What does it mean to improvise melodically? 🎷 In this new episode, Donna sat down with legendary saxophonist Steve Wilson to talk about his melodic approach to improvisation, his decades-long career, and the musical ideas that continue to shape his playing. With more than 175 recordings and collaborations with artists like Chick Corea and Christian McBride, Steve shares invaluable insights for saxophonists and musicians alike. We also discuss his upcoming album Enduring Sonance, releasing May 1 on Smoke Sessions Records. TIMESTAMPS: 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 01:14:11 Melody and the evolution of jazz education 01:25:07 Listen and reflect to "Helen's Song"

Explore more about Steve Wilson-his music, background, and socials-all in one place: https://saxophonepodcast.com/saxophonist-steve-wilson-his-melodic-approach-to-improvisation-ep-266

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

To hear the changes, trust your instincts, and take confident, creative solos — even if you've always relied on the sheet music?

That's exactly what you'll learn in the free masterclass called "How to Improvise With Confidence."

Inside, you'll discover:

1. How to simplify improvisation — so it works no matter your skill level
2. The trick to creating solos on the spot (even if you were trained to read note-for-note)
3. And how to actually make progress without getting stuck in the practice loop

Thousands of sax players have already gone through it - and many say it's the first time improvising finally made sense.

Click here to watch the masterclass now while it's still available ➡️ CLICK HERE