Hey all, I wanted to take a moment to introduce you to a fellow up and coming saxophonist, Mr. Adrian Crutchfield. I had the pleasure of meeting Adrian at NAMM a couple years back. He was hanging out at the Antigua Saxophones booth and introduced himself when I stopped by. I later got to know him and his playing better at the BG France/Legere/Theo Wanne artist jam and he’s definitely an artist you should check out. His vibrant and outgoing personality is something that definitely carries over into his music and has certainly played a huge part in his success as an artist.
We hope you enjoy reading through our interview with Adrian Crutchfield below.
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The Interview
When did you first begin seriously studying your instrument?
I started playing Sax in school in the 5th grade.
Who are your greatest influences? Who did you study with?
My greatest influences are anyone I spend time making music with. There are too many to name, and they’re ALL great! I learn from each and everyone of them.
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Saxophonist Adrian CrutchfieldLocated Worldwide
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Who or what gave you the confidence to pursue music as a career?
Kenny G gave me a horn when I was 4 years old. After that, everyone said I’d be a performer of some sort. I didn’t take it seriously until middle school, when i realized 2 things -I could make money doing something i love AND girls love musicians!
What are your thoughts on what it takes to be successful as a performer? Do you think any other skills are needed aside from the ability to play your instrument well?
To be a successful performer it takes way more than raw talent or ability. A successful performer is well rounded. They are confident but NOT arrogant! Successful performers play to their audience and not just to themselves. Also, a successful performer knows how to play their role and compliment the other members of an ensemble. I could go on for hours about what makes a successful performer.
What are some of the things you did before your career as a performer became as successful as it is today?
I played at EVERY jam session I could get into. I made as many musical friends as I could. I just wanted to be playing, no matter the style of music or the crowd. At one point I was a member of EVERY major band in my city.
What are some of your goals musically for the future?
My goals are simple… 1. to be remembered, to make an impact…. 2. to provide a comfortable living for my family… and 3. to show the generations that watch me that you can be successful at ANYTHING if you approach it with respect.
What inspires you to continue to pursue music? Have you ever come close to giving up and if you did, how did you overcome it?
What are some of the things you enjoy most about your career as a performer/recording artist?
What I enjoy most about my career is the traveling and meeting new people.
Do you write music? Where do you get your inspiration?
I write music, my inspiration comes from life, stress, love, friends, family, anything!
What was your lamest gig and how did you learn from it? What was the best?
We all have gigs that we would rather not do. But I don’t know that I would call it lame. Any opportunity to play music is GREAT! I’ve had my share of not so awesome gigs, but I can’t think of one in particular at the moment.
Hobbies other than Music:
I have a slight addiction to video games and cartoons. What can I say, I refuse to grow up.
What would your advice be for an up and coming, young musician?
Stay hungry and humble! Always be thankful for opportunities but never get comfortable! Always be on the lookout for the next accomplishment!
Endorsements:
Antigua Saxophones
Theo Wanne Mouthpieces
Legere Reeds
Gator Cases
Akai EWI
Where can we find more information?
New releases and projects coming up:
Currently I’m working on my 2nd full length Album… stay tuned to my website for more! Note from Shannon: You can check out his debut album Private Party
Interested in having your profile featured on our site?
Teen Jazz is also looking for young Jazz Artist features, so you could become a feature if you apply. You will be notified by email of the status of your application.
Terms and Conditions:
(A) You cannot submit one sentence answers to the Teen Jazz Artist Application form questions, they must be a short paragraph.
(B) You must respond to the confirmation email that you receive from Shannon Kennedy after you submit your profile or your profile will not be published on Teen Jazz.
(C) Pictures and Contact Information on your page are optional, but let us at Teen Jazz know if you would like to have both or either on your profile.
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