My previous article for this website explored transposition as a method of generating new ideas for improvising. With the imminent release of my book Patterns for Creative Improvisation, Volume 2, I am exploring another source of improvisational material: transcriptions. By combining transcriptions of our favorite improvised solos with some simple applications of music theory, we [read more…]
Introduction Before traveling to perform at a concert venue, there are steps that all saxophonists should take to adequately prepare themselves for a performance. These steps include practice strategies to prepare music for the concert and also warmup routines to be followed at the time of the concert. Being properly prepared and warmed up will [read more…]
The new JodyJazz DV HR Tenor uses the patented DV secondary window to add mid and low harmonics, resulting in a more authoritative tone than normal tenor sax mouthpieces provide. And the long straight somewhat high baffle gives the mouthpiece it’s fantastic projection and cutting power along with excellent altissimo.
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The New DV HR Tenor from JodyJazz
Introduction I had the opportunity to review Marc Jean’s original ligatures , (see picture below) back in 2014 for alto and tenor saxophone. Although I have play tested many ligatures over the years for alto and tenor saxophone and tend to switch from time to time, I have stayed with the original Marc Jean ligature [read more…]
Introduction It’s been over two years since I last attended the NAMM (aka National Association of Music Merchants). As we all know, a lot of changes have happened with Covid and the resulting economic challenges, but that’s not the focus here. In this article, we are focused on what’s new with the saxophone. I was [read more…]
Last week, the conductor of a pro concert band in Sydney that I play the flute in, said to me at the rehearsal: “Hey Jane – I arranged a new piece for the band and I especially wrote you out a ripper of a jazz flute solo!!” I braced myself. For I am not a [read more…]
“It Don’t Mean a Thing….” Although I’m clearly not looking to score points for originality with the above reference, the truth remains that Duke Ellington summed it best with the title of his timeless standard and staple of popular American culture, “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)”. In other words, [read more…]
Introduction Depending on where you live in the U.S, a good repair tech can be hard to find. Most cities don’t have the demand to support a saxophone specialist. If you’ve struggled with this lack of instrument repair options, you might keep an eye on your local theater’s event schedule for Disney’s Frozen the Musical. [read more…]
Introduction When it comes to making a mouthpiece change, the question as to whether to purchase a new one or to reface a mouthpiece you already own comes up quite a bit, and the answer really depends on your situation and why it is you are looking to make a change. In the past when [read more…]
Introduction Since moving out to the Bay Area 7 years ago, I’ve had the chance to visit various music stores and repair shops and meet saxophonists selling gear from time to time. Now, when it comes to someone who is not just a great player but has one of the nicest collections of vintage saxophones, [read more…]
Introduction The first time I heard Danny Janklow play was some years ago at one of Vandoren’s “Vandojam” concerts, which take place as part of the NAMM show in Anaheim, California each year. I was blown away by his level of skill given his age. I recently got to see Danny play at the Black [read more…]
Tips and Techniques from the pros PLUS free access to the Sax Lessons with the Stars archive - 10 years worth of interviews and exercises featuring the likes of David Liebman, Bob Mintzer, Ben Wendel, Bob Reynolds, and many more!
