[twocol_one]

Where did you/do you go to school?

I started playing alto saxophone in 4th Grade at sky country elementary school, but before I played saxophone I played drums for my church and sung often. So you can say music has always been something I’ve done. I currently play piano and I’m teaching myself how to play guitar and bass.

Setup

I now own 5 saxophones. My main saxophone is a Italian horn. The brand is Ramponi and Cazzoni. I use a size 7 Jody Jazz Mouthpiece and size 3 1/2 Vandoren blue box reeds. I love my setup it give me that nice bright tone that allows me to smooth and aggressive at the same time.
[/twocol_one] [twocol_one_last]

Saxophonist Curtis Brooks

Located in California, USA

  • Alto & Soprano saxophones

www.curtisbrookssax.com


Teen Jazz Artist Badge

[What’s this?]

[/twocol_one_last]

Why did you begin studying music?

I began studying because I have always loved music and it gives me a chance to release all of the emotion that I have. So whenever I play I play with a lot of emotion and feeling which allows me to give my audience a great show.

What are you doing with music now?

Right now I am one of the up and coming young artist I am working with Ricky Lawson, Darryl Williams, Payne Pest Management and infinity artist group to help get my name out there.

Who are some of your influences?

My biggest influences are Gerald Albright, Kirk Whalum, Charlie Parker, Maceo Parker, Sonny Rollins, and the Brecker Brothers.

Who have you studied with?

I have studied with Jimmy Reid, Ricky Lawson, Darryl Williams,and J Boykin.

What are some of your goals musically for the future?

I plan on continuing my life in music and traveling the world. Producing new artist in every genre and writing music.

What are your thoughts on what it takes to be successful as a performer?

There are so many aspects in being a performer. One is you always want to be a musician first. So it’s good to keep your musicianship. Second high energy. Audiences love it when you play with all the love and energy and soul. For young performers go watch Eric Darius that will show you how to put on a good show with major energy.

Playing your instrument is one part of being successful but being a sociable like able person will take you much farther than if your just a good player. People love to talk and there are many times where you have many people wanting to talk and you have to be able to hold a conversation even when you don’t feel like talking you still have to be sociable. So being a people person is a necessity.

What would your advice be for a fellow up and coming, young musician?

For all the young musicians that want to start working and get better you must surround yourself with better musicians and jam it really helps. There are jam sessions going on all week put on by amazing musicians. It’s a great way to get noticed and build your craft.

Anything else you’d like to add?

You can follow me on Facebook at Curtis Brooks Sax or send me a friend request I’ll be happy to add you and answer any questions you have. My website is www.curtisbrookssax.com I’m on instagram and Twitter at Curtis brooks sax.


 

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.

[button link=”https://teenjazz.com/apply/”]Apply Here[/button]

[template id=”182″]

Published by Shannon Kennedy

Shannon Kennedy is a vocalist and saxophonist living in Southern California. She is author of "The Album Checklist" and the founder of Teen Jazz. She has been contributing articles to music magaizines and websites since 2004.