Everything Saxophone Podcast Host, Donna Schwartz, interviewed Saxophonist, Composer, Educator, Don Braden for Episode 234.
We talked about:
- His early experiences with the saxophone and his first gigs
- The creation of the Earth Wind and Wonder album
- His journey to mastering improvisation, including studying the Aebersold books
- His transition to becoming a professional musician
- Memorable stories about Wynton Marsalis and Freddie Hubbard, and their influence on his playing
- All about the melody
- How his bandmates put their own stamp on the music
- The surprising role of real, wholesome food in supporting the health of musicians
- And more!
Don Braden has toured globally for over 40 years, leading his own ensembles on saxophone and flute, performing as a special guest, and working with jazz legends like Betty Carter, Wynton Marsalis, and Freddie Hubbard.
A prolific composer, he has released 24 CDs as a leader, contributed to over 80 as a sideman, and created music for film and TV, including Nickelodeon and CBS. His latest album, Earth, Wind and Wonder, Volume 2, is available on his website, Spotify, and Bandcamp.
As a world-renowned educator, Braden directs the Harvard Jazz Combo Initiative, teaches at the Prins Claus Conservatoire, and leads the Litchfield Jazz Camp and Texas Jazz and Blues Camp. He has also earned awards like the Doris Duke Foundation’s New Works composer’s award and judged prestigious music competitions.
Braden endorses the Antigua ProOne tenor saxophone, JodyJazz DV NY mouthpiece, and D’Addario Reserve reeds.
For his complete bio, visit our website for this episode saxophonepodcast.com.
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