Re: Born-again saxophonist
Absolutely! Its never too late. I would recommend searching out a local professional who's playing you like and ask about lessons if you're in a large enough area. If not, there are many folks who offer online lessons now. Check out the on line lesson series with Bob Reynolds. Its great!
There are advantages and disadvantages to starting again later in life.
A major advantage is that you have a wealth of knowledge that you've accumulated through other life experiences that will help guide you in your practice and decision making about what's important and how to be an efficient learner. Also, as an adult you're more confident about who you are than you used to be so you can forget about being intimidated and approach more advanced players with a thirst for knowledge rather than with envy or with worry about what they may think of your playing.
The disadvantage is that you generally have much less time and many more life responsibilities. So, finding the time to practice may be a challenge.
But the key is PRACTICE and LISTENING! Try to get in at least 20 minutes a day (even better 20 minutes twice a day, perhaps morning and evening). Smaller chunks more often is much better than longer practice sessions less often. If jazz is what you want to do, then listen to as much jazz as you can. Also, be smart about what you listen to. If you want to learn how to solo better, then listen to quartet music where saxophone is the solo instrument. For example, don't listen to big band music. Listen to Dexter Gordon, late 50's/ealry 60's Coltrane, Johnny Griffin, Cannonball, Chris Potter, Joshua Redman, any of these quartet or quintet albums would be great!
ENJOY!!!
Cheers,
Mark Overton
www.saxquest.com
www.saxophone.org
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