If you’re like me, you’re probably always looking for ways to play better improvised solos. This may be by improving your harmonic or rhythmic vocabulary, your fluency with the jazz language, or just your overall creativity. My suggestion involves working through a series of self-imposed limitations, or parameters, in the way you approach practicing on […]
This is part 2 of a 2-part series on alternative ways to make a living playing sax. Although this article stands on its own, it would be good to check out part 1 if you haven’t done so already. Click here to for part 1. The Cruise Line Bands Suppose you do not want to […]
This article is part 2 in a 2-part series covering the latest and greatest saxophone products shown at NAMM 2018. In case you missed it, click here for part 1. AM Mouthpieces I have been hearing more buzz around the AM mouthpieces made by Arnold Montgomery. While at the show, Arnold had me try the “Aras”, […]
This article will cover the topic of auditions and the various job opportunities for saxophone players. I will touch on the military fleet, field and regional bands of the Navy, Army, Marines and Air Force. In addition I will discuss opportunities with the cruise lines via auditions with Pro Ship. Lastly I will discuss the […]
Introduction This marks my 7th year attending NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) and the show keeps getting better and better every year. Similar to my experience at the 2017 NAMM Show (2017 NAMM Show Saxophone Gear Roundup), the 2018 NAMM Show was full of exhibitors showcasing products such as: necks, ligatures, mouthpieces, reeds, neck-straps, cases […]
Learning to play saxophone can be an extremely rewarding experience. Whether you’re learning soprano, tenor, alto or baritone – the saxophone is widely considered to be the most accessible of all the woodwinds. With new technology constantly being developed to make our lives easier, it has never been a better time to refine your skills […]
One very important concept I work on with students (as well as work on myself) can be distilled down to three words. What I infer in this statement is that an instrumentalist might think of a way to formulate their playing, be it improvised or playing the theme, so that you can actually hear all […]
Official Bio Saxophonist and composer, Andrew Gould, has established himself as one of the most in demand saxophonists on the NYC music scene. A graduate of both Manhattan School of Music and SUNY Purchase, Andrew continues to hone his craft on and off the bandstand. In 2013, Andrew competed in the Thelonious Monk Saxophone Competition […]