I started playing the saxophone the summer before my sixth grade year in junior high. I had heard the instrument on the radio a number of times and loved the sound, so my parents bought me my first Alto. I was an average player, practicing when the fancy hit me. Around my eight grade year, I started to take playing seriously, as my family would request songs and watch me play. I became aware of my poor sound and technique and took action. In high school, I was still average, but I strived to be the best.
My junior year, I auditioned and was permitted into the top band in the school, which was usually reserved for seniors. I was one of only seven other underclassmen who made it to that level. To my surprise, and the surprise of everyone else there, I was made section leader in both that band and my school's Jazz Ensemble. That same year, I was one of the two saxophone players at my church, playing on a weekly basis for two services, and reading/mentally transposing from piano music. The other saxophonist was my teacher and mentor. Sharing the stage with him is one of my most proud memories.
With a few solo parts in a classical piece, the concert band went on to win the best band in the state of Indiana that year (2003). The following year, I juggled section leader position with another peer who to this day I have a lot of respect for. As my senior year came to a close, I wanted to make a mark, as I had avoided it the past three years.
For the school's variety show, I performed Kenny G's 'Songbird' two consecutive nights in front of a total in excess of 1600 people. Though the auditorium was not acoustically sound, I was able to carry the song unmiced. Two weeks later, I played 'Going Home' in a traditional Catholic church setting for a going away party for the seniors in front of around 300. The final performance was at my own church, where I played 'Home' (another Kenny G piece) for two services and received a standing ovation started by my teacher.
In college, I performed a few concerts with one of the jazz bands, but mostly perform as a hobby. This summer, though, I have my first gig, which is in Ontario, CA at a wedding. I usually find Karaoke versions of songs I know and learn the notes by ear. I haven't used music in a couple years. Given sufficient time, I can learn the song, have it memorized for a performance, and perform well. After a decade of playing, the love for the music is still alive within me.
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