Everything Saxophone Podcast

Donna Schwartz
  • 4.8 (65)
  • Music Interviews
  • Updated Semimonthly

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. 5d ago

    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

    1h 42m

  2. Jun 18

    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

    1h 27m

  3. Jun 4

    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

    1h 7m

  4. May 14

    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

    1h 24m

  5. Apr 23

    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

    1h 27m

  6. Apr 2

    Saxophonist Shawn Maxwell; How Being Different Propelled His Career

    How being different can actually be your biggest advantage.   In Episode 267 of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, Donna sat down with saxophonist and composer Shawn Maxwell to talk about carving your own path and why leaning into what makes you different can propel your career forward.   Shawn shares his journey from classical beginnings to discovering improvisation, and how that shift reshaped his sound, mindset, and musical direction.   ⬇️ We also get into the practical side of things: 00:00 How he got into music 09:22 Changes he did to get his sound 13:18 First time improvising as someone who started with classical music 19:15 What he did after graduating 22:32 Do this when networking 26:28 How to get a wider variance of sound 31:59 Writing and composing 39:19 Notation softwares 47:58 Don't be stuck in the past  15:14 How to network 55:45 Importance of communication between players 01:00:04 Friendship with Chika Inoue that lead to their collaboration for "Cats are Gods" 01:02:49 Listen and reflect to "Cats are Gods" 01:13:21 Tips on getting that open sound 01:19:01 Story behind "Reed Tire Earth" 01:20:17 Listen and reflect to "Reed Tire Earth" 01:30:26 How to be a well rounded musician 01:32:06 Advice for classical saxophonists 01:34:02 How to deal with negativity 01:36:13 Where can you find Shawn's works 01:43:12 Upcoming projects/shows ➡️ Explore more about Shawn Maxwell: his music, background, and socials, all in one place:  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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

    1h 57m
  7. Saxophonist Steve Wilson; His Melodic Approach to Improvisation

    Mar 19

    Saxophonist Steve Wilson; His Melodic Approach to Improvisation

    What does it mean to improvise melodically? 🎷   In this new episode, Donna sat down with legendary saxophonist Steve Wilson to talk about his melodic approach to improvisation, his decades-long career, and the musical ideas that continue to shape his playing.   With more than 175 recordings and collaborations with artists like Chick Corea and Christian McBride, Steve shares invaluable insights for saxophonists and musicians alike.   We also discuss his upcoming album Enduring Sonance, releasing May 1 on Smoke Sessions Records.   TIMESTAMPS:  00:00 Introduction 02:59 Why Johnny Hodges is the perfect sound template 05:43 What a good sound really is 07:54 How he got into music 11:14 His first experience in teaching  14:36 How Oboe helped his embouchure and sound 15:49 When he started playing soprano sax 16:36 The easiest saxophone to play but hard to master 28:15 Learn things the right way and don't develop bad habits 31:00 His biggest influence 34:33 Moving to New York 39:13 Golden era of music shops 43:00 His first album 48:33 Adjusting your sound in the studio  55:49 How to get the best sound at a live performance 58:44 Listen and reflect to "Quiet Girl" 01:12:36 Steve's advice for uplifting your audience 01:14:11 Melody and the evolution of jazz education 01:25:07 Listen and reflect to "Helen's Song" Explore more about Steve Wilson-his music, background, and socials-all in one place: https://saxophonepodcast.com/saxophonist-steve-wilson-his-melodic-approach-to-improvisation-ep-266 📌 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 ➡️ CLICK HERE

    1h 55m

  8. Mar 5

    The Saxophone Warrior Chris Ward

    What does it really take to become a versatile, fearless saxophonist in today's music scene?   In Episode 265 of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, Donna sits down with Chris Ward, also known as The Saxophone Warrior, for a wide-ranging conversation about musicianship, discipline, creativity, and pushing beyond traditional boundaries.   Find exactly what you're looking for in the episode by using the timestamps below: 00:00 - Musical background 09:23 - What made him pursue music school 12:20 - How to give constructive feedback 13:31 - Responsibilities of a good student 15:15 - Chris' teaching practice 18:15 - Tips for transcribing 21:49 - What made him go to New York 26:10 - Tips for getting wedding band gigs 28:41 - Being prepared for different gig scenarios 34:01 - Studying with Lenny Pickett  36:11 - Chris' routine for reeds 37:05 - Other great tips he learned from Lenny 43:09 - Getting into pedals and effects 51:46 - Multiphonics 01:01:30 - Gauge a gig before getting experimental 01:10:30 - How he came up with the name "Saxophone Warrior" 01:14:03 - Future plans/projects 01:19:08 - Sharing experiences at this year's NAMM   ➡️ Explore more about Chris Ward—his music, background, and socials-all in one place:  https://saxophonepodcast.com/saxophone-warrior-chris-ward-ep-265 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

    1h 41m
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4.8
out of 5
65 Ratings

About

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!

Information

  • Creator
    Donna Schwartz
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    274
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 Everything Saxophone Podcast
  • Show Website
    Everything Saxophone Podcast

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