Steve Wilson has long been recognized as one of the most expressive and lyrical voices in modern jazz. JazzTimes has described him as “the consummate saxophonist-composer” and “one of the finest alto and soprano saxophonists of our time,” a reputation he has built through decades of outstanding performances, recordings, and collaborations.
A veteran saxophonist and flutist, Wilson has consistently placed in the DownBeat Magazine Critics and Readers Polls in both the alto and soprano saxophone categories since 1997. His sustained recognition in these polls reflects the deep respect he has earned from critics, fellow musicians, and jazz listeners alike.
Throughout his career, Steve has contributed to more than 175 recordings with some of the most celebrated artists in jazz. His collaborators include Chick Corea, Christian McBride, George Duke, Michael Brecker, Dave Holland, Dianne Reeves, Bill Bruford, Maria Schneider, Joe Henderson, Charlie Byrd, and many others across a wide spectrum of jazz styles.
As a bandleader, Steve has released nine recordings under his own name, collaborating with some of the most respected musicians in jazz while showcasing his distinctive musical voice as both a performer and composer.
His upcoming album, Enduring Sonance, is set for release on May 1, 2026 via Smoke Sessions Records. For this project, Steve assembled a remarkable group of musicians who share his ability to uncover the emotional depth and lyricism within a song. The ensemble features vibraphonist Joe Locke, bassist Jay Anderson, drummer Kendrick Scott, and pianist Renée Rosnes, who also contributed the album’s thoughtful and sensitive arrangements.
Beyond the stage and studio, Steve is also dedicated to jazz education. He currently serves as Director of Jazz Studies at the City University of New York (CUNY), where he mentors and guides the next generation of jazz musicians.
You can read more about Steve Wilson HERE
⏯️ Watch Episode 266 now and discover what does it mean to improvise melodically:
⬇️ Find exactly what you’re looking for in the episode by using the timestamps below:
00:00 Introduction
02:59 Why Johnny Hodges is the perfect sound template
05:43 What a good sound really is
07:54 How he got into music
11:14 His first experience in teaching
14:36 How Oboe helped his embouchure and sound
15:49 When he started playing soprano sax
16:36 The easiest saxophone to play but hard to master
28:15 Learn things the right way and don’t develop bad habits
31:00 His biggest influence
34:33 Moving to New York
39:13 Golden era of music shops
43:00 His first album
48:33 Adjusting your sound in the studio
55:49 How to get the best sound at a live performance
58:44 Listen and reflect to “Quiet Girl”
01:12:36 Steve’s advice for uplifting your audience
01:14:15 Melody and the evolution of jazz education
01:25:07 Listen and reflect to “Helen’s Song”
01:31:09 Big bands and its complexity
🔗 Stay Connected and Explore More from Steve Wilson:
- Steve’s Website: https://stevewilsonmusic.com/
- Steve’s Bandcamp: https://stevewilsonsmoke.bandcamp.com/album/enduring-sonance
- Steve’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevewilsonsax/
- Steve’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stevewilsonjazz
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💡This episode is sponsored by the free Masterclass, How to Improvise With Confidence
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Incredible podcast!!! I need to go back and listen again to write things down – so many wise bits of information here. Can completely hear Steve’s focused soprano tone that is mentioned. I listened while out for my long walk today, but need to focus to really appreciate this one. Steve is an incredible source of knowledge. I also played clarinet first – my dad (music instructor) would not let me play sax first…now I thank him! Steve’s mention that playing is 50% listening is SO true and something that few do. I am older and play in a community band and appreciate the comments that apply there as well. Great interview – thank you so much!
Much appreciated David! Please do us a favor and share with your sax-playing friends 🙂
Hi Donna, it’s been a while as I had a bit of a health issue but now catching up on your podcasts! This interview was great and Steve shared so much wisdom. I think you asked probably one of the best questions you ever have and in a very simple way. I would ask you to consider asking this very same question of all your future guests. At about 1:14 you asked him something like: “I know my chords, by why can’t I make a melody”. For all saxophonists (all instrumentalists) that is a seminal question. I’d love to hear the answer from all of your guests. Thanks!