for as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

Matt Otto is one of my favorite saxophone players and teachers. Matt’s approach to the language and creativity is one of the most important voices in the jazz world. His amazing website is a treasure trove of lessons, advice, and wisdom on being the best player you can be. Matt has lived and played all over the world and brings that experience to our conversation. Matt lives in Kansas City and is currently the Assistant Professor of Jazz Studies at Kansas University (KU)  teaching Jazz Theory and Performance, Jazz Combo 1 and private lessons.

Please enjoy my conversation with Matt Otto!

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Living and playing in Japan and what it’s like to experience such a different culture.
• Matt’s most important teachers and what they did to help shape his voice.
• Matt’s struggles with carpal tunnel and RSI and what players can do to prevent and recover from these problems.
• Matt’s important emphasis on aural skills and what they can do for your playing.
• Matt answers our famous 5 questions!

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Blues/Funk/Soul Saxophonist, Songwriter and Singer Vanessa Collier has been creating quite a stir in the Blues world, performing in many Blues festivals all over the country, being nominated for Blues and Songwriting Awards  and receiving accolades from Blues Blast Magazine, and epic Blues artists such as Buddy Guy and Joe Louis Walker.

Vanessa has released two critically acclaimed albums (2014’s Heart, Soul & Saxophone and 2017’s Meeting My Shadow), and released her highly anticipated third album, Honey Up, in July 2018. Honey Up spent 9 weeks atop the Billboard Blues Album Charts Top 15, 3 months on the Living Blues Charts at #10 and #23.

There’s so much more she’s accomplished in such a short time- we’ll have the link to her Bio in the show notes.…

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this show, we talked about:

• Her experiences studying with the late great Chris Vidala

• Her performing experiences with Bluegrass/Country artist Kathy Mattea

• An influential songwriting teacher from Berklee College of Music

• How to keep good time when performing with others

• The role of the instruments in a band, and how it influences your soloing choices

• The importance of tracing the lineage

• How studying voice helped her saxophone sound

• How to comp & vary the texture

• And more

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts?

All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming.

If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site, https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

Saxophonist, Songwriter and Producer Michael Lington has been topping the Contemporary Jazz charts and winning many awards for over 2 decades with his 11 albums and hundreds of live shows. 

Soul music really spoke to him at an early age, and Michael’s playing can be described as a mixture of King Curtis and Earl Bostic, with a serving of Dave Koz, a smattering of David Sanborn and you have Michael Lington.

In addition to performing as a front-man, one of his specialties is performing with great singers, such as Bobby Caldwell and Randy Crawford. 

His brand new album, and first Christmas album, A Foreign Affair Christmas, features a Who’s Who of artists, such as Dave Koz, Vince Gill, Rick Braun and others. It’s a unique album with some twists to some classic songs from all over the world.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this show, we talked about:

• Michael’s background in Copenhagen, Denmark

• How he gets his amazing full tone and his influences

• How listening to singers helped him create melodies

• His interesting variation on long tones that brings his tone to the next level

• The most important thing to work on in your practice routine

• Advice he received from James Moody

• His songwriting approach to his new Christmas album, and how he performed one of the tracks in 1 take

• The priceless advice he got from touring with Barry Manilow

• His thoughts on equipment and reeds

• And more

Want access to behind-the-scenes interviews not seen anywhere else, along with searchable transcripts of the shows?

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This week we welcome one of the top saxophonists in the New York area, Andrew Gould. Andrew is a full time freelance musician doing some very interesting things and loving every minute of it. Andrew has performed with James Moody, Ron Carter, Benny Golson, Wallace Roney, Jon Faddis, The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, the Mambo Legends Orchestra, David Weiss, Bobby Sanabria, Ray Angry and many more. Andrew was a 2013 Thelonious Monk Saxophone Competition Semi Finalist and has been featured on multiple GRAMMY nominated recordings. He has been involved with recording for MTV, Universal Records, Warner Bros Music, and Capitol Records for world famous artists including Fifth Harmony, Mac Miller, 88 Keys, Sebastian Kole and more. He has also performed live on the Today Show, ABC News, WBGO Radio, and has been featured on the Amazon Prime series “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” with the Bobby Sanabria Multiverse Big Band.

Andrew is a really down to earth guy and I had a blast talking to him. He dropped a lot of knowledge in this conversation and anyone from aspiring musicians to seasoned veterans will enjoy this no doubt.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Andrew’s journey coming up with music and the saxophone.
• Attending SUNY Purchase and then Manhattan School of Music.
• How Andrew handles all of the roles demanded of him in his day to day life.
• Making a living as a full time musician.
• Andrew answers our famous five questions!

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Back when I was in high school, I attended some jazz workshops on Long Island, and I met Andy Farber at a couple of them. We became friends, and even back then I was astounded by the knowledge he had of jazz recordings and artists.

Well, our show today will be like a jazz history lesson for you.

The people that Andy and his family have worked with are among the Who’s Who of Jazz, and the details about some of those performances and composing and arranging jobs are really interesting.

We focused a lot on the music, which is important because it’s the music that we play. The instrument is just the voice or vehicle for our expression. At the end, we get into some more saxophone-specific talk, with his recommendations on horns and mouthpieces.

Let me tell you a little about Andy…

A Long Island native from an artistic family, Andy Farber started his studies on clarinet at the age of 8, and then quickly moved over to saxophone the following year. He attended many jazz camps and workshops during his high school years (USDAN, Manhattan School of Music, Jamey Aebersold).

He studied composition and arranging with Carl Strommen and his uncle Mitch Farber, and continued his studies at the Manhattan School of Music, where he studied with David Berger, and Mike  Abeme. He won the Manny Albam prize for jazz composition. 

He has continued to compose, arrange and perform, and has worked with Jon Hendricks, Shirley Horn, Bobby Short, Joe Lovano, Joe Temperley, Stevie Wonder, and many others.

He is the Musical Director for the BMI Composers Workshop, and teaches Jazz Composition and Arranging at Juilliard.

The LJCO has commissioned a work from Andy to be performed in April, 2020.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this show, we talked about:

• What is education? Andy’s thoughts on this
• How he became friends with Wynton Marsalis and has been performing with him and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra (LCJO) since 1995
• What he feels is missing from some artists today
• Andy’s recommendations for who to research for jazz composition and saxophone history to build your foundation
• A resource (under $100) that Andy finds indispensable for transcribing
• His thoughts on doubling
• Andy’s advice on equipment, and what NOT to do
• His suggestions for learning tunes, based on Barry Harris’ method
• And more

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Become a patron!

Patrons get access to bonus behind-the-scenes interviews not seen anywhere else, along with searchable transcripts of the shows.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming.

If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site. 

https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone

I have never laughed so much and had so much fun with one of my guests as I did with Theo Wanne. Theo is one of the nicest guys in the saxophone industry and most knowledgeable individuals in the world when it comes to the history, design, and elements that make a great mouthpiece. It isn’t every day that I get to speak with a world authority on what is, perhaps, the most important piece of equipment that we own as saxophonists. This episode was really special for me.

Theo started his manufacturing career early building professional bicycle frames by hand. Theo then turned his love of improvisation into becoming a saxophone repair technician and expert mouthpiece refacer under the direction of the legendary Master Refacer, Bob Carpenter. Theo worked long hours for many years turning thousands of vintage mouthpieces and saxophones into gems. Creating beautiful sound became his passion, and he soon became known as the ‘go to’ guy for vintage equipment.

Theo now owns one of the world’s most popular mouthpiece companies under his own name, Theo Wanne Saxophone Mouthpieces.

There is so much information in this episode, it’s a real treat.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

Some of the things we talked about:

• Studying the best mouthpieces ever made to see what made them tick.
• Learning to reface a mouthpiece and how that led Theo to designing his own pieces.
• The different elements to a mouthpiece and what effect they have on the sound including material, facing curve, tip opening, baffle, and chamber.
• How Theo embraces technology to make his design and manufacturing process second to none.
• Theo’s website and how it is educating people on the history and beauty of saxophone mouthpieces.

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Become a Patron! For as little as $2 a month, you get access to behind-the-scenes Bonus footage, PLUS searchable transcripts from the episodes.

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Saxophonist, Songwriter/Composer and Vocalist Grace Kelly is on top of the music world as of late.

In 2018, she was the Grand Prize winner for the John Lennon Songwriting Contest in the Country Music category.

She appears regularly in the house band for the Late Show with Stephen Colbert , and was highlighted on screen as a jazz soloist for the emmy-nominated Amazon series Bosch.

Grace broke open new territory with her Facebook Live stream of her Go Brooklyn album recording session, a fully-choreographed experience that thousands of fans enjoyed all over the world.

She has won multiple performance and songwriter awards over the years.

She wrote her first song at 7 years old, recorded her first CD at 12, orchestrated and performed an original composition with the Boston Pops Orchestra at 14, and performed at President Obama’s inauguration at 16. As a bandleader, Grace has performed in over 800 concerts in over 30 countries.

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this show, we talked about:

• How Grace prepares for performances with special guests

• The roles of a band leader – it’s more than you think

• How she picks her band members, and it’s not just about musical skill

• The importance of branding

• The book she recommends all artists read

• How to prepare mentally for a performance

• The one thing you need to consider before moving to a music city

• Why feeling uncomfortable is a GOOD thing

• The other skills that are important to stand out as a performer today 

• Her motto - ”just do it!”

• The importance of storytelling 

• And so much more

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Kenyon Carter is a saxophonist, recording artist, and jazz educator who has spent more than twenty five years helping countless people become better musicians.

Kenyon has worked with middle school and high school students as a band director and frequent honor band clinician, aspiring saxophonists as a university saxophone and jazz instructor, and other musicians across the globe through his popular video lessons and private Skype coaching.

Kenyon is also an internationally known recording artist having released three full length albums. Six tracks from those albums went on to become charting singles and can be heard on contemporary jazz radio around the world.

Drawing from his diverse experiences, Kenyon is known for making the complex simple. His most recent project, “Bebop Boot Camp,” uses cutting edge brain science, clever analogies, and the power of deliberate practice to help musicians play better solos and truly improvise authentic bebop lines in just eight weeks.

Although originally from Georgia, Kenyon is currently traveling the United States with his wife Chris and their dog Maggie in a forty foot motor coach exploring America.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode:

• Growing up in Georgia and falling in love with music.
• The teachers that made a huge influence on Kenyon’s musical life.
• Bebop Boot Camp and how it can turn very complicated ideas into valuable lessons and exercises.
• What it’s like to be traveling the country and meeting musicians from all over.
• Kenyon answers our 5 questions!

Your support for the Everything Saxophone Podcast would be greatly appreciated!

Please go to our Patreon site and for a small monthly donation, you can help defray the costs of presenting and hosting the podcast and keep the great interviews coming.

At 22 years old, Austin Gatus has had many accomplishments in his young career. 

Austin has performed with Dave Koz locally here in Los Angeles, as well as on the Dave Koz Jazz Cruises to Europe and Alaska. He sat in with the Average White Band a couple of times on a recent tour, and was a featured artist with Kenny G with the Orange County Symphony and San Diego Symphony.

Austin has also had pregame performances for the San Diego Padres, Los Angeles Clippers, NBA All-Star Game in Phoenix, and UCLA Bruins Basketball.

He recently wrote and performed in his own musical, performed at UCLA’s Royce Hall celebrating Filipino culture.

Austin, a cancer survivor, performs at charity events helping to fight kids’ cancer, having performed for the Starlight Foundation and Rady’s Children’s Hospital.

His original music, a mix of electronic, pop and Lo-Fi styles is featured on his latest album, Motions, available on Apple Music and Spotify.

Austin is endorsed by JodyJazz and Rovner Products

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this show, we talked about:

• Playing ballads to improve your tone

• How to incorporate transcribed licks into a solo

• His mentors, Dave Koz and Kenny G, and how he met them

• His approach to pop saxophone

• And more

Wanna support the show?

Become a Patron, and for as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

Saxophone nerds unite! This week’s episode is really fun and informative when it comes to thinking about the history of the amazing horns we play and some of the gear surrounding the instrument. Derek has made it his mission to be as knowledgeable as possible about vintage and modern saxophones and mouthpieces. Derek is also a fantastic saxophonist and woodwind artist based out of the Salt Lake City. You’ll know him from his social media accounts as Sax Spy where he features other players horns and the stories that go with them.

Derek is an important person in the saxophone world. He makes his knowledge readily available to anyone who wants it. With the plethora of equipment we have out there these days, this cannot be overlooked. If you’re not following Derek, you should be!

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Derek’s ‘Vintie or Mintie’ series and how he came up with it.
• Things to look for when checking out vintage Selmer instruments.
• The history and characteristics of the most sought after vintage mouthpiece.
• How to get a cheap mouthpiece to sound and play great.
• A simple exercise to test your mouthpiece.
• Sax Spy end plugs and the beauty of a hand made product.

Wanna support the show?

Become a Patron, and for as little as a $2 donation each month, you get searchable transcripts for the episodes, Bonus videos with extra tips and content, a full Podcast directory, and the ability to suggest future guests.

Go to our Patreon site for more info.

We truly appreciate our supporters, who help keep the podcast running!

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

• The one thing you shouldn’t do if you want to keep the gig
• The crazy ear training exercise one of his teachers put him through
• The importance of your mindset in performance and practice
• How Steve got into online education and mouthpiece reviews
• What Steve looks for in a mouthpiece
• Steve’s funny as a brain tumor story
• And a whole lot more!

Help support the show & get behind-the-scenes footage not shared anywhere else!

Visit www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone to become a patron & help keep the great interviews coming.

This week we caught up with Kris Urbanski for an exciting conversation. Kris is a saxophonist and educator based out of London and has been dazzling audiences around the world with his amazing sound and approach to the instrument for some years now. Kris is really pushing the boundaries of jazz music through his playing and compositions and has made quite a following for fans of the music the world over. Kris has been featured in many international competitions over the years including first prize in the Saxophone Idol Competition, the Taichung International Saxophone Competition, and the Hoeliaart Saxophone Competition. He has also been a featured guest and clinician at conferences and events around the globe including the World Saxophone Congress held in Croatia in 2018.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• How Kris got his start in music growing up in Poland.
• Moving to the jazz center of Europe in London to pursue his career.
• Coming up with your own exercises.
• Why Kris doesn’t write many things down and prefers to learn by ear.
• Approaching technique through classical playing.

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The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

• the best way to get endorsed
• her recommendations for a successful practice routine
• the jazz scene back then vs. now (and some of her favorite current performers)
• one great piece of advice from Joe Viola
• one thing she feels players should focus on more
• how to internalize a melody

Help support the show & get behind-the-scenes footage not shared anywhere else!

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Pauline Eveno is the Co-Founder and CEO of the Shape Your Own Sound mouthpiece company based out of Paris. We caught up with Pauline to talk about her studies in acoustics and how she came to find herself making mouthpieces for saxophone players all over the world. SYOS has been working closely with some of the top players around the globe to figure out what makes a great mouthpiece. With their 3D printing technology, they can tailor a mouthpiece to any preference. Pauline goes into great detail about the process and what she has learned through her time at the helm of this company.

The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Why Pauline chose to study acoustics and what goes into designing a mouthpiece.
• How SYOS was born and has continued to grow.
• Working closely with the artists to make the best mouthpiece possible.
• The design process of a 3D printed mouthpiece.
• The difference in material between hard rubber, metal, and ABS plastic.
• New and inventive design elements of SYOS mouthpieces.

Did you know you can get a complete listing of all our shows, as well as Bonus videos and searchable transcripts?

All you need to do is become a Patron!

Patrons play a huge role in helping to defray the costs of storing each episode’s video and audio, and producing and hosting the show.

And, with their small monthly donation of $2 or more, they help keep the great interviews coming.

If you want to become a patron and support the show, head on over to our Patreon site, https://www.patreon.com/everythingsaxophone