Interview with Jim Snidero
I first learned of Jim Snidero in the early 1990s when a friend took a bass clarinet lesson from me in exchange for a recording of a great player that I wasn’t familiar with. I was then given a copy of one of Jim’s first albums as a leader, “Mixed Bag,” and I have been a fan of his since. I was fortunate enough to have Jim as a member of the jazz faculty at my university for several years in the early part of the Millenium and observed his serious approach to music. Jim’s dedication to the study of the alto saxophone, the reverence he holds for the great bebop altoists who serve as his role models, and his artistic approach to jazz have resulted in a unique individual voice that has endeared him to several generations of jazz enthusiasts. During our interview, he provides thoughtful comments on a variety of topics affecting professionals and students alike. I hope that you will find this interview inspiring and serve as a basis to investigate his recordings and publications.
*Opening Panel Audio Track:
Tippin’—Title track from album
**Closing Panel Audio Track:
You Go To My Head from “For All We Know”
About the Artist
Jim Snidero has been at the forefront of jazz alto saxophonists for over 40 years. He has recorded 27 albums as a leader and is in the process of recording his next album–a tribute to Charlie Parker. Each of his recording projects includes a wide array of the finest jazz performers active today, indicative of Jim’s desire to explore and challenge himself in different musical settings. He has also been an active sideman having played and/or recorded with artists such as Jack McDuff, Eddie Palmieri, Frank Wess, Brian Lynch, Sting, Frank Sinatra and been a member of The Mingus Big Band and the Toshiko Akiyoshi–Lew Tabackin Big Band. His performances have garnered him accolades among critics and seen Jim placed at the top of the alto saxophone soloist category in jazz polls for many years. A devoted jazz music educator, Jim Snidero has penned 3 major publications over the past 28 years that have been among the most popular books used by educational institutions as well as individuals. The Jazz Conception Series, The Essence of the Blues, and The Essence of Bebop can all be purchased through Jim’s website along with more information about this influential contemporary artist. Please visit: www.Jimsnidero.com.