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Brecker, Higgins and more...
Hello again and welcome to my newest entry. First of all, I’d like to thank you for stopping by and taking the time to read. Much has happened since the last entry. First and foremost, Michael Brecker passed away only two weeks ago today. This news saddened many who had heard he was doing better as of this past summer. More on this later in the blog. For now, some happier news…
Dan Higgins, virtuoso saxophonist and 1st Reed Player in L.A., has released a new CD entitled, Voicing a Standard. The back cover of the CD boasts endorsements from none other than Quincy Jones, John Williams and Sammy Nestico. Need I say more??? You can read the full review HERE.
Many of you have asked about the next masterclass CD for Saxophone Journal. Yes, I reported it would be out sooner in an earlier blog. We will all have to wait a bit longer for the masterclass to be published. Please look for it in the Mar/Apr 2007 Saxophone Journal. Dino Soldo is another interesting saxophonist featured in the same upcoming issue. Dino and I spoke while he was at home outside L.A. He is a wonderful player who has taken somewhat of an “alternate route” to becoming a highly sought-after instrumentalist in L.A. and on the road. Click HERE to read more.
Two interviews in the past few months gave me great insight into two great talents - Tom Scott and Bob Mintzer. Tom’s interview has been posted here and if you missed it I encourage you to check it out HERE. Bob Mintzer’s interview is still pending publication in Saxophone Journal, however you can have a sneak peak HERE.
As I mentioned earlier, Mike Brecker’s passing was the saddest news for most of us recently. Only a few months ago I had received news that Mike had developed Leukemia. At that time he had been admitted to the hospital but that new development was not public knowledge. I didn’t feel it was best to write about that here. Almost holding my breath, I awaited more news over the past few weeks. That news came in the form of emails from several friends in the NYC area. It wasn’t the news any of us wanted. Michael Brecker lost his 2 1/2 year battle and passed away. Although this is a blow to the saxophone community and the even larger artistic world, it is not the end of his music. Michael has a new cd to be released this coming May. It is my understanding that Mike recorded it following his brief appearance with Herbie Hancock at Carnagie Hall this past summer. In addition to the new recording, Michael Brecker has been one of the most documented instrumentalists of the past few decades. He has played on countless albums, cds, television shows and videos over his spectacular career. We can be somewhat consoled in the fact that we will always be able to enjoy Mike’s recorded music despite the fact that he is now in a better place.
God Bless You Mike. We are not the same for having had you here to inspire us.
Stay well and play well.
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