Everything Saxophone Podcast

Donna Schwartz

Each episode, 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!

  1. 27 août

    Saxophonist Chad Smith; What Piano, Mouthpieces & Tonguing Can Teach You About Saxophone

    What does it take to build a successful career as a saxophonist and multi-woodwind musician?   In Episode 275 of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, Donna Schwartz welcomes Chad Smith, an accomplished Broadway saxophonist, multi-woodwind specialist, studio musician, and educator.   In this episode, Chad shares insights into his musical journey and discusses: 00:00 Musical background 05:18 How playing the piano helps as a saxophone player 09:10 How Chad got into music education 13:14 Total approach 21:50 Otto Link mpc in Met Opera 27:24 Importance of mouthpiece to your sound 38:52 How to double tongue 49:55 Single tonguing with efficiency 01:00:52 Listen and reflect to Sax Flight 01:02:57 Sax Flight - Each movement influenced by… 01:13:36 Vintage saxes vs. new 01:16:27 Playing in C melody   Explore more about Chad Smith-his music, background, and socials-all in one place: https://saxophonepodcast.com/saxophonist-chad-smith-what-piano-mouthpieces-tonguing-can-teach-you-about-saxophone-ep-275 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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! CLICK HERE Ever wonder what it would feel like to stop overthinking and just play?  To hear the changes, trust your instincts, and take confident, creative solos — even if you've always relied on the sheet music? That's exactly what you'll learn in the free masterclass called "How to Improvise With Confidence." Inside, you'll discover: How to simplify improvisation — so it works no matter your skill level The trick to creating solos on the spot (even if you were trained to read note-for-note) And how to actually make progress without getting stuck in the practice loop Thousands of sax players have already gone through it - and many say it's the first time improvising finally made sense. Click HERE to watch the masterclass now while it's still available.

  2. 6 août

    Saxophonist Steve Kortyka on Discipline & Performing with Famous People

    What does it take to perform on some of the world's biggest stages while continuing to grow as a musician and educator?   In this episode of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, Donna Schwartz sits down with acclaimed saxophonist, composer, arranger, and educator Steve Kortyka to discuss his musical journey, performing with legendary artists, the discipline required to succeed, and his biggest advice for developing as an improviser.   Below is a detailed timestamp guide to help you navigate the key highlights of our conversation:  00:00 Musical beginnings 12:10 How to gauge your progress 13:33 His teaching experience 26:03 Simplicity vs. complexity of music process now and then  33:02 Playing with Lady Gaga and other opportunities that opened up 42:22 How Steve studied the craft of writing arrangements 44:16 Required discipline and hard work even for famous people 48:29 Listen and reflect on Steve's solo "Love for Sale" 58:49 Is it nerve wracking to play for a famous person with large shows? 01:04:26 Preparing for shows 01:16:37 Steve's huge tip for those wanting to get better with their improvisation 01:18:11 This element of music is most important when soloing 01:22:26 Equipment 01:29:00 Upcoming projects   Explore more about Steve Kortyka-his music, background, and socials-all in one place: https://saxophonepodcast.com/saxophonist-steve-kortyka-on-discipline-performing-with-famous-people-ep-274 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 V 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! CLICK HERE Ever wonder what it would feel like to stop overthinking and just play?  To hear the changes, trust your instincts, and take confident, creative solos — even if you've always relied on the sheet music? That's exactly what you'll learn in the free masterclass called "How to Improvise With Confidence." Inside, you'll discover: How to simplify improvisation — so it works no matter your skill level The trick to creating solos on the spot (even if you were trained to read note-for-note) And how to actually make progress without getting stuck in the practice loop Thousands of sax players have already gone through it - and many say it's the first time improvising finally made sense. Click here to watch the masterclass now while it's still available 👉 HERE

  3. 16 juil.

    Saxophonist Greg Banaszak; Olympic-style Preparation for Performances

    How do you prepare for a performance like an Olympic athlete?   In Episode 273 of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, Greg Banaszak shares his disciplined approach to performing, practicing, and thriving as both a classical and jazz saxophonist.   00:00 - Greg's approach to working on the Bird With Strings project 15:56 - His mindset in playing both classical and jazz 20:58 - Tips for transcribing 26:05 - Why he recommends Vandoren products  32:50 - Audience receptiveness, especially overseas 37:12 - How he prepares for overseas concerts 42:54 - Greg's "Olympic" preparation 56:54 - How's the saxophone scene in Mumbai 01:07:35 - Upcoming projects   Explore more about Greg Banaszak, his music, background, and socials, all in one place:  https://saxophonepodcast.com/saxophonist-greg-banaszak-olympic-style-preparation-for-performances-ep-273 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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! CLICK HERE Ever wonder what it would feel like to stop overthinking and just play? 🤔 To hear the changes, trust your instincts, and take confident, creative solos — even if you've always relied on the sheet music? That's exactly what you'll learn in the free masterclass called "How to Improvise With Confidence." Inside, you'll discover: How to simplify improvisation — so it works no matter your skill level The trick to creating solos on the spot (even if you were trained to read note-for-note) And how to actually make progress without getting stuck in the practice loop Thousands of sax players have already gone through it - and many say it's the first time improvising finally made sense. Click here to watch the masterclass now while it's still available 👉 HERE

  4. 2 juil.

    Saxophonist Nick May; How he became a Classical Saxophone Phenom

    What does it mean to use music as both an artistic outlet and a way to make an impact?   In Episode 272 of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, host Donna Schwartz sits down with acclaimed saxophonist Nick May to explore the experiences, ideas, and techniques that have shaped his career.   Nick reflects on his musical beginnings and the moment he decided to pursue the saxophone more seriously. Along the way, he shares an important reminder for musicians at every stage. The conversation also dives into Nick's passion for, about founding the I Exist Project.   Tune in now to hear Donna and Nick discuss music, artistry, lifelong learning, and the many ways the saxophone can inspire meaningful connection:  00:00 Musical beginnings 08:18 When he got serious into playing 27:12 The creation of the I Exist Project 40:53 Billy Strayhorn and Julien Eltinge Tribute 47:30 What school he attended for college 49:32 You can learn from anyone 51:44 Double stops and how he deals with it 01:01:37 Equipment 01:05:57 Circular Breathing 01:12:16 Mistakes people make when approaching altissimo 01:23:06 First steps working on the Harrison Concerto 01:27:38 Legere reeds 01:29:08 Upcoming projects   Explore more about Nick May, his music, background, and socials, all in one place:  https://saxophonepodcast.com/saxophonist-nick-may-how-he-became-a-classical-saxophone-phenom  ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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! CLICK HERE Ever wonder what it would feel like to stop overthinking and just play? 🤔 To hear the changes, trust your instincts, and take confident, creative solos — even if you've always relied on the sheet music? That's exactly what you'll learn in the free masterclass called "How to Improvise With Confidence." Inside, you'll discover: How to simplify improvisation — so it works no matter your skill level The trick to creating solos on the spot (even if you were trained to read note-for-note) And how to actually make progress without getting stuck in the practice loop Thousands of sax players have already gone through it - and many say it's the first time improvising finally made sense. Click here to watch the masterclass now while it's still available 👉 HERE

  5. 18 juin

    How Pete Christlieb's Life was Shaped by The Jazz Masters

    In Episode 271 of Everything Saxophone Podcast, Donna sit down with legendary tenor saxophonist Pete Christlieb, whose remarkable career has spanned jazz clubs, television studios, recording sessions, and some of the most iconic albums in music history.   In this episode, Donna and Pete talked about: 00:00 His encounter with Chet Baker 06:46 Violin as his first instrument 16:37 Playing with Eddie Lockjaw Davis  18:14 Influenced by what he heard around him 23:44 The incredible connection between Pete and Warne Marsh when they improvised 26:03 The Jazz Master that was the biggest influence on Pete's playing 29:15 Album with Warne Marsh 31:50 What his father taught him 46:29 His introduction to saxophone 51:11 Tip from his teacher that stood out for him 54:25 How he got a gig with Johnny Carson 59:48 Learning how to improvise 01:07:10 Inspiring people around him 01:11:12 The influence of classical music on Jazz  01:14:04 Upcoming projects   Explore more about Pete Christlieb, his music, background, and socials, all in one place: https://saxophonepodcast.com/how-pete-christliebs-life-was-shaped-by-the-jazz-masters-ep-271 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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! CLICK HERE Ever wonder what it would feel like to stop overthinking and just play? 🤔 To hear the changes, trust your instincts, and take confident, creative solos — even if you've always relied on the sheet music? That's exactly what you'll learn in the free masterclass called "How to Improvise With Confidence." Inside, you'll discover: How to simplify improvisation — so it works no matter your skill level The trick to creating solos on the spot (even if you were trained to read note-for-note) And how to actually make progress without getting stuck in the practice loop Thousands of sax players have already gone through it - and many say it's the first time improvising finally made sense. Click here to watch the masterclass now while it's still available 👉 HERE

  6. 4 juin

    Nicole Johaenntgen, Ep 270; Rhythm as the Foundation for Great Sax Solos

    Nicole Johänntgen joins Donna on Episode 270 of The Everything Saxophone Podcast!   Nicole is an internationally acclaimed saxophonist, composer, educator, entrepreneur, and one of the most influential saxophone creators on social media today. In this conversation, she shares her musical journey, teaching philosophy, and practical insights for saxophonists looking to improve their playing and creativity.   In this episode, we discuss: 00:00 Musical beginnings 04:40 Nicole's tip for improving your saxophone technique 07:11 Coming from a classical background 08:36 Her introduction to saxophone 10:48 Her 360 Degree approach to teaching that involves the whole body/mind 12:31 Jazz is a skill for life 15:01 How her journey to composing started 17:30 What inspired Nicole to play so rhythmically 23:54 Playing with the time/timing 32:17 Listen and reflect to 'Pandeiro' 38:50 Her scooping technique 44:53 Moving to New Orleans 53:55 Upcoming projects   Explore more about Nicole Johaenntgen, her music, background, and socials, all in one place:  https://saxophonepodcast.com/nicole-johaenntgen-ep-270-rhythm-as-the-foundation-for-great-sax-solos ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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! CLICK HERE Ever wonder what it would feel like to stop overthinking and just play? 🤔 To hear the changes, trust your instincts, and take confident, creative solos — even if you've always relied on the sheet music? That's exactly what you'll learn in the free masterclass called "How to Improvise With Confidence." Inside, you'll discover: How to simplify improvisation — so it works no matter your skill level The trick to creating solos on the spot (even if you were trained to read note-for-note) And how to actually make progress without getting stuck in the practice loop Thousands of sax players have already gone through it - and many say it's the first time improvising finally made sense. Click here to watch the masterclass now while it's still available 👉 HERE

  7. 14 mai

    Saxophonist & Educator Dale Underwood on Sound, Discipline & Building a Lasting Career

    Classical saxophone icon Dale Underwood joins us for Episode 269 of the Saxophone Podcast.   A frequent guest soloist with major orchestras including the Boston Pops Orchestra and the National Symphony Orchestra, Dale Underwood has built one of the most respected careers in the saxophone world.   From Carnegie Hall performances to decades with the United States Navy Band, his influence on classical saxophone performance and education continues to inspire generations of musicians.   In this episode, we discuss: 00:00 Musical beginnings 04:34 Dale Underwood's beginning teachers 05:45 Fun fact about Dale's high school performance 10:42 Horns he used through the years 19:07 What Dale's teacher said that changed his playing forever 20:15 The #1 way Donald Sinta motivated Dale during lessons  23:12 Exercises from Sinta that Dale still does today 29:11 Pete Christlieb quote 32:47 Fondest memories from touring the Western states 34:47 How he started getting commissioned works 46:16 Setup when it comes to reeds 53:53 Navy band symposium 01:01:27 Exercise he does with his students 01:03:27 Mouthpiece he has used for the last 30 years 01:09:50 Upcoming project   Explore more about Dale Underwood: his music, background, and socials, all in one place: https://saxophonepodcast.com/saxophonist-educator-dale-underwood-on-sound-discipline-building-a-lasting-career-ep-269 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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! CLICK HERE Ever wonder what it would feel like to stop overthinking and just play? 🤔 To hear the changes, trust your instincts, and take confident, creative solos — even if you've always relied on the sheet music? That's exactly what you'll learn in the free masterclass called "How to Improvise With Confidence." Inside, you'll discover: How to simplify improvisation — so it works no matter your skill level The trick to creating solos on the spot (even if you were trained to read note-for-note) And how to actually make progress without getting stuck in the practice loop Thousands of sax players have already gone through it - and many say it's the first time improvising finally made sense. Click here to watch the masterclass now while it's still available 👉 HERE

  8. 23 avr.

    Saxophonist Christoph Irniger: Finding Your Voice in Modern Jazz

    What does it really take to find your sound in today's jazz world?   In Ep. 268, saxophonist Christoph Irniger shares his journey; from his musical beginnings to developing a personal voice through composition, tone, and deep listening.   Below is a detailed timestamp to guide your listening: 00:00 Musical beginning 11:30 Books that helped his playing 13:32 Artists that inspired him 26:10 Feeling rhythm and the pulse 27:36 Writing and playing his own compositions 29:59 Swiss jazz scene 36:14 Utilizing the online world in exposing his work 45:09 How he came up with the title "Dry Sensation" 46:05 Listen to "Dry Sensation" 54:31 A tip for using long tones to get into the changes 55:35 Joe Allard tone exercise 57:01 Listen and reflect to "Abandoned Eggs In a Pan" 01:09:39 Listen and reflect to Bluesetto 01:15:11 His new album "New Lines" and where to get it 👉 Explore more about how Christoph Irniger, explore practical concepts you can bring into your own playing, such as long tone work, tone development, and approaching the changes with intention:    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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! CLICK HERE Ever wonder what it would feel like to stop overthinking and just play? 🤔 To hear the changes, trust your instincts, and take confident, creative solos, even if you've always relied on the sheet music? That's exactly what you'll learn in the free masterclass called "How to Improvise With Confidence." Inside, you'll discover: How to simplify improvisation, so it works no matter your skill level The trick to creating solos on the spot (even if you were trained to read note-for-note) And how to actually make progress without getting stuck in the practice loop Thousands of sax players have already gone through it - and many say it's the first time improvising finally made sense. Click here to watch the masterclass now while it's still available ➡️ HERE

À propos

Each episode, 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!

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