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Everything Saxophone PodcastAuthor: Donna Schwartz
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! Language: en Genres: Arts, Music, Music Interviews, Performing Arts Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Saxophonist Nick May; How he became a Classical Saxophone Phenom
Episode 272
Thursday, 2 July, 2026
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
