Ear Expansion with Sam Newsome

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a deep and introspective conversation with saxophonist Sam Newsome. The dialogue explores Sam's early musical formation, his experience playing post bop tenor saxophone with Terrence Blanchard, and his radical transition to solo performances on the soprano saxophone. Sam recounts his journey of finding his own voice, the challenges faced during his transitional period, and how the soprano saxophone allowed him new avenues of expression and individuality. They delve into the concept of 'instrumentational language,' the philosophical grounding behind Sam's work, and the innovative techniques he developed, including prepared saxophone methods using various materials. Furthermore, the discussion touches on the poetics of breath and the deep interdependence between Sam's breath and the soprano horn's voice, revealing an evolution from jazz orthodoxy to a sound-centered, improvisational language. The episode concludes with personal reflections on sound, resonances, and the profound lesson of staying in the moment during musical performance.