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Everything Saxophone Podcast

Everything Saxophone Podcast

Donna Schwartz

Each episode, your Host Donna Schwartz brings you interviews, news, and reviews with some of the most exciting saxophonists in the world today. This is the place for the saxophone community to come together and learn through getting into the minds of our saxophone heroes. Enjoy the show and make sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode!

Categories: Arts

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What does it really take to become a versatile, fearless saxophonist in today's music scene? In Episode 265 of the Everything Saxophone Podcast, Donna sits down with Chris Ward, also known as The Saxophone Warrior, for a wide-ranging conversation about musicianship, discipline, creativity, and pushing beyond traditional boundaries. Find exactly what you're looking for in the episode by using the timestamps below: 00:00 - Musical background 09:23 - What made him pursue music school 12:20 - How to give constructive feedback 13:31 - Responsibilities of a good student 15:15 - Chris' teaching practice 18:15 - Tips for transcribing 21:49 - What made him go to New York 26:10 - Tips for getting wedding band gigs 28:41 - Being prepared for different gig scenarios 34:01 - Studying with Lenny Pickett 36:11 - Chris' routine for reeds 37:05 - Other great tips he learned from Lenny 43:09 - Getting into pedals and effects 51:46 - Multiphonics 01:01:30 - Gauge a gig before getting experimental 01:10:30 - How he came up with the name "Saxophone Warrior" 01:14:03 - Future plans/projects 01:19:08 - Sharing experiences at this year's NAMM

➡️ Explore more about Chris Ward—his music, background, and socials-all in one place:

https://saxophonepodcast.com/saxophone-warrior-chris-ward-ep-265

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Ever wonder what it would feel like to stop overthinking and just play? 🤔

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How to simplify improvisation — so it works no matter your skill level
The trick to creating solos on the spot (even if you were trained to read note-for-note)
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Previous episodes

421 - The Saxophone Warrior Chris Ward, Ep 265
Thu, 05 Mar 2026

420 - Award Winning Black Sapphire Cannonball Saxophone; Dr Randal Clark Live at the NAMM Show 2026, Ep. 264
Mon, 16 Feb 2026 - 0h

419 - The New Trevor James Soprano and Baritone Saxophones; Sandro Massullo Live at the NAMM Show 2026, Ep 263
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 - 0h

418 - The New Quasar Alto Sax Mouthpiece from Jody Jazz; Live at the NAMM Show 2026, Ep 262
Mon, 09 Feb 2026 - 0h

417 - Matt Ambrose of Theo Wanne Saxophone Mouthpieces; The New Partnership With JJ Babbitt, Live at the NAMM Show 2026
Fri, 06 Feb 2026 - 0h

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