In Episode 272 of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, Donna Schwartz welcomes internationally acclaimed saxophonist Nick May (David Del Tredici, Pulitzer Prize and Grammy winner) for a conversation that goes far beyond technique. From his early musical beginnings to his work as a performer, educator, and advocate, Nick shares the experiences that have shaped both his artistry and his mission.
Recognized for his expressive performances and commitment to new music, Nick has appeared as a soloist with orchestras across the United States and internationally, while collaborating with leading contemporary composers to expand the saxophone repertoire. He is also the founder of the I Exist Project, an artistic initiative that celebrates queer life and creativity through performance, collaboration, and the commissioning of new works. During the episode, Nick discusses how the project came to life, along with his upcoming tributes honoring Billy Strayhorn and Julian Eltinge.
Listeners also get a glimpse into Nick’s educational journey, his philosophy that you can learn from anyone, and the importance of staying curious throughout a musical career. On the technical side, he offers practical advice on topics saxophonists often struggle with, including double stops, circular breathing, common mistakes when approaching the altissimo register, and his process for preparing challenging repertoire like the Harrison Concerto. He also shares insights into his equipment setup, including why he performs on Légère reeds.
Whether you’re interested in performance, pedagogy, or discovering new ways to grow as a musician, this episode offers an inspiring blend of thoughtful conversation and practical takeaways. Nick also gives listeners a look at the exciting projects he has on the horizon, making this an episode you won’t want to miss.
Here’s a timestamp of the important things you should not miss!
00:00 Musical beginnings
08:18 When he got serious into playing
27:12 The creation of the I Exist Project
40:53 Billy Strayhorn and Julien Eltinge Tribute
47:30 What school he attended for college
49:32 You can learn from anyone
51:44 Double stops and how he deals with it
01:01:37 Equipment
01:05:57 Circular Breathing
01:12:16 Mistakes people make when approaching altissimo
01:23:06 First steps working on the Harrison Concerto
01:27:38 Legere reeds
01:29:08 upcoming projects
Tune in now to hear Donna and Nick discuss music, artistry, lifelong learning, and the many ways the saxophone can inspire meaningful connection:
Follow Nick May here:
- Website: https://www.nickmaysax.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nickmaysax/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickmaysax/#
- YouTube: https://youtube.com/@nickmaysax
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5IWBbMr88lgM86ccqvx4GL?si=V-j_wvXoRA61O7wRW644wQ
- Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/nick-may/1756764848
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💡This episode is sponsored by the free Masterclass, How to Improvise With Confidence
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Great podcast. Thanks for doing this
Thanks so much, Sal – glad you liked it and for your support 🙂
I wasn’t going to listen to this one since I am not a huge fan of classical saxophone, but really glad I did. He’s quite an impressive player and human being — and, that last segment where he basically stomped all over the scales in that piece…holy heck! Also, one thing I noticed immediately is that his spoken word/diction is very precise….and it mirrors the precision with which he plays. Great episode, thanks!