Canadian Saxophonists

Well, I can't pretend to know all of the best canadian saxophonists, but I have met and heard a few, studied with a couple, and jammed with my fair share. It seems to me that for someone to make it to the "top", one needs to have a good attitude, in addition to being a phenomenal player. After many years of experience I can tell you that if you've got killer chops, but your attitude stinks and you're unreliabe, people won't want you in their band. On the other hand, if you're a nice guy and are dedicated to making good music, then you'll get there one day.

Improvisation is 99% effort and 1% talent. Seriously, there seems to be a lot of confusion about that. Talent shmalent; I've seen cats who suck during their first few years of playing, only to see them tears later kicking @$$ at a jam.

Anyways, here are some links to some canadian jazz cats websites. Sorry if I left any out - you can leave a comments post on this subject if you have someone in mind.

Pat LaBarbera

Mike Murley

Phil Dwyer

Campbell Ryga

Alex Dean

Kirk MacDonald

Keep your ear to the ground for Brodie West and Jane Bunnett among others!