Joel
I was wondering the basics of playing jazz music on an alto saxophone
I play in a small jazz ensemble but we don’t get together enough for me to fully learn

Neal Battaglia
how long have you played?

Joel
3 years

Neal Battaglia
who do you listen to?

Joel
Like musicians?

Neal Battaglia
yes

Joel
I like Kenny G and Louie Armstrong

Neal Battaglia
Kenny G doesn’t really play jazz exactly. What he plays mostly is more pop music. He’s got skill, but if you’re trying to play jazz, I would suggest starting by listening to some different musicians.

Who do you want to sound like?

Joel
I want to be able to play like someone who is able to put soul in music

Neal Battaglia
like who?
it seems like you should listen to more jazz if that’s what you want to play it.

Listen to a lot of jazz, figure out who you like.