Everything Saxophone Podcast

What does it take to build a successful career as a saxophonist while staying inspired, improving your technique, and enjoying the music-making process?   In Episode 279 of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, Jess Gillam shares her approach to saxophone practice, performance, managing nerves, and her journey to becoming one of the most celebrated classical saxophonists of her generation.   In this episode, we discussed: 00:00 Musical beginnings 03:50 The first songs Jess learned 07:23 Mentor that really helped her playing 09:47 The level of zoning in 11:07 Glottal way of tonguing 17:50 Her living the dream 19:30 Jess' current practice routine 21:26 The medium is the work 22:51 Gear and set-up 25:08 Her single 'Shine You No More' 26:44 Inspiration behind her new album 32:55 How she approach her shows 37:10 Her journey in getting big in the music industry 43:33 Reframing being nervous 59:47 Her projects for the year 2026-2027   Explore more about Jess Gillam, her music, background, and socials here: https://saxophonepodcast.com/saxophonist-jess-gillam-practice-performance-ep-279 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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. 

What does it take to develop a signature sound and keep growing as a saxophonist?   In this episode of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, Donna Schwartz talks with multi-platinum saxophonist, composer, and producer Boney James about his musical journey, his approach to playing soulfully and authentically, and the story behind his new album, A Simple Man.   With more than three decades in the music industry and 20 No. 1 singles on the Billboard Smooth Jazz chart, Boney has built a career around deep grooves, memorable melodies, and expressive saxophone playing. But he continues to practice, experiment, and look for new ways to grow as a musician.   Below is a detailed timestamp guide to help you navigate the key highlights of our conversation with Boney James:  00:00 Musical background 03:17 Boney's outlook on his success and future 05:25 Getting that first break 06:27 Bobby Caldwell gig that lead him sign his own label 08:56 Story behind his new album "A Simple Man" 11:03 His writing process 13:32 Listen and reflect to "I Belong To You" 15:58 Tips for accompanying singers 20:56 Tips for people wanting to play pop solos 22:53 Playing exercises to keep him in shape 25:25 His set-up 27:36 Thunderneck by Inderbinen 31:51 Thoughts and inspiration in making "A Sentimental Mood" 33:46 Listen and reflect to "In A Sentimental Mood" 41:20 His choice of reeds 44:33 Approach to soloing 47:12 His new album and upcoming shows 50:33 People that inspired him and help his musical journey   Explore more about Boney James, his music, background, and socials here: https://saxophonepodcast.com/saxophonist-boney-james-playing-soulfully-and-authentically-ep-278   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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. 

What can curiosity do for your saxophone career?   For saxophonist, bandleader, and composer Nick Gomez, it has led to dream gigs, touring opportunities, film and TV work, and even building his own technology for musicians.   In this episode of Everything Saxophone Podcast, Nick Gomez takes us through his journey as a saxophonist, from getting started in music and attending Berklee College of Music to building a career that spans live performance, composing, touring, and the independent music world.   Belo is a detailed timestamp guide to help you navigate the key highlights of our conversation with Nick Gomez:    00:00 Introduction and how he got into music 08:53 Nick's set up 10:55 Review of KeyLeaves Vent vine 20:06 Which repair tools Nick travels with on tour 23:34 Tip to get an understanding of how your saxophone works 32:30 His life after attending Berklee 49:40 How it's like to promote as an independent artist 53:22 Building his own email platform, Dispatch, for musicians 01:03:44 All artists need to do this ONE thing at shows 01:20:12 Upcoming projects   Explore more about Nick Gomez, his music, background, and socials here: https://saxophonepodcast.com/saxophonist-nick-gomez-how-curiosity-landed-him-his-dream-gigs    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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. 

What does it take to create a saxophone that delivers exceptional tone while still feeling natural and comfortable to play?   In this episode of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, Donna Schwartz sits down with Grammy Award-winning saxophonist, composer, and educator Alex Hahn.   Here, Alex shares his experience collaborating with Eastman on the development of the EAS 852 52nd Street Alto Saxophone.   In this episode:  00:00 Origins of the EAS 852 alto sax 02:11 The process of testing out the new prototypes 04:19 The importance of the saxophone neck 12:31 His process in setting his equipment right 14:46 Ryan Richman's goal for Alex 19:10 EAS 852 in a action 24:29 Testing the prototypes 27:43 The ergonomics compared to the first version or other horns 33:49 Alex as an educator 40:06 Upcoming projects   Explore more about Alex Hahn, his music, background, and socials here: https://saxophonepodcast.com/saxophonist-alex-hahn-introducing-the-new-eastman-eas-852-alto-saxophone-ep-276   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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. 

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. 

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

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

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

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

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