alex hahn masterclass
Posted on 2018-11-17
Alex Hahn Masterclass
Alex gave a really good class. He asked us to take notes. Here they are.
Steps to a music career. (most of these apply to any pursuit)
1. Time Management
2. Listen to a diverse selection of music.
3. Stay positive - breathing exercises and meditation help
4. Stay focused - stay driven always playing, playing, playing - work on one thing when you practice
5. Make yourself marketable - Again diversity, play multiple instruments, learn to compose, arrange, teach - how can I make money? - as a student audition for workshops, music programs, Disney
6. Play with as many different people as possible.
7. Follow up - get back - stay in touch - persistence works
8. Be prepared - you have to do good to be hired back
9. Save 5% or 10% of every gig.
10. Set goals - break goals into steps - is this goal possible - how can I track progress?
Alex asked us all to write down some goals.
My goals
Composition recital
Play more gigs
Alex's goals
Be patient
Practice 1/2 hour every day
Get nominated for a Grammy
Alex's listening
Brian Blade and The Fellowship
Kamasi Washington
Brad Mehldau esp. Highway Rider
saxophones
Chris Potter, Michael Brecker, Cannonball Adderly, Kenny Garrett, Sonny Rollins
trumpet
Ambrose Akinmusire
I don't remember all of his recommendations. Maybe he'll get back with me and fill in the blanks. (he did)
I asked if Ambrose Akinmusire inspired him to write for strings. He said not really and named a couple of jazz string arrangers that inspired him. I'll try to get those names too.
He got back with me.
Kamasi Washington - The Epic / Truth / Heaven & Earth
Snarky Puppy with the Metropole Orchestra
Alex also played a couple of pieces solo. He was engaging and entertaining and obviously has a thing for teaching.
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