Few saxophonists have built successful careers in both the classical and jazz worlds like Greg Banaszak. An internationally acclaimed performer, Greg has appeared as a concerto soloist, recitalist, chamber musician, and jazz artist in prestigious venues across Europe, Asia, and the United States. He was also the first saxophonist to perform concertos with orchestras in India, the Middle East, and Korea.
In addition to performing, Greg is a dedicated educator, serving on the faculties of the Cleveland Institute of Music and Case Western Reserve University. He is a voting member of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (the organization behind the Grammy Awards) and is also a Vandoren Performing Artist, Selmer Saxophone clinician, Rovner Products artist, Key Leaves artist, and consultant for DeJacques Inc.
A graduate of the Hartt School of Music, the Chopin Academy of Music in Warsaw, and the Centre Musical d’Annecy in France, Greg is passionate about mentoring the next generation of saxophonists. Hailed by The New York Times as a “tour de force,” he continues to perform and teach around the world. In recognition of his achievements, he received the Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award from the Hartt School of Music at the University of Hartford in 2021.
In this episode of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, Greg shares his “Olympic-style” approach to performance preparation, discusses balancing classical and jazz, offers transcription tips, and reflects on his experiences performing for audiences around the globe.
Here’s a timestamp of the important things you should not miss!
00:00 Greg’s approach to working on the Bird With Strings project
15:56 His mindset in playing both classical and jazz
20:58 Tips for transcribing
26:05 Why he recommends Vandoren products
32:50 Audience receptiveness, especially overseas
37:12 How he prepares for overseas concerts
42:54 Greg’s “Olympic” preparation
56:54 How’s the saxophone scene in Mumbai
01:07:35 Upcoming projects
Tune in to discover Greg Banaszak’s preparation routine, transcription tips, and insights:
Follow Greg Banaszak here:
- Greg Banaszak Podcast; Legendary Charlie Parker Stories – Ep 152: https://saxophonepodcast.com/greg-banaszak-podcast-legendary-charlie-parker-stories-ep-152/
- Website: https://www.gregbanaszak.com/
- Charlie Parker video project – Knowing Charlie Parker: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bY79iN9H0lc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gregbanaszaksaxophone/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBOTn5x_I6QLvFx1gpbk2rg?app=desktop
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💡This episode is sponsored by the free Masterclass, How to Improvise With Confidence
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