the saxophone was designed to be played outdoors.

Combining the metal body of brass instruments (like the trombone) with the reed and keywork of a woodwind instrument (like a clarinet) makes the saxophone’s sound suitable for a variety of musical styles, and gives it a projection that can carry a long distance. As an orchestral saxophonist, I’m called upon to play a variety of musical settings and styles. My first socially-distanced Neighborhood Pops Concert came from a neighbor whose backyard looked out onto a number of other backyards. Having grown up going to hear the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra and usually spending summers at the Hollywood Bowl, he wanted to put on a classic summer pops concert that all the neighbors could enjoy. Since the first concert I’ve returned to play there again, performed for groups of neighbors in front of their homes, and even played a concert out of the trunk of my car - since I’m only one musician, I can set up just about anywhere.

Programs are evolving and customizable depending on the nature of the event. I offer a mix of classical and jazz standards, as well as popular and original music. Past programs have included music by Bach, Bizet, Debussy, Gershwin, William Grant Still, Louis Armstrong, the Beatles, John Coltrane, Charlie Parker and Thelonious Monk. In addition, I can bring different sizes of saxophone - from the tiny sopranino to the giant baritone - to showcase a wide range of sounds and repertoire.

Since the sound carries a far distance, I can set up in a variety of locations. Having a group of yards facing each other with a high perch from which I can be seen by all is ideal but certainly not the only way to enjoy a concert. I’ve played on porches, driveways, and streets, with neighbors enjoying food and wine in their own yards or grouped together at a safe distance. Passersby out for walks who stumble upon us like to stop and listen and stay for the music.

The groups are small - 10-20 people - which makes distancing possible and gives the concerts a feeling of intimacy and comfort. I speak to the audience throughout, giving information on the music and instrument to add context to the program, and visit with audience members from a safe distance after the concert. I’m happy to present single concerts, and in some locations have set up a subscription model in which I return on a regular night every other week to present a new program.

What’s involved in hosting? Think of a location, work with your neighbors to find a time, and ask for their support in form of contributions towards my fee. I want everybody to be able to enjoy this music and ask that people give only what they can or wish based on their current situation (generally between $10-$50 per person, roughly the cost of a ticket to a regular concert).

If you’re interested in becoming a host, please send me a message at the form below. I would be happy to speak with you about any questions you may have, share additional samples of my work, or schedule a site visit to imagine what might be possible. As we’re all settling in for a summer that is far different than the one we imagined, it’s surprisingly easy, surprisingly cheap, and surprisingly comforting to enjoy music in an intimate and safe way.