As a 73 year old beginner it,s nice to know my immediate playing problems are others too. Horn gets used about 1 hour a day so never going to be Stan the man as life wont be long enough but do play for enjoyment. Anyway please keep these videos coming as very informative. Thanks Alan
Thank you Matthew!!! I have had a similar journey in learning and loving to play Jazz Saxophone........ and in trying to digest and learn the MASSIVE amount of theory and information that enhances our playing and makes it even more fulfilling. Your honesty and candor are refreshing and GREATLY appreciated as well, and serve as a confirmation of my struggles and efforts too. I have followed your channel for a long time and I respect you for being so willing to let us share your growth and development along the way. I would LOVE to hear you do more of this style of video!!
Thank you Sefano, really appreciate the feedback. I’m just working on some more advanced theory, tritone substitutions, it has left me cold in the past....I’m going to try and pass that on here if I can. It’s finding the application that’s the most difficult aspect. Nice to know I’m not alone!
Only ever listened to your playing before..nice to hear you speak,..very interesting take on your approach to bettering one's playing...look forward to more tutorials..
It was very nice to hear You talk, I listen to Your recordings as much as all the rest sax music together. You play beautifully. I bought and started playing tenor 9 years ago after hearing You. Wish You Merry Christmas and many more years of playing and recording.
Matthew, I subscribed to your channel for a few months ago. I chanced across you in early-to-mid 2019. I have always enjoyed your playing and use it as inspiration as I have been learning to play and develop my skills on this wonderful instrument called the saxophone. It is so very good to hear you voice and I am very grateful to have heard your story. I have been playing for just over 4 years and I can relate to many of the things you have spoken about. I would absolutely like it, if you posted a "vlog", say monthly or fortnightly. That is a fantastic offering! Many of the things you have discussed, concerning your journey have either reinforced or clarified some perspectives I love to take in as I walk my own path. Keep posting your performances and treat us to your thought process as you play a song. I quite enjoyed this video! Cheers!
Hi Mathew , it’s nice about to hear your musical journey . I think you’ve saved me a lot of wasted time ie, equipment browsing , forums etc , and pointing out that making sure the equipment is serviceable. I love jazz . I played sax for a couple of years a while ago and always made your videos one of my stops and thought , I’d love to play like you so , Thankyou for all the brilliant videos . I did get sidetracked onto another instrument at that point ( fiddle ) but am now back having another go at sax . Please be assured that your videos are an excellent resource for would be sax players and are inspirational , especially after hearing you story . You’re an excellent player with a beautiful tone . Keep up the great work and all the best . 🙂
For someone who hates reading you have a hell of a lot of books behind you lol, , I've only been playing for a year (Tenor) and I seem to be following in your early footsteps, However, I totally agree that Tone is a very important factor that I am struggling with so I will be trying out your jaw dropping theory in my next practice session, Loved listening to you, Thanks Matthew
Thanks for sharing your journey with us. I would suggest to do short videos, that’s not to say this one is not any good, just that if you are learning something, shorter videos and ones that get to the point are easier to follow and more enjoyable. The one thing I love about your playing is your tone. I think you could probably do several short vids just on that.
I think I'm talking in behalf of many here when I say we really missed your presence and videos on UA-cam. Welcome back! I always looked up to your video performances and thought you were/are very very good. Now that I finally watched your first"talk" video I appreciate you even more so. You come across Veri humble and with some doubts and fears just like a real person should be. What a refreshing thing is that! Thank you for telling us where you coming from, why and how you learned and giving us great tips. I am all for more tutorial and tips videos, please keep them coming my way! Thanks
Hi Matthew. I never got around to seeking you out for a 'sit-in' did I? Unfortunately my wife became ill with Parkinson's and has now gone into full time care. So my gigging days are few and far between. As I have cataracts to get fixed, I can't use my car either, so I am stuck at home. Currently improving my music room and might put up some more videos. (I play mostly solo guitar now,; i.e. sans backing tracks.) Enjoyed listening to your musings... is it time to tell a few stories of your travels when gigging then? Best of luck and nice to know you aren't giving up! Almost forgot to ask; does the reed vibrate on the lips and tongue'? I think It would be like chalk squeaking on a board to me! Regards John
Great video Matt - refreshingly simple. I sometimes think that there is so much out there on the internet that instead of it being a resource it actually becomes an obstacle to progress as you are dragged in so many different directions and rather than making real progress on one aspect you make very little progress on many aspects. I too was a relatively late starter being the grand old age of 26 (now 56!) before picking up the instrument and its great to see that a later starter can as you have done achieve such a high standard of playing. I also struggle with my reading and my time and having watched this video I think that I will just bite the bullet and get lessons specifically for reading. I play in a jazz ensemble in a music school and on the night of a new tune I'm usually struggling to keep up with the more proficient readers. Looking forward to the next one. Keep them coming. PS we're doing Henderson's Black Narcissus at the moment and it would be great to see your interpretation of that tune.
gib321, I’m pleased you liked it.....and I feel your pain regarding reading. I’m still not great, but I accept my limitations. I struggle to read time, and I’m much better without the instrument, it seems that I’m too bothered about making it sound good. I therefore tap out or sing the part first. I’ve just listened to Black Narcissus...wow! I love that scale that he plays...if I can find a backing track, I’ll work on that!
Matt, Great to hear you will be recording again!! I really enjoyed your talk, great advice for us ‘recreational’ players who want to use our time wisely to get better. Please do more of this type of video; especially looking at say a jazz standard, deciding how you want to play/improvise over it would be great for me and I suspect many of your listeners. Thanks again for taking the time to share your music and love of music, especially on that Tenor :-) (I’m a little bias). Take Care.
Glen Holiday. Top video Matt. I admire your honesty, & identify with your saxophone journey. I found your monologue was as much a lesson in honesty & how to be humble, as it was tuition wise. i especially liked your description on how you achieve your sound. I listen to all your stuff. You are a very fine player. It's great for ideas also. Thanks a lot.
Matthew, love this video , great information and explained very well. I have been arching you for years now . You say about finding your voice and sticking to alto or tenor. I have been playing 6 years self taught and practice everyday. I play both alto and tenor and unsure which I’m more suited too and to spend more time with. If you get a chance and time could you have a look at my recordings I only have about 7 songs but if possible have a quick listen and tell me what you think I’m more suited to tenor or alto . Again great channel and good luck. Regards
I really enjoyed this video! Please make another one soon. I know how hard it is to find time with family and work commitments. You have a special gift, and I hope you can make time to share it. Thanks for what you have created. Very Best Regards to you and your family.
Hi Matthew! Good you’re back. Loved to hear the story of how you started on the sax. Just wanted to thank you and let you know that you are the reason I started my own sax journey. I was going through youtube one day and by pure chance saw your rendition of My Happy Velentine. I thought then and still do know that it is absolutely beautiful. U said right there abd then that I was going to learn sax. If I can ever get to play half as good as you I’ll be a happy man. Thanks again
THANK YOU for sharing and giving the tips. Yes, please give us both music and tips. You are among my top 3 favorite sax players because of tone, timing, and expression; the other two are Ben Webster and Stan Getz - so you are in the company of the best pros in my estimation. So don't think too low of your playing. I have been inspired to work at my instruments because of you. And yes, please do post music, even if it is the same tunes you have posted many years back; you always bring a fresh interpretation because you continue to form. From time to time I listen to your 2009 vs 2013 vs 2016 and the same tunes are always fresh. I really enjoy each era of your music. Because I am such a fan I have hung on every word of this 34 minutes talk. However, I agree with others that if you want to use talking as a forum, small tips and tricks in 5 to 13 minute segments would be ideal and TREMENDOUS. Please do it! Play a song segment - then give us a tip and technique or visa versa; it will be a GREAT HIT help us learn from the best. Open a Patreon account too so that people and can show appreciation!
Great video Matt -- very informative and candid. I enjoy your soprano and tenor videos and always wondered how you got to where you are today --- going through many of the trials with my own soprano and tenor. best regards Doug
Hello Matthew. Love your music and enjoyed this video as well. I'd be interested in a short video on the nuts and bolts of self recording for UA-cam etc., Specifically, what equipment for audio and video recording, what software and where do you get the backing tracks you use. As for your music, I enjoy listening to you as much as I do my favorite players, which include Art Pepper, Scott Hamilton, Houston Person, Dave Koz and more.. All the best!
I Matthew Stone, many thanks for sharing part of your life, I have been following your work for 2 years now, I think I download 90% of your public saxophone musics, it helped me listening and playing your musics at the same time of you as a playing exercise, and it helped me a lot to develop my skills - I play tenor. Many thanks for all and please keep playing and sharing. My very best regards Carlos Pimentel
Hi Matthew,great video really interesting ideas,what you said at the end about working on a song would be great to see and hear how you go about it.Thanks.
Matthew thanks for a brilliant talk, you have said a lot of things i thought only myself would think about ( if that makes sense) and made it easier for me to understand that other players have the same problems .
Thank you Matthew for this great video! I see a lot of similarities in my journey in playing the saxophone, and like you stated: it’s a life-long learning path but I enjoy it very much. ‘Owning’ a song or finding the shape of a song has actually been my biggest shift in playing as well. The song I am currently working on is On Green Dolphin Street, which hold a lot of nice changes, so that might be a nice one for one of your next videos? Stan Getz did a great version on one of the live albums recorded in Copenhagen late eighties or so, I think it was the Serenity album. In terms of knowing the shape of the song: he knew it inside out, and is just referencing the melody at times. A beautiful, personalized version of a great song.
Hi Matthew, I've been listening to you, intermittently, for a while now. But I only paid close attention (not a critic to your playing) to your channel a couple of days ago when I went to click the "I licke this" (on a TV) And note that I was not subscribed to your channel, despite remembering to be subscribed. I subscribed and keep watching videos on your channel. Every time subscribing and every time finding that I am not subscribed! I Try on the computer today with the same result :( Anyway this video has been fantastic. It has given me peace, hope and a clearer north. It would be great to hear from you again. But if not... I find here enough to work for a looooong time. Thank you. Jorge
Welcome back!!! I'm not a musician, I'm a listener and I enjoy your playing. I like your idea of playing a tune and explaining some of the interesting/fine points of it. By the way, I love most of the tunes you play, but one tune got stuck with me, I don't know why. Detour Ahead. Big fan!
Francisco Barroso Thank you! If I do some more talking ones, I’ll keep it simple and hopefully interesting...I might try detour ahead again.....a personal favourite!
Thanks Matthew. I'm a big fan, your videos and saxophone journey are really inspiring, giving me something to aim for in terms of both jazz tone and improvisation. We all have that sound in our hear we aspire to, you are mine. I regularly 'play along' with your videos and try to improve my tone each day. I'd love to learn more about your approach to improvisation and chord changes, and have the opportunity to understand how you perhaps one of the great ballads. My particular favourite is My One and Only Love. I'd also really love to to know what works for you in terms of recording set up. Thanks for sharing your journey and being an inspiration.
Hi Matthew, finally, the man behind the music. I love your videos! I am a beginner and also self taught. I do hope you will do a video on how to improvise over a simple song like All of me. More power to you!
Hello Matthew! thanks for your videos I saw in Uruguay and I am self-taught, I speak Spanish and I am watching your videos. With this video, I understood why when I want to play some music, first I search if you do it. I find it easy to understand your improvisations after you explained how you do it. . . and help me
Thanks Matthew, nice to hear from you again.. and nice to hear about your musical journey.. Could you tell a little bit more about your soprano journey? How did you chose your mouthpiece and reed.. How did you manage to keep the high octave sound nice.. What kind of reeds did you try.. I think it's a great idea to talk about a jazz standard.. and play it. I hope you'll have time to do more movies.. I prefer some soprano movies. Cheers.
Good video ,agree with all you said , look forward to the next one . You asked for suggestions for a jazz standard , All of me ? Misty ? or Sunny side of the street?
Hi Matthew, first off thanks for all of your videos. I find them useful, inspiring and enjoyable. This one is no exception; hearing your journey and getting to know your approach is interesting and informative. I definitely hope you will continue to make these more instructional videos in addition to posting videos of your playing. I do have a few specific requests since you asked: 1) for those of us considering starting to record ourselves (either for posting or personal review, maybe eventually both) can you please elaborate on tools, process, other resources and suggestions for getting the most out of time & energy invested in the recording process, and additionally 2) with the plethora of things to practice (chords, patterns, scales, songs, long tones, technique, etc.) how do you organize and prioritize to maximize your practice schedule, time, and (short to longer term) goals. Thanks in advance and very much looking forward to your future videos, cheers!
Great stuff Matthew, really enjoyed that. You won't remember, but you helped me several years to upload my one and only sax performance onto UA-cam (it's still on here) and, at that time, you helped me with the technical stuff about codec and syncing music to video etc. Software has moved on a bit as UA-cam has become more popular, so it's now a bit more user friendly than it was, but I'd still like a look at your 'behind the scenes' of how you record and upload, including the editing bit - if you can!!! Meanwhile, I'm still trying to get round to doing my second video!!!
I do remember, and I’m pleased that you are at least making me look positively prolific. I might do a “how to record” one, but there are now so many ways to do that...even from a phone. Thank you for the kind words!
Thanks Matthew.. as a beginning player I really valued the recordings of standards you posted and was working at getting to understand your notes in relation to chords. Then something happened where I think you included just such an analysis in a post and someone accused you of not being good enough or qualified to do such a thing?!!.. I was so gutted when you seemed to believe that absolute nonsense and your valuable posts dryed up! It is a great pleasure to now see you back on youtube.. and if ever you feel inclined to continue with your analytical/explanatory type posts, ignoring irrelevant naysayers along the way, I think I can safely say I wont be the only one welcoming you with open arms!.. Thanks for everything you've done for us Matthew.. Wishing you the very best.. :)))
Hi Matthew! Fantastic to see you back on UA-cam. I began playing the tenor sax at the age of 60 and my teacher and I have used a lot of your videos to help me with my tone and improvisation. I love the way you play the sax. It’s how I want to play. You are such a great player, please don’t be apologetic about anything. Also I’d like to know who you play small combo, chilled ballads with. Which band? And would you consider travelling to Derbyshire to play at my 70th birthday party next year?
Hi Sue Hepworth, thank you for such kind words, and I’m so pleased you too found the sax later on in life! I rehearse twice a month with a good pianist and bass player, and occasionally drummer too. We do gig, and I also gig with others a few times a year. Yes I’m sure we can travel if the dates work out, I’ll send you a message
Hi, Matthew! I hope you are doing well! I really enjoy watching your videos. (This one was specially interesting!). Unfortunately, it seems you lately don't have time to record. Your last post was from October 2019. Please, return recording your songs on a regular basis. I do appreciate your worm sound on tenor and soprano and your improvisation (basic but efficient, not boring) I hope to watch a new video soon. Stay safe.
Hi Matthew, I like your sound very much. I am also playing Tenor-Alto-Soprano Sax together with a Pianist, also I am managing a Big Band in Berlin and playing alto sax in the band. But I am not very experienced in using technic stuff. But we both like the BosaNova sound of Stan Gets. Can you explain which technic you are using to get playback and also your sound together with video together in a clip, also how to get reverb into the translation from the mike to the computer. Your Sax sounds very professional with this kind of tuning. I would be very interested to do this in a similar way here at home in Berlin for myself in my room to get more better playing sax for myself. I have iMac, Ibook, iPad and some loudspeakers also. But not nothing else. Also it would be helpful to know how you bring it up to the computer also which software you use for recording. Would be very nice to hear from you about this equipment, so now I have much more time to realize something because I'm retired since last year. Any Way keep swinging and it would be nice to hear from you. Thanks in advance. Br Daniel siemens-bigband.de
That was informative and nicely done. I think that it's great that you let us get to know you a bit. Where do you get your backing tracks from? I have been learning some jazz piano as well and I find that playing the piano really helps me to better understand music theory.
Hello Mathew. Intresting when you drop your jaw, You get more volume in the tone like Ben Webster , I play Chromatic Harmonica and its hard but fun. I must .practice as you say more to learn Chord scales and put more in to the tune I want to put up more on UA-cam. Best Regards Lennart Sweden
Glad to see you back...I really enjoy listening to your playing and sound. Hey, on many of your many video's, you have some of the best play alongs I hear on UA-cam... Is there anyway, you can create a listing of the play alongs you used on your video's... My favorite Matthew Stone video's is Little Sun Flower ( - ua-cam.com/video/GgxuNaChd-c/v-deo.html this has a video of your daughter playing in a field), what play along are you using on this song...as well as others?, Thanks for the video...Thanks, gk
Hi Matthew, long time no see! So it's very good to hear from you again and to learn that you are still into music/jazz. I have greatly enjoyed you talking about music and people who were important for your musical development. Thank you for this!
Ulrich Höbler Hi! We’ve been on this journey for a long time now! You have always been so kind and motivating, I’m looking forward to putting up some more stuff soon!
My favorite Matthew Stone video's is Little Sun Flower ( - ua-cam.com/video/GgxuNaChd-c/v-deo.html this has a video of your daughter playing in a field), what play along are you using on this song...as well as others?
Hi Matthew. I’ve watched almost all of your videos and I truly admire the skill you have developed on the sax especially on soprano. I’d like to know whether or not you use a classical or “relaxed” embouchure when playing certain Jazz standards? I’m trying to improve mine and am curious to know from a professional
When I try to articulate phrases gently with my tongue each note has an audible 't' or 'd' when the air begins to flow. I don’t hear this in any of your lines. Are you using a breath attack exclusively or tonguing very delicately? Thanks.
Noted your points...but the issue is when you tried to explain saxophone sound ( somewhere from 24.45)... Have you noticed that it does not sound like the way what you sound on your recordings? So you also do something to get rid of those acuistic saxophone noise or for smooth sound... Could you please explain what settings we should use in effect section ( like noise gate, or reverb, delay, equaliser...etc)
Hi Sandeep Banerjee, I use just light compression and a little reverb, in Logic. The most important aspect is to isolate your sax sound on that track by using headphones to record the instrument with the backing playing in your headphones only
@@matthewstonesax would you mind accepting my friend request in facebook so that I can send you my sample recordings where I'm trying hard to copy your tone.
George possibly... I appreciate all good playing though, sometimes formally educated, sometimes not. Art Pepper (formal) and Chet Baker (Not formal) both good examples
Chestnut, try a soft reed, file cut, and a large chamber dark mouthpiece I.e, Jody jazz hard rubber or Otto link. The jazz sound is sometimes more about the little slurs and bends though, rather than the tone.
@@matthewstonesax I know you're not supposed to mess around too much with trying different mouthpieces, but I'm glad that I settled on the Jody Jazz HR after trying a couple of others. I'd recommend it.
As a 73 year old beginner it,s nice to know my immediate playing problems are others too. Horn gets used about 1 hour a day so never going to be Stan the man as life wont be long enough but do play for enjoyment. Anyway please keep these videos coming as very informative. Thanks Alan
Thanks Alan, you’ll soon be up to speed, just think of all that listening you’ve done....and that’s the most important part!
Thank you Matthew!!! I have had a similar journey in learning and loving to play Jazz Saxophone........ and in trying to digest and learn the MASSIVE amount of theory and information that enhances our playing and makes it even more fulfilling. Your honesty and candor are refreshing and GREATLY appreciated as well, and serve as a confirmation of my struggles and efforts too. I have followed your channel for a long time and I respect you for being so willing to let us share your growth and development along the way. I would LOVE to hear you do more of this style of video!!
Thank you Sefano, really appreciate the feedback. I’m just working on some more advanced theory, tritone substitutions, it has left me cold in the past....I’m going to try and pass that on here if I can. It’s finding the application that’s the most difficult aspect. Nice to know I’m not alone!
Only ever listened to your playing before..nice to hear you speak,..very interesting take on your approach to bettering one's playing...look forward to more tutorials..
It was very nice to hear You talk, I listen to Your recordings as much as all the rest sax music together. You play beautifully. I bought and started playing tenor 9 years ago after hearing You. Wish You Merry Christmas and many more years of playing and recording.
Matthew, I subscribed to your channel for a few months ago. I chanced across you in early-to-mid 2019. I have always enjoyed your playing and use it as inspiration as I have been learning to play and develop my skills on this wonderful instrument called the saxophone. It is so very good to hear you voice and I am very grateful to have heard your story.
I have been playing for just over 4 years and I can relate to many of the things you have spoken about. I would absolutely like it, if you posted a "vlog", say monthly or fortnightly. That is a fantastic offering!
Many of the things you have discussed, concerning your journey have either reinforced or clarified some perspectives I love to take in as I walk my own path.
Keep posting your performances and treat us to your thought process as you play a song. I quite enjoyed this video!
Cheers!
Thank you for your unpretentious, honest and wise advice.
Great video, Matthew, particularly your thoughts on improvisation. Cheers!
Hi Mathew , it’s nice about to hear your musical journey . I think you’ve saved me a lot of wasted time ie, equipment browsing , forums etc , and pointing out that making sure the equipment is serviceable. I love jazz . I played sax for a couple of years a while ago and always made your videos one of my stops and thought , I’d love to play like you so , Thankyou for all the brilliant videos . I did get sidetracked onto another instrument at that point ( fiddle ) but am now back having another go at sax . Please be assured that your videos are an excellent resource for would be sax players and are inspirational , especially after hearing you story . You’re an excellent player with a beautiful tone . Keep up the great work and all the best . 🙂
arstor1 what lovely kind words, thank you
Love your embouchure advice, that was very clear, thank you.
What an excellent video. So informative
Thanks Mathew
For someone who hates reading you have a hell of a lot of books behind you lol, , I've only been playing for a year (Tenor) and I seem to be following in your early footsteps, However, I totally agree that Tone is a very important factor that I am struggling with so I will be trying out your jaw dropping theory in my next practice session, Loved listening to you, Thanks Matthew
Thanks Matthew! Your playing has been an inspiration! :)
Thanks for sharing Matthew... This is very helpful.
Thanks for sharing your journey with us. I would suggest to do short videos, that’s not to say this one is not any good, just that if you are learning something, shorter videos and ones that get to the point are easier to follow and more enjoyable. The one thing I love about your playing is your tone. I think you could probably do several short vids just on that.
I think I'm talking in behalf of many here when I say we really missed your presence and videos on UA-cam. Welcome back!
I always looked up to your video performances and thought you were/are very very good.
Now that I finally watched your first"talk" video I appreciate you even more so.
You come across Veri humble and with some doubts and fears just like a real person should be. What a refreshing thing is that! Thank you for telling us where you coming from, why and how you learned and giving us great tips.
I am all for more tutorial and tips videos, please keep them coming my way!
Thanks
Welcome back, your sax videos have been a great inspiration to me over the past 3 years as a late beginner sax player.
Hi Matthew. I never got around to seeking you out for a 'sit-in' did I? Unfortunately my wife became ill with Parkinson's and has now gone into full time care. So my gigging days are few and far between. As I have cataracts to get fixed, I can't use my car either, so I am stuck at home. Currently improving my music room and might put up some more videos. (I play mostly solo guitar now,; i.e. sans backing tracks.) Enjoyed listening to your musings... is it time to tell a few stories of your travels when gigging then? Best of luck and nice to know you aren't giving up! Almost forgot to ask; does the reed vibrate on the lips and tongue'? I think It would be like chalk squeaking on a board to me! Regards John
You have an awesome soprano sound Mathew 😎👍🏻
This is a great video Matthew. I play and post stuff myself but nothing like you.
I enjoy your sax playing, very much.
Great video Matt - refreshingly simple. I sometimes think that there is so much out there on the internet that instead of it being a resource it actually becomes an obstacle to progress as you are dragged in so many different directions and rather than making real progress on one aspect you make very little progress on many aspects. I too was a relatively late starter being the grand old age of 26 (now 56!) before picking up the instrument and its great to see that a later starter can as you have done achieve such a high standard of playing. I also struggle with my reading and my time and having watched this video I think that I will just bite the bullet and get lessons specifically for reading. I play in a jazz ensemble in a music school and on the night of a new tune I'm usually struggling to keep up with the more proficient readers. Looking forward to the next one. Keep them coming. PS we're doing Henderson's Black Narcissus at the moment and it would be great to see your interpretation of that tune.
gib321, I’m pleased you liked it.....and I feel your pain regarding reading. I’m still not great, but I accept my limitations. I struggle to read time, and I’m much better without the instrument, it seems that I’m too bothered about making it sound good. I therefore tap out or sing the part first. I’ve just listened to Black Narcissus...wow! I love that scale that he plays...if I can find a backing track, I’ll work on that!
Matt, Great to hear you will be recording again!! I really enjoyed your talk, great advice for us ‘recreational’ players who want to use our time wisely to get better. Please do more of this type of video; especially looking at say a jazz standard, deciding how you want to play/improvise over it would be great for me and I suspect many of your listeners. Thanks again for taking the time to share your music and love of music, especially on that Tenor :-) (I’m a little bias). Take Care.
Glen Holiday. Top video Matt. I admire your honesty, & identify with your saxophone journey. I found your monologue was as much a lesson in honesty & how to be humble, as it was tuition wise. i especially liked your description on how you achieve your sound. I listen to all your stuff. You are a very fine player. It's great for ideas also. Thanks a lot.
Matthew, love this video , great information and explained very well. I have been arching you for years now . You say about finding your voice and sticking to alto or tenor. I have been playing 6 years self taught and practice everyday. I play both alto and tenor and unsure which I’m more suited too and to spend more time with. If you get a chance and time could you have a look at my recordings I only have about 7 songs but if possible have a quick listen and tell me what you think I’m more suited to tenor or alto .
Again great channel and good luck.
Regards
I really enjoyed this video! Please make another one soon.
I know how hard it is to find time with family and work commitments.
You have a special gift, and I hope you can make time to share it.
Thanks for what you have created. Very Best Regards to you and your family.
What happened dude.? A great video, you finally talk, lots of great ideas for future vids... then radio silence. What did we do?
Hi Matthew! Good you’re back. Loved to hear the story of how you started on the sax. Just wanted to thank you and let you know that you are the reason I started my own sax journey. I was going through youtube one day and by pure chance saw your rendition of My Happy Velentine. I thought then and still do know that it is absolutely beautiful. U said right there abd then that I was going to learn sax. If I can ever get to play half as good as you I’ll be a happy man. Thanks again
M experience Happy Valentine gorgeous rendition & inspiring talk!
thanks, great tips for someone starting!
welcome back. Thanks for the good tips. I'd like to see more you talk about a music and play.
I like the bit at 24 minutes where you start talking like Cornballs.
THANK YOU for sharing and giving the tips. Yes, please give us both music and tips.
You are among my top 3 favorite sax players because of tone, timing, and expression; the other two are Ben Webster and Stan Getz - so you are in the company of the best pros in my estimation. So don't think too low of your playing.
I have been inspired to work at my instruments because of you. And yes, please do post music, even if it is the same tunes you have posted many years back; you always bring a fresh interpretation because you continue to form. From time to time I listen to your 2009 vs 2013 vs 2016 and the same tunes are always fresh. I really enjoy each era of your music.
Because I am such a fan I have hung on every word of this 34 minutes talk. However, I agree with others that if you want to use talking as a forum, small tips and tricks in 5 to 13 minute segments would be ideal and TREMENDOUS. Please do it! Play a song segment - then give us a tip and technique or visa versa; it will be a GREAT HIT help us learn from the best. Open a Patreon account too so that people and can show appreciation!
Great video Matt -- very informative and candid. I enjoy your soprano and tenor videos and always wondered how you got to where you are today --- going through many of the trials with my own soprano and tenor. best regards Doug
Hello Matthew. Love your music and enjoyed this video as well. I'd be interested in a short video on the nuts and bolts of self recording for UA-cam etc., Specifically, what equipment for audio and video recording, what software and where do you get the backing tracks you use. As for your music, I enjoy listening to you as much as I do my favorite players, which include Art Pepper, Scott Hamilton, Houston Person, Dave Koz and more.. All the best!
I echo that as regard recording equipment
I Matthew Stone, many thanks for sharing part of your life, I have been following your work for 2 years now, I think I download 90% of your public saxophone musics, it helped me listening and playing your musics at the same time of you as a playing exercise, and it helped me a lot to develop my skills - I play tenor. Many thanks for all and please keep playing and sharing. My very best regards Carlos Pimentel
Carlos Tavares thank you so much! Keep at it!
Hi Matthew,great video really interesting ideas,what you said at the end about working on a song would be great to see and hear how you go about it.Thanks.
Matthew thanks for a brilliant talk, you have said a lot of things i thought only myself would think about ( if that makes sense) and made it easier for me to understand that other players have the same problems .
Thank you Matthew for this great video! I see a lot of similarities in my journey in playing the saxophone, and like you stated: it’s a life-long learning path but I enjoy it very much. ‘Owning’ a song or finding the shape of a song has actually been my biggest shift in playing as well. The song I am currently working on is On Green Dolphin Street, which hold a lot of nice changes, so that might be a nice one for one of your next videos? Stan Getz did a great version on one of the live albums recorded in Copenhagen late eighties or so, I think it was the Serenity album. In terms of knowing the shape of the song: he knew it inside out, and is just referencing the melody at times. A beautiful, personalized version of a great song.
Hi Matthew, I've been listening to you, intermittently, for a while now. But I only paid close attention (not a critic to your playing) to your channel a couple of days ago when I went to click the "I licke this" (on a TV) And note that I was not subscribed to your channel, despite remembering to be subscribed.
I subscribed and keep watching videos on your channel. Every time subscribing and every time finding that I am not subscribed! I Try on the computer today with the same result :(
Anyway this video has been fantastic. It has given me peace, hope and a clearer north. It would be great to hear from you again. But if not... I find here enough to work for a looooong time. Thank you.
Jorge
Welcome back!!! I'm not a musician, I'm a listener and I enjoy your playing. I like your idea of playing a tune and explaining some of the interesting/fine points of it. By the way, I love most of the tunes you play, but one tune got stuck with me, I don't know why. Detour Ahead. Big fan!
Francisco Barroso Thank you! If I do some more talking ones, I’ll keep it simple and hopefully interesting...I might try detour ahead again.....a personal favourite!
Thanks Matthew. I'm a big fan, your videos and saxophone journey are really inspiring, giving me something to aim for in terms of both jazz tone and improvisation. We all have that sound in our hear we aspire to, you are mine. I regularly 'play along' with your videos and try to improve my tone each day. I'd love to learn more about your approach to improvisation and chord changes, and have the opportunity to understand how you perhaps one of the great ballads. My particular favourite is My One and Only Love. I'd also really love to to know what works for you in terms of recording set up. Thanks for sharing your journey and being an inspiration.
Hi Matthew, finally, the man behind the music. I love your videos! I am a beginner and also self taught. I do hope you will do a video on how to improvise over a simple song like All of me. More power to you!
Great Mathew. I enjoy your playing 🤗lennart Sweden.
Great video. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, some interesting tips there.
Hello Matthew! thanks for your videos I saw in Uruguay and I am self-taught, I speak Spanish and I am watching your videos. With this video, I understood why when I want to play some music, first I search if you do it. I find it easy to understand your improvisations after you explained how you do it. . . and help me
Thanks Matthew, nice to hear from you again.. and nice to hear about your musical journey.. Could you tell a little bit more about your soprano journey? How did you chose your mouthpiece and reed.. How did you manage to keep the high octave sound nice.. What kind of reeds did you try.. I think it's a great idea to talk about a jazz standard.. and play it. I hope you'll have time to do more movies.. I prefer some soprano movies. Cheers.
I'm a cool jazz lover and I love the way you play jazz! Actually I like your idea of playing more. Many thanks!!! Hope it'll be more helpful videos!!!
I really liked your talk.
Good video ,agree with all you said , look forward to the next one .
You asked for suggestions for a jazz standard , All of me ? Misty ? or Sunny side of the street?
Hi Matthew, first off thanks for all of your videos. I find them useful, inspiring and enjoyable. This one is no exception; hearing your journey and getting to know your approach is interesting and informative. I definitely hope you will continue to make these more instructional videos in addition to posting videos of your playing. I do have a few specific requests since you asked: 1) for those of us considering starting to record ourselves (either for posting or personal review, maybe eventually both) can you please elaborate on tools, process, other resources and suggestions for getting the most out of time & energy invested in the recording process, and additionally 2) with the plethora of things to practice (chords, patterns, scales, songs, long tones, technique, etc.) how do you organize and prioritize to maximize your practice schedule, time, and (short to longer term) goals. Thanks in advance and very much looking forward to your future videos, cheers!
Jany&Mike Pautz thank you. I’m hoping to do one very shortly!
Awesome vid Matt 👍😎🎷
Great stuff Matthew, really enjoyed that. You won't remember, but you helped me several years to upload my one and only sax performance onto UA-cam (it's still on here) and, at that time, you helped me with the technical stuff about codec and syncing music to video etc. Software has moved on a bit as UA-cam has become more popular, so it's now a bit more user friendly than it was, but I'd still like a look at your 'behind the scenes' of how you record and upload, including the editing bit - if you can!!! Meanwhile, I'm still trying to get round to doing my second video!!!
I do remember, and I’m pleased that you are at least making me look positively prolific. I might do a “how to record” one, but there are now so many ways to do that...even from a phone. Thank you for the kind words!
Thanks Matthew.. as a beginning player I really valued the recordings of standards you posted and was working at getting to understand your notes in relation to chords. Then something happened where I think you included just such an analysis in a post and someone accused you of not being good enough or qualified to do such a thing?!!.. I was so gutted when you seemed to believe that absolute nonsense and your valuable posts dryed up! It is a great pleasure to now see you back on youtube.. and if ever you feel inclined to continue with your analytical/explanatory type posts, ignoring irrelevant naysayers along the way, I think I can safely say I wont be the only one welcoming you with open arms!.. Thanks for everything you've done for us Matthew.. Wishing you the very best.. :)))
Robert Brittain thank you so much! Yes, I was deterred for a while... but I will try and do something soon
Im so glad to see you again on UA-cam :)
Hi Matthew! Fantastic to see you back on UA-cam. I began playing the tenor sax at the age of 60 and my teacher and I have used a lot of your videos to help me with my tone and improvisation.
I love the way you play the sax. It’s how I want to play.
You are such a great player, please don’t be apologetic about anything.
Also I’d like to know who you play small combo, chilled ballads with. Which band? And would you consider travelling to Derbyshire to play at my 70th birthday party next year?
Hi Sue Hepworth, thank you for such kind words, and I’m so pleased you too found the sax later on in life! I rehearse twice a month with a good pianist and bass player, and occasionally drummer too. We do gig, and I also gig with others a few times a year. Yes I’m sure we can travel if the dates work out, I’ll send you a message
Hi, I’m a big follower, Can you make video explaining the 2-5-2 progression pls??
I truly enjoyed this post!!
Hi, Matthew! I hope you are doing well! I really enjoy watching your videos. (This one was specially interesting!). Unfortunately, it seems you lately don't have time to record. Your last post was from October 2019. Please, return recording your songs on a regular basis. I do appreciate your worm sound on tenor and soprano and your improvisation (basic but efficient, not boring) I hope to watch a new video soon. Stay safe.
Hi Matthew,
I like your sound very much. I am also playing Tenor-Alto-Soprano Sax together with a Pianist, also I am managing a Big Band in Berlin and playing alto sax in the band. But I am not very experienced in using technic stuff. But we both like the BosaNova sound of Stan Gets.
Can you explain which technic you are using to get playback and also your sound together with video together in a clip, also how to get reverb into the translation from the mike to the computer. Your Sax sounds very professional with this kind of tuning.
I would be very interested to do this in a similar way here at home in Berlin for myself in my room to get more better playing sax for myself. I have iMac, Ibook, iPad and some loudspeakers also. But not nothing else. Also it would be helpful to know how you bring it up to the computer also which software you use for recording.
Would be very nice to hear from you about this equipment, so now I have much more time to realize something because I'm retired since last year.
Any Way keep swinging and it would be nice to hear from you. Thanks in advance.
Br Daniel
siemens-bigband.de
I love this kind of video!!!
That was informative and nicely done. I think that it's great that you let us get to know you a bit. Where do you get your backing tracks from?
I have been learning some jazz piano as well and I find that playing the piano really helps me to better understand music theory.
Hello Mathew. Intresting when you drop your jaw, You get more volume in the tone like Ben Webster , I play Chromatic Harmonica and its hard but fun. I must .practice as you say more to learn Chord scales and put more in to the tune I want to put up more on UA-cam. Best Regards Lennart Sweden
You will never run out of new things to say Matthew. I think you know it too. :)
Glad to see you back...I really enjoy listening to your playing and sound. Hey, on many of your many video's, you have some of the best play alongs I hear on UA-cam... Is there anyway, you can create a listing of the play alongs you used on your video's... My favorite Matthew Stone video's is Little Sun Flower ( - ua-cam.com/video/GgxuNaChd-c/v-deo.html this has a video of your daughter playing in a field), what play along are you using on this song...as well as others?, Thanks for the video...Thanks, gk
CrazyDaisyDoo! We have missed you. Here and at SOTW.
Dave Taylor thank you, maybe I’m not so positive about forums here, but it was a great help. (Not relationship enhancing ;-))
Hi Matthew, long time no see! So it's very good to hear from you again and to learn that you are still into music/jazz. I have greatly enjoyed you talking about
music and people who were important for your musical development. Thank you for this!
Ulrich Höbler Hi! We’ve been on this journey for a long time now! You have always been so kind and motivating, I’m looking forward to putting up some more stuff soon!
My favorite Matthew Stone video's is Little Sun Flower ( - ua-cam.com/video/GgxuNaChd-c/v-deo.html this has a video of your daughter playing in a field), what play along are you using on this song...as well as others?
Hi Matthew. I’ve watched almost all of your videos and I truly admire the skill you have developed on the sax especially on soprano.
I’d like to know whether or not you use a classical or “relaxed” embouchure when playing certain Jazz standards? I’m trying to improve mine and am curious to know from a professional
When I try to articulate phrases gently with my tongue each note has an audible 't' or 'd' when the air begins to flow. I don’t hear this in any of your lines. Are you using a breath attack exclusively or tonguing very delicately? Thanks.
Noted your points...but the issue is when you tried to explain saxophone sound ( somewhere from 24.45)...
Have you noticed that it does not sound like the way what you sound on your recordings?
So you also do something to get rid of those acuistic saxophone noise or for smooth sound...
Could you please explain what settings we should use in effect section ( like noise gate, or reverb, delay, equaliser...etc)
Hi Sandeep Banerjee, I use just light compression and a little reverb, in Logic. The most important aspect is to isolate your sax sound on that track by using headphones to record the instrument with the backing playing in your headphones only
@@matthewstonesax would you mind accepting my friend request in facebook so that I can send you my sample recordings where I'm trying hard to copy your tone.
good conference man
Please post videos again.
No need for the caveat, all music was "self taught" at some point! Love your stuff on sax, really inspiring.
I love your sax tone! What soprano do you use?
Hello Matthew. How about your daughter, is she still playing?
Individuals with former education are the less creative of all. Please keep going your way. Regards
George possibly... I appreciate all good playing though, sometimes formally educated, sometimes not. Art Pepper (formal) and Chet Baker (Not formal) both good examples
Any tips on getting a good jazz sound out of a tenor?
Chestnut, try a soft reed, file cut, and a large chamber dark mouthpiece I.e, Jody jazz hard rubber or Otto link. The jazz sound is sometimes more about the little slurs and bends though, rather than the tone.
@@matthewstonesax I know you're not supposed to mess around too much with trying different mouthpieces, but I'm glad that I settled on the Jody Jazz HR after trying a couple of others. I'd recommend it.