TrueNorth Big Band; Recorded Live on March 22, 2014; Jim Metzendorf - Tenor Saxophone; Arranged by Nelson Riddle

Stella By Starlight

The purpose of this recording is to explore thematic development in improvisation by selecting a small phrase and expanding upon it in a structure free of specific chords or time. The phrase may rely on a certain tonal center, but the improviser may embellish in any manner they see fit.

A significant reason for recording and sharing these developmental exercises is to encourage the musician to always maintain a direction and audience for their playing. With that in mind, the end result is far more likely to be musical and enjoyable rather than a purely academic study. As musicians, we should strive to practice the way we perform!

To maximize the benefit of this exercise, the performance was recorded in a single take with no prior rehearsal. The only editing was to decrease the “dead air” between some of the musical ideas.

Noir Theme Development

This recording is a test of the MACSAX Aura 3D printed tenor saxophone mouthpiece. Other equipment: Rico Select Jazz 3M filed reeds, Rovner Versa X ligature, late 1950's H.N. White/King Cleveland saxophone.

The recording was made using an AKG C414EB microphone with a Mackie Onyx Blackjack USB interface. No EQ, compression, or other effects have been added.

Test of MACSAX Aura Tenor Saxophone Mouthpiece

"Nardis" arranged by Mike Kamuf; Recorded live on 01/11/2016 by the Skatch Anderssen Orchestra in Cleveland, OH. Jim Metzendorf, tenor saxophone

Nardis

Saxophone Excerpt

Excerpt of 'Things Ain't What They Used to Be' performed by the Skatch Anderssen Orchestra on May 16, 2016 at Brothers Lounge in Cleveland, OH. Jim Metzendorf, tenor saxophone

Things Aint What They Used To Be

Saxophonist; Audio Editor; Podcast Host/Producer

Jmetzendorf