I’ve been in awe of Chris Potter’s music since I was 17.
I could share endlessly about how he’s influenced me as a saxophonist, improviser, and composer.
While preparing for the GroundUP Festival in Miami this coming weekend, I rediscovered footage from the year Chris was our artist-in-residence. One clip stood out so much I couldn’t wait to share it with you!
Chris participated in an intimate late-night songwriter’s circle where he performed one of his original songs. Before playing it solo on saxophone, he plays it on the keyboard, which makes the solo sax version much richer because you’ll have all the harmonic details fresh in mind.
And then he delivers a jaw-dropping solo rendition. You’ll be amazed at how you can still hear the harmony through his (at points) almost Bach-like melodic lines.
But the real treat is hearing him so candidly discuss his creative process when it comes to writing instrumental music.
He mentions what clues he looks for to let him know if he’s on the right track (or not), and composers and song styles he admires and aspires to.
I’m excited to share this with you, and maybe I’ll see you in Miami this weekend?
Bob
P.S. The part where he plays with Michael McDonald…🔥