Saxophonist Michael Brecker | Teen Jazz Legend

As one of the most innovative and imitated saxophonists of the 21st century, Michael Brecker has played a large role in shaping the jazz and instrumental pop genres over the last thirty years. “You’ll find no better example of stylistic evolution than Michael Brecker, unarguably the most influential tenor stylist of the last 25 years.” …

Measuring Improvement

Finding the motivation to practice and improve is sometimes hard, especially when you don’t see immediate results. When we first begin to sing or perform, it doesn’t take long to notice a difference. It’s exciting and encouraging to see how quickly we can learn to play new notes and new music, but as we get …

D’Addario | Teen Jazz Company Interview with John D’Addario

Back in 2007 I had the opportunity to do an interview with John D’Addario of the music company accessory company D’Addario. THE INTERVIEW WITH JOHN D’ADDARIO: HOW LONG HAS YOUR COMPANY BEEN IN BUSINESS? WHAT HAS SOME OF THE GROWTH BEEN THAT YOU SEEN? “D’Addario is now in its second century, having been established in …

Is it Talent or is it Hard Work and Passion?

I recently read an article that discussed the idea of natural-born talent as a myth. I’m undecided as to whether or not I believe that natural talent is a myth, but I certainly agree that hard work can make up for where talent may lack. I even more firmly believe that working hard can and …

Saxophonist Adam Gardner | Teen Jazz Artist

[twocol_one] Setup/Gear/Manufacturer of Instruments: Mouthpiece : Kessler OL7Pro Reeds : Rico Jazz Selects 3 hard unfiled Horn : Yamaha Custom with black enamel (not the Custom Z, it’s the model before) Why did you begin studying music? I began because all my friends were doing instrument at my school, and my dad had his old …

Saxophonist Megan O’Donnell | Teen Jazz Artist

[twocol_one] Setup/Gear/Manufacturer of Instruments: I play on a Yamaha tenor sax with Vandoren Java 2.5, a Selmer clarinet with Rico Reserve 3 reeds, and a Selmer bass clarinet with Rico Reserve 3 reeds for classical and Vandoren Java 2.5 tenor reeds for jazz. Doubles Clarinet (7 years), Bass Clarinet (6 years)[/twocol_one] [twocol_one_last] Saxophonist Megan O’Donnell …

Performance Advice | No One Can Be a Better You

As an artist or performer it can be difficult to put yourself out there. There are so many talented artists and the Internet has millions of people who aren’t too shy when it comes to sharing their opinions on any material that ends up online. You can try to shield yourself by blocking comment features …

Rhythm – Who Can You Blame?

Rhythm… Some people have it and some people don’t, but why? Research suggests that your parents may be to blame, or thank, depending on which end of the spectrum you ended up. In an article published by the Associated Press, research revealing that babies develop rhythm when they are bounced. The same went for singing …

A Thank You Goes a Long Way

One of my greatest faults is the fact that I am inexplicably shy. When I confess this weakness, most people are shocked. They can’t understand how I can get up on stage and perform if I’m shy. And they’re right it doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. To be honest, I’m not completely sure …

How to Get the Most Out of Your Music Lessons

After studying music for several years, I have had the pleasure of being tutored by several talented musicians. In my opinion, it is important to study and learn from a variety of people [musicians and non-musicians alike]. By diversifying your education, you gain access to a multitude of information to learn, recreate, and make your …