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 [read more…]
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 [read more…]
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 [read more…]
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 [read more…]
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 [read more…]
I believe that writing can be a great shaping and determining factor in your development as an improviser. In my case, towards the end of college, I had developed a be-bop vocabulary after being inspired by Bird, Cannonball, Stitt, Phil Woods, Charles McPherson and others. However, while I was able to play somewhat in that [read more…]
In my first article for the Best. Saxophone. Website. Ever. I discussed using melodic shapes from J.S. Bach’s music to expand your vocabulary and improve your technique and range. We then took those shapes and applied them to a standard chord progression. Today I want to delve in to just one piece of Bach’s music, [read more…]
Michael Brecker’s Visit to the USN’s Atlantic Fleet Band Michael’s one day workshop came about through the hard work of MU2 (Musician 2nd Class) Jeremy Bustillos and the permission of LCDR (Lieutenant Commander) Mel Kessler, our band officer. On or about September 2, 2003 we had a surprise visitor at the Atlantic Fleet Band in [read more…]