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Episode web page: https://tinyurl.com/2b3dz2z8 ----------------------- Rate Insights Unlocked and write a review If you appreciate Insights Unlocked , please give it a rating and a review. Visit Apple Podcasts, pull up the Insights Unlocked show page and scroll to the bottom of the screen. Below the trailers, you'll find Ratings and Reviews. Click on a star rating. Scroll down past the highlighted review and click on "Write a Review." You'll make my day. ----------------------- In this episode of Insights Unlocked , we explore the evolving landscape of omnichannel strategies with Kate MacCabe, founder of Flywheel Strategy. With nearly two decades of experience in digital strategy and product management, Kate shares her insights on bridging internal silos, leveraging customer insights, and designing omnichannel experiences that truly resonate. From the early days of DTC growth to today’s complex, multi-touchpoint customer journeys, Kate explains why omnichannel is no longer optional—it’s essential. She highlights a standout example from Anthropologie, demonstrating how brands can create a unified customer experience across digital and physical spaces. Whether you’re a marketing leader, UX strategist, or product manager, this episode is packed with actionable advice on aligning teams, integrating user feedback, and building a future-proof omnichannel strategy. Key Takeaways: ✅ Omnichannel vs. Multichannel: Many brands think they’re omnichannel, but they’re really just multichannel. Kate breaks down the difference and how to shift toward true integration. ✅ Anthropologie’s Success Story: Learn how this brand seamlessly blended physical and digital experiences to create a memorable, data-driven customer journey. ✅ User Feedback is the Secret Weapon: Discover how continuous user testing—before, during, and after a launch—helps brands fine-tune their strategies and avoid costly mistakes. ✅ Aligning Teams for Success: Cross-functional collaboration is critical. Kate shares tips on breaking down silos between marketing, product, and development teams. ✅ Emerging Tech & Omnichannel: Instead of chasing the latest tech trends, Kate advises businesses to define their strategic goals first—then leverage AI, AR, and other innovations to enhance the customer experience. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "Omnichannel isn’t just about being everywhere; it’s about creating seamless bridges between every touchpoint a customer interacts with." – Kate MacCabe 💬 "Companies that truly listen to their users—through qualitative and quantitative insights—are the ones that thrive in today’s competitive landscape." – Kate MacCabe Resources & Links: 🔗 Learn more about Flywheel Strategy 🔗 Connect with Kate MacCabe on LinkedIn 🔗 Explore UserTesting for customer insights for marketers…
Content provided by Donna Schwartz. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Donna Schwartz or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
Each week, your Host Donna Schwartz brings you interviews, news, and reviews with some of the most exciting saxophonists in the world today. This is the place for the saxophone community to come together and learn through getting into the minds of our saxophone heroes. Enjoy the show and make sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode!
Content provided by Donna Schwartz. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Donna Schwartz or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
Each week, your Host Donna Schwartz brings you interviews, news, and reviews with some of the most exciting saxophonists in the world today. This is the place for the saxophone community to come together and learn through getting into the minds of our saxophone heroes. Enjoy the show and make sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode!
Ever wondered how a violinist 🎻 became a master of the saxophone 🎷? This week on the podcast, Donna sits down with the incredible Dr. Scott Litroff—who shares his journey from picking up the violin to finding his true voice on the sax. It all started with a moment of inspiration (and a little nudge from Perry Goldstein), but what truly set Scott apart was his approach to music: letting his ears be his guide, embracing mistakes as stepping stones, and developing a fearless performance philosophy. Scott also takes us behind the scenes of his latest single, "Never Forget," sharing how it was produced and the creative process behind its powerful sound. Don't miss these episode highlights: 🎷 Meeting Scott at NAMM 2025 🎷 His introduction to music 🎷 Your ears should be your guide 🎷 How he transitioned his interest from violin to saxophone 🎷 Influence of Perry Goldstein 🎷 How Scott became lyrical in the altissimo range 🎷 Tips on playing the altissimo 🎷 Mistakes are a path to the right note 🎷 Opportunities he got while studying at Stony Brook University 🎷 How Scott developed his performance philosophy to not worry about failing 🎷 A powerful quote from Yo Yo Ma 🎷 How studying other instruments helped Scott become a better improviser and musician 🎷 How the legacy of the masters can be a blessing but also a curse 🎷 Social acceptance 🎷 Importance of healthy practice sessions 🎷 Letting go of this 1 belief will allow you to improvise with more freedom 🎷 Learning an instrument is a journey 🎷 Working with Darren Rahn 🎷 Finding the right mouthpiece and reed 🎷 His gear and recommendations 🎷 What he likes most about P Mauriat 🎷 His ‘Never Forget’ single with Darren Rahn 🎷 Other projects Click here to discover more about Dr. Scott Litroff & P Mauriat! Become a Patron today! Love our content? Want even more behind-the-scenes access? By becoming a Patron, you’ll get exclusive perks such as: A complete, always-updated listing of all our shows Bonus videos packed with behind-the-scenes content Searchable transcripts for every episode Early access to episodes—hear them before anyone else! Your support keeps the show running and fuels our ability to bring you the best content possible. And the best part? You can join for as little as $2 a month! 💡 Be part of something bigger. Join us on Patreon today! Check out the new P. Mauriat Venus Alto and Tenor saxophones, made of a 95% copper alloy with silver keywork and Black Pearl key touches. Great artists such as Kirk Whalum, Derek Brown, Roxy Coss, Adam Larson, Jason Marshall, Khari Allen Lee, Laura Dreyer, Dan White, and Terell Stafford have trusted their sound to P. Mauriat Musical Instruments. See your local dealer for details!…
We’re back! 🎷🎙️ After a short break, Everything Saxophone Podcast returns with an incredible episode featuring Jason Gay! Donna sits down with Jason for a fascinating conversation about his journey in music, the gear he swears by, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Here's the highlights of the episode: 🎷 How Donna met Jason 🎷 Why ligature matters 🎷 Why Jason loves Jody Jazz mouthpieces 🎷 More onto his gear and set-up 🎷 How he got into music 🎷 Lesson from Joe Viola 🎷 Tip from Eddie Bayard 🎷 Why improving his tone takes most of his practice time 🎷 Similarities of learning a language to music 🎷 Sidney Bechet and his influence to Jason 🎷 His new book about Sidney Bechet 🎷 How joining the Navy Band opened up many opportunities This episode is packed with inspiration and valuable insights for every saxophonist and music lover. 🎧 Tune in now and let us know your favorite takeaway in the comments! Find Jason Gay's links HERE . Become a Patron today! Love our content? Want even more behind-the-scenes access? By becoming a Patron, you’ll get exclusive perks such as: A complete, always-updated listing of all our shows Bonus videos packed with behind-the-scenes content Searchable transcripts for every episode Early access to episodes—hear them before anyone else! Your support keeps the show running and fuels our ability to bring you the best content possible. And the best part? You can join for as little as $2 a month! 💡 Be part of something bigger. Join us on Patreon today!…
We’re closing out our NAMM 2025 coverage with a must-hear episode! Everything Saxophone Podcast host Donna Schwartz caught up with Theo Wanne , a world-renowned expert in saxophone mouthpiece design and innovation, at the NAMM Show 2025 in Anaheim, CA. With over three decades of experience, Theo has revolutionized how musicians approach sound and craftsmanship. In this episode, he shares insights into the Theo Wanne Essentials Collection , discusses the artistry behind his mouthpieces, and reveals what makes them stand out. Here’s what you’ll discover: 🎷 Introducing the New Theo Wanne Essentials Collection 🎷 Theo's journey of making saxophone mouthpieces 🎷 Options for tip openings 🎷 Other Theo Wanne mouthpiece models 🎷 The distinguishing features in the New Essentials Concert Series 🎷 How Theo Wanne makes quality mouthpieces at an affordable price 🎷 What makes their mouthpiece different and special This is a conversation you don’t want to miss! Tune in now and get an inside look at the innovation shaping the saxophone world. You can find Theo Wanne's info and all their links on our site HERE . That’s a wrap on our final NAMM 2025 episode—thank you for tuning in! 🙌 But we’re just getting started. We have an incredible lineup of guests coming your way, including Jason Gay, Leah Concialdi, and more—each bringing unique perspectives and inspiring stories. Stay tuned for an exciting season of engaging discussions, expert insights, and behind-the-scenes stories you won’t want to miss! Become a Patron today! Love our content? Want even more behind-the-scenes access? By becoming a Patron, you’ll get exclusive perks such as: A complete, always-updated listing of all our shows Bonus videos packed with behind-the-scenes content Searchable transcripts for every episode Early access to episodes—hear them before anyone else! Your support keeps the show running and fuels our ability to bring you the best content possible. And the best part? You can join for as little as $2 a month! 💡 Be part of something bigger. Join us on Patreon today!…
Everything Saxophone Podcast Host, Donna Schwartz, spoke with Sheryl Laukat—CEO & Co-Founder and Dr Randal Clark—Dir of Media & Education of Cannonball Musical Instruments, at the NAMM Show 2025 in Anaheim, CA. In this special episode, we go behind the scenes with Cannonball Instruments at NAMM 2025! We dive into what makes Cannonball saxophones stand out, the secret behind putting a pearl on a lee pipe, and their most popular saxophone loved by pros like Gerald Albright & Eric Darius. Plus, we chat about Cannonball’s legendary jam sessions, their exciting plans for their 30th anniversary, and catch up with Randal Clark on his upcoming music. 🎶🔥 He even gives us an exclusive look at the Cannonball saxophone he’s playing right now and breaks down his current setup. Don't Miss Out: ➡️ What makes Cannonball saxophones different ➡️ Putting a pearl on a lee pipe ➡️ Their most popular saxophone ➡️ Saxophones used by Gerald Albright and Eric Darius ➡️ Cannonball’s jam sessions ➡️ Plans for the 30th anniversary ➡️ What is Randal Clark up to ➡️ His upcoming music ➡️ Showing Cannonball sax he’s currently using ➡️ His set-up ➡️ Where can you check his work and music 🎷 A Huge THANK YOU to Our Amazing Patrons! ✨ Your support means the world to us! Because of you, we can continue creating and sharing incredible saxophone content. When you become a Patron, you're not just supporting the show—you’re joining a passionate community of saxophonists, professionals, and enthusiasts. Plus, you get exclusive perks, including: 🎷 Full access to our ever-growing episode archive 🎥 Bonus behind-the-scenes videos 📜 Searchable transcripts for every episode 🎧 Early access to new episodes—hear them before anyone else! 🎶 Exclusive NAMM Show content—interviews, performances & highlights first! And there’s even more coming—we can’t wait to share it with you! 💡 Be our Patreon for as little as $2 a month and be part of something bigger.…
Everything Saxophone Podcast Host, Donna Schwartz, spoke with Andy Lutz, from ProTec Style Company, at the NAMM Show 2025 in Anaheim, CA. When you buy a new sax, the case it comes with is usually fine… but not always ideal, especially for traveling. While cases have improved over the years, many still aren’t built for the demands of air travel. The Protec compact bari sax case fits most baritone saxophone makes and models, including both low A and low Bb versions. The exterior is made from durable, weather-resistant 1680 ballistic nylon with reinforced stitching. Inside, the case features a shock-absorbing wood frame to protect the instrument. It has a padded handle wrap and durable rope handles for easy carrying, as well as a non-slip adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable transport. The case also includes a large front pocket for accessories and an in-bell storage pouch for the neck and mouthpiece. Here's what we've talked about: 🎷Protec’s latest compact bari sax case 🎷Prototype 🎷Other products 🎷2 piece bass clarinet case prototype A huge THANK YOU to our amazing Patreons! ✨ Your support means the world to us and fuels everything we do. Because of you, we can keep creating, innovating, and bringing even more exciting content your way. When you become a Patron, you’re not just supporting the show—you’re joining an exclusive community of passionate saxophone professionals, players, and enthusiasts who get incredible perks, including: A complete, always-updated listing of all our shows Bonus videos packed with behind-the-scenes content Searchable transcripts for every episode Early access to episodes—hear them before anyone else! Exclusive NAMM Show content: interviews, performances, and highlights—see it first as a Patron! Stay tuned—there’s so much more to come, and we can’t wait to share it with you And the best part? You can join for as little as $2 a month! Be part of something bigger. Join us on Patreon today!…
Everything Saxophone Podcast Host, Donna Schwartz, interviewed Melvin Quinones, Founder of Victory Musical Instruments, and inventor of the World’s First ‘Screwless’ Saxophone! Victory Musical Instruments has gained recognition among musicians and dealers for its craftsmanship and performance. During the interview, Quinones discussed the meticulous design process and the motivation behind creating a ‘screwless’ saxophone—an idea born from his deep understanding of musicians’ needs and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of instrument design. Can’t wait to share this one! If you love game-changing innovations, you’ll want to tune in! We covered: 🎷 Featuring the screwless saxophone 🎷 Why it’s good for those who travel with their saxophone 🎷 Does being screwless have a great impact on its weight? 🎷 Dominating the global market 🎷 Does Sweetwater carry all their models? 🎷 Upcoming projects A huge THANK YOU to our amazing Patreons! ✨ Your support means the world to us and fuels everything we do. Because of you, we can keep creating, innovating, and bringing even more exciting content your way. When you become a Patron, you’re not just supporting the show—you’re joining an exclusive community of passionate saxophone professionals, players, and enthusiasts who get incredible perks, including: A complete, always-updated listing of all our shows Bonus videos packed with behind-the-scenes content Searchable transcripts for every episode Early access to episodes—hear them before anyone else! Exclusive NAMM Show content: interviews, performances, and highlights—see it first as a Patron! Stay tuned—there’s so much more to come, and we can’t wait to share it with you And the best part? You can join for as little as $2 a month! Be part of something bigger. Join us on Patreon today!…
Everything Saxophone Podcast Host, Donna Schwartz, interviewed CEO of Bari Woodwinds, Ron Van Ostenbridge, live at the NAMM Show 2025. If you’re a saxophonist, you know that the right gear can make all the difference. This year at the NAMM Show 2025, Donna had the incredible opportunity to meet with the CEO of Bari Woodwinds for an exclusive interview on my podcast. They dove deep into their newest innovation—the Cobalt Reeds —and more. If you’re as excited about these innovations as I am, you won’t want to miss this episode where we talked about: Bari’s newest cobalt reed It’s characteristics It’s strength availability How is the strength compared to other brands What inspired them to create the cobalt reed How long can it last if used on a daily basis How to tell if the reed has already died Is rotating reeds necessary Demo with Jason Arce What does Jason think of the newest reed from Bari Love our content? Want even more behind-the-scenes access? When you become a Patron, you’re not just supporting the show—you’re joining an exclusive community of passionate saxophone professionals, players, and enthusiasts who get incredible perks, including: A complete, always-updated listing of all our shows Bonus videos packed with behind-the-scenes content Searchable transcripts for every episode Early access to episodes—hear them before anyone else! Exclusive NAMM Show content: interviews, performances, and highlights—see it first as a Patron! Your support doesn’t just unlock these amazing benefits—it powers the show! From video storage and production to hosting and distribution, every contribution helps us keep bringing you the best content possible. And the best part? You can join for as little as $2 a month! Be part of something bigger. Join us on Patreon today!…
Everything Saxophone Podcast Host, Donna Schwartz, interviewed Saxophonist and Educator, Jeremiah True, live at the NAMM Show 2025. With a diverse background spanning orchestral, jazz, theater pits, and rock ‘n roll, Jeremiah True brings a wealth of experience and artistry to every performance. P. Mauriat instruments are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, innovative technology, and timeless beauty. Each instrument is meticulously handmade by experienced technicians, using only premium materials such as high-quality French brass. Through an intricate process of hand-hammering and casting, P. Mauriat creates instruments with unparalleled resonance, offering players a uniquely rich and expressive sound. Musicians who play P. Mauriat instruments can expect excellent responsiveness, a warm and melodic tone, precise intonation, and fast key action that elevates their performance to the next level. To know more about Jeremiah along with other resources in this episode, head on to our website . In this episode, Donna and Jeremiah dive into: P. Mauriat’s latest model - ‘Venus’ for alto and tenor saxophones Does copper alloy affect the weight that much? The new P. Mauriat artists Is changing your set-up necessary when playing different styles of music? Why Jeremiah True loves the Rousseau 3.0 mouthpiece Rolled vs. drawn tone holes - how they affect your sound P. Mauriat’s Touring Case And more! Unlock Exclusive Access and Keep the Show Alive! When you become a Patron, you join an inner circle who get to enjoy exclusive perks like: A complete, always-updated listing of all our shows Bonus videos packed with behind-the-scenes content Searchable transcripts for every episode Early access to episodes—before anyone else! Exclusive NAMM Show content, including interviews, performances, and highlights—watch it first as a Patron! Your support doesn’t just get you these amazing benefits; it keeps the show running! From video storage and production to hosting and distribution, your contribution fuels it all. And the best part? It starts at just $2 a month! 💡 Ready to be part of something big? Head over to our PATREON site today and be a part of the community!…
Everything Saxophone Podcast Host, Donna Schwartz, interviewed Saxophonist, Composer, Educator, Don Braden for Episode 234. We talked about: His early experiences with the saxophone and his first gigs The creation of the Earth Wind and Wonder album His journey to mastering improvisation, including studying the Aebersold books His transition to becoming a professional musician Memorable stories about Wynton Marsalis and Freddie Hubbard, and their influence on his playing All about the melody How his bandmates put their own stamp on the music The surprising role of real, wholesome food in supporting the health of musicians And more! Don Braden has toured globally for over 40 years, leading his own ensembles on saxophone and flute, performing as a special guest, and working with jazz legends like Betty Carter, Wynton Marsalis, and Freddie Hubbard. A prolific composer, he has released 24 CDs as a leader, contributed to over 80 as a sideman, and created music for film and TV, including Nickelodeon and CBS. His latest album, Earth, Wind and Wonder, Volume 2, is available on his website, Spotify, and Bandcamp. As a world-renowned educator, Braden directs the Harvard Jazz Combo Initiative, teaches at the Prins Claus Conservatoire, and leads the Litchfield Jazz Camp and Texas Jazz and Blues Camp. He has also earned awards like the Doris Duke Foundation’s New Works composer’s award and judged prestigious music competitions. Braden endorses the Antigua ProOne tenor saxophone, JodyJazz DV NY mouthpiece, and D’Addario Reserve reeds. For his complete bio, visit our website for this episode saxophonepodcast.com . Be our Patreon! If you're loving the show, consider supporting us to keep these amazing episodes coming! For just $2 a month, you'll gain access to searchable episode transcripts, bonus videos packed with extra tips and content, a complete podcast directory, and the chance to suggest future guests. Head to our Patreon page for more info and join the community that makes it all possible!…
Everything Saxophone Podcast Host, Donna Schwartz, interviewed Mark Overton, Founder of SaxQuest and the National Saxophone Museum. Mark Overton started Saxquest in 2000 with a vision of creating a mecca for saxophone players to find great equipment, share knowledge/learn about their instrument and engage in safe honest transactions with a knowledgeable sales staff in both a brick & mortar retail store and over the Internet. This vision has led to the creation of two ventures, a retail store front-repair shop, with their online store at www.saxquest.com , along with a social media website for saxophone players at www.saxophone.org . Mark has been active in the St. Louis jazz scene since 1993 and founded Code Blue, a Jazz Messengers style sextet and the Saxquest 9-piece Jazz Orchestra. Mark has performed with many jazz ensembles such as the Allegro Jazz Ensemble, Original Knights of Swing, as well as classical ensembles such as the St. Louis Philharmonic Orchestra, St. Louis Youth Symphony, St. Louis Wind Symphony, and others. Saxquest, a family-run business for over 25 years in St Louis, is a woodwind pro-shop specializing in both vintage and new professional model saxophones and clarinets. Located on the 2nd floor of the shop, the Saxquest Saxophone Museum showcases a huge collection of many of the finest, rarest and most historically significant saxophones in the world as well as a collection of vintage saxophone accessories and other historical saxophone memorabilia. The museum is free and open to the public and is a real treasure for the music lover or the eclectic museum goer. The link to Mark’s full Bio, as well as the background information on SaxQuest and the Museum is on our site at https://saxophonepodcast.com Along with getting an overview and tour of the Museum and the SaxQuest shop, we also talked about: The influence of Conn Music in schools Conn experimental horns New invention saxophone Lost Wax mouthpieces How metal mouthpieces started Working on vintage horns Instrument Handling Tips and much more! Timestamps: 00:00 Museum and repair shop overview 05:38 Discussion on St. Louis and connections 12:47 The influence of Conn music in schools 17:12 The Conn Family Bible 23:15 Conn experimental horns 30:18 New invention saxophone 33:15 Lost Wax mouthpieces 38:05 How metal mouthpieces started 40:01 Other unique saxophones 46:02 Exploring the museum and repair shop 49:31 Working on vintage horns 56:33 Instrument Handling Tips 57:39 Case Design Considerations 01:00:50 Long-term Instrument Care 01:02:41 Innovative Drying Solutions 01:03:40 Swab Recommendations 01:07:37 Overview of the Repair Shop This show was proudly sponsored by the Improvisation Made Easy Elite Coaching Program. If you’re a saxophonist with some experience playing (and a little improvising), and you just don’t know what and how to practice to get better at improvisation, CLICK HERE to book your Free Strategy Session call to get clarity on your next steps. Expert saxophone tips straight from top players! 🎷 Our Patreon supporters enjoy access to exclusive advice and insights from the many incredible saxophonists featured on our show - content you won’t find anywhere else! Support the show and gain access to these hidden gems. Learn more on our Patreon site today!…
Saxophonist Mark Hartsuch has differentiated himself by producing amazing horn section recordings and live performances for the world’s top artists. He is most well known for working with India’s top music director, AR Rahman, both in live performance and studio productions. His other collaborations include Ranjit Barot, Mohini Dey, Mr. Eazi, Cece Winans, Bebe Winans, TV networks such as Disney and AE, and others. Mark attended the University of North Texas where he performed in the Grammy nominated One O’Clock Lab Band on Lab 2014 and Lab 2015. Mark is most known for being the founding member, primary composer and arranger of the Dallas Horns, a 3-piece horn section that specializes in tight, funky horn lines. In 2017, the Dallas Horns traveled to India and performed with legendary Indian musicians Louiz Banks, Gino Banks, Rhythm Shaw and others. They also served as the Horn section for the Grammy and Oscar winning artist, AR Rahman. The group also traveled to Qatar for the first and only performance held prior to the 2022 World Cup. Mark’s newest album, India Jazz Casual, is available on Bandcamp HERE . Mark Hartsuch is an endorsed artist with JodyJazz Mouthpieces, Gard Bags, Roland Instruments (AE-30). Get access to Mark's links on our site: https://saxophonepodcast.com TIMESTAMPS 00:00 His introduction to music and how it became his solace 07:44 Differences in trumpet and saxophone playing styles 10:35 Transitioning to professional music 13:40 Experiencing the music industry 20:15 How he got into Indian music 27:20 The different vibe and swing in India 37:15 Mark’s standard of knowing a jazz standard 38:50 How Indian musicians play over the bar line 43:33 Music for musicians vs for the people 45:17 The challenge of balancing artistic integrity 48:31 Changes in popular music trends 51:17 Timelessness of classic songs 54:41 Interplay between melody and color using the song All of Me 56:10 Function of a horn arrangement 01:00:00 3 tenets of great musicians 01:01:06 Developing a full-stack show 01:03:49 The economics of performing 01:07:28 The reality of live performances 01:15:00 Advice for musicians 01:26:14 The intricacy that involves music production 01:34:58 The financial realities of music 01:43:39 The reality of the music industry 01:54:23 Pedagogical approaches to teaching 01:56:14 Developing a comfortable setup 01:59:16 The role of voicing in playing 02:05:42 Understanding air pressure in playing 02:06:29 The role of tongue position in playing 02:12:04 The role of doodle tonguing 02:21:28 The role of the oral cavity in sound production 02:24:34 The importance of enclosures in Bebop and the role of chromatic passing tones 02:33:43 Upcoming Performances and Collaborations 02:36:59 The Decision to Move to Nashville This show was sponsored by the Improvisation Made Easy Elite Coaching Program. If you’re a saxophonist with some experience improvising, and you just don’t know what and how to practice to get better at improvisation, Click HERE to book your Free Strategy Session call to get clarity on your next steps.…
Saxophonist Bennett Wood is a freelance musician, composer and clinician. He was recently appointed as Director of Jazz Studies at Webster University. He previously held academic appointments at the University of Memphis, Mineral Area College, Texas State University, Texas Lutheran University, and Texas A&M University-Kingsville and served as the Interim Director of Education and Community Engagement and Education Coordinator at Jazz St. Louis. Bennett is an experienced bandleader and an in-demand sideman. In addition to leading his own groups at nationally recognized venues, including Crosstown Arts, the Elephant Room, and Jazz St. Louis, Bennett has performed alongside internationally acclaimed musicians including Nat Adderley Jr., Ralph Bowen, Chris Cheek, John Clayton, Alan Ferber, Andre Hayward, Sean Jones, Doug Lawrence, Butch Miles, Allison Miller, Greg Osby, Bruce Saunders, Maria Schneider, Terrell Stafford, and Kenny Werner. Bennett earned a Doctor of Musical Arts from the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. He holds Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Bennett’s debut album, Space In Time, is available now on all streaming platforms. Physical CDs will be available soon on Wood’s website. The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website . In this episode, we talked about: 🎷 Common saxophone embouchure mistake when trying to play softer 🎷 Laryngeal flexibility and Jerry Bergonzi’s No Embouchure Embouchure 🎷 Thoughtful process of teaching that inspires students 🎷 Being aware of the audience’s perspective when performing 🎷 The biggest disservice musicians can do when pursuing teaching 🎷 And much more! If you want to do something well, you have to be willing to be bad at it first - Christopher McBride Looking for pro saxophone tips from top players? Our Patreon supporters enjoy access to unique advice from the many saxophonists featured on our show. These gems are shared nowhere else! Show your support and get more info on our Patreon site .…
Internationally acclaimed saxophonist, composer, and educator Kyle Brooks is a rising performer and pedagogue seasoned by and for the modern music industry. Versed in multicultural idioms, Kyle has and continues to work with organizations that regularly present jazz, rock, hip hop, Bollywood, Malayalam, electronic, and salsa music, just to name a few. As a performer, Kyle has collaborated with artists and organizations such as Tesher, Shayna Steele, Diane Schuur, Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra, Toledo Jazz Orchestra, and more. He can be heard on several recordings ranging from EDM to free jazz. Kyle also works with many grassroots musical endeavors, making contributions to ensembles including Kochuveettil Beats, Third Shore Collective, Jina Brass Band, and more. Featuring lifelong friends and collaborators, his debut album, “Monarch”, features original music inspired by the work of musicians such as Ben Wendel, Terrace Martin, and Marquis Hill. In addition to having a full teaching studio, Kyle has presented clinics and masterclasses across the Midwest, primarily in Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. Kyle is also on the faculty at Triton College. The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website . In this episode, we talked about: 🎷 Why Kyle prefers more resistant reeds 🎷 Putting this one common household item into your bell can solve so many problems 🎷 How he gets students to improvise 🎷 Why we shouldn’t take music personally 🎷 Kyle’s approach to composition 🎷 and much more! Looking for pro saxophone tips from top players? Our Patreon supporters enjoy access to unique advice from the many saxophonists featured on our show. These gems are shared nowhere else! Show your support and get more info on our Patreon site .…
Asha Parkinson is a UK-based saxophonist and composer whose works cross the boundaries of classical, jazz, and world music. Asha was a semi-finalist in the 2016, 2018, and 2020 BBC Young Jazz Musician of the Year competitions. She graduated from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama with a Bachelor of Music Honors (1st class) in September 2020. Her saxophone and jazz teachers have included Mark Lockheart, Iain Ballamy, Christian Forshaw, Carlos Lopez Real, Trish Clowes, Simon Allen, Phil Meadows, Gareth Lockrane, and Nick Beston. She formed her ensemble, Kalpadruma in 2017. Kalpadruma means ‘tree of life’, and her latest album, Possession , features this 14-piece group. The Syrian Crisis (which started in 2011) inspired Asha to create the non-profit group, Voices Beyond Divisions, in 2016, when she was 16. She composed the piece, What War, based on quotations on a theme of peace from the Q’uran, the Talmud, and the Bible, with accompanying music bringing together ‘western’ and ‘eastern’ musical influences. The first concert was held on January 19th, 2017, where children from Islamic, Jewish, and Christian schools joined gifted young musicians from the Purcell School of Music and Middle-Eastern musicians to sing and play for peace in the Middle East. The audio podcast featured: Urban Fantasy and Permanent Verse from her latest album, Possession The link to her full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website . In this episode, we talked about: 🎷 Interesting conversations with classical musicians 🎷 How creativity is hammered out of you when studying classical music 🎷 The context of perfect pitch 🎷 The aim of the organization, Voices Beyond Divisions 🎷 And much more! Looking for pro saxophone tips from top players? Our Patreon supporters enjoy access to unique advice from the many saxophonists featured on our show. These gems are shared nowhere else! Show your support and get more info on our Patreon site .…
Denis DiBlasio is a saxophonist, flutist, composer, arranger, and Full Professor and Director of the Jazz Performance and Composition Programs at Rowan University. Denis was the Musical Director and composed and arranged for the Maynard Ferguson Band for 5 years. He is a published author of five texts on jazz improvisation, and a recording artist for Encounter and RadScape Records with 12 CDs under his name. His many compositions, arrangements, and articles are available through publishers such as Jamey Aebersold, Belwin, Hal Leonard, Kendor, and many others. He is also a clinician and educator for the Yamaha Music Corporation of America. You can catch his Bio, and all of his links on our website. In this episode, we talked about: 🎷 Being a director of Jazz Studies at Maynard Ferguson Institute of Jazz 🎷 The importance of listening 🎷 Teaching and learning–now vs then 🎷 Influence of the big band era 🎷 His past, current, and upcoming projects 🎷 And much more! Looking for pro saxophone tips from top players? Our Patreon supporters enjoy access to unique advice from the many saxophonists featured on our show. These gems are shared nowhere else! Show your support and get more info on our Patreon site .…
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