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The Playful MusicianThe Playful Musician dives deep into a musicians journey, techniques and influences. Author: Steve Davidson
The Playful Musician dives deep into a musicians journey, techniques and influences. From the first instrument they played to how they prepare for big concerts or recordings to how they find joy in the long practice hours, this podcast reveals the beautiful, and peculiar, details of an artists journey. Whether youre an aspiring musician looking for inspiration, a seasoned pro trying to find new techniques, or just a fan of the musical process, youre going to love this podcast. Language: en Genres: Arts, Music, Music Interviews, Performing Arts Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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Miguel Zenón - Saxophonist and Composer Releases Vanguardia Subterránea: Live at the Village Vanguard
Episode 66
Friday, 29 August, 2025
Miguel Zenón joins me on The Playful Musician. Born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico and living in New York City Miguel is a Grammy Winner, Guggenheim and MacArthur Fellow, and a Doris Duke Artist.Growing up in San Juan, Miguel Zenón originally thought he would study engineering, but during his senior year of high school he was drawn to jazz, much to his family’s surprise. With no musicians in his family, the transition was stressful, and he describes it as a leap of faith. Today Miguel is a Grammy-winning saxophonist, composer, and educator, recognized as a true alto saxophone legend. He is releasing his eighteenth album, and his first live recording, Vanguardia Subterránea: Live at The Village Vanguard.Described as “one of the most esteemed and singular-voiced alto saxophonists in jazz,” it is an honor to interview Miguel. We discuss his Tiny Desk Concert, his path from classical to jazz saxophone and back again, the culture shock of leaving Puerto Rico to study at the Berklee College of Music, and how he has kept his quartet together creating music for more than 20 years.His new album, released the same day this podcast airs, captures what it feels like to perform on the sacred ground of the Village Vanguard. It is more than a tribute to the Vanguard. It honors the foundation of music itself, the people who paved the way for Miguel to be where he is today, and the groundwork he is now laying for those who will follow.
