The Michael Brecker International Saxophone Competition is
delighted to announce the eight semi-finalists for their inaugural competition.
Artem Badenko, Niall Cade, Nathan Bellott, Alex Hahn, Sheridan Hitchcock, Sean
Payne, Daniel Varga and Alex Weitz will compete for the top 3 prizes. The final
two rounds are to be held at the Red Sea Jazz Festival in Eilat, Israel from
August 25 through August 27.
By virtue of their selection, each of the semi-finalists
embody the spirit and influence that Michael Brecker’s artistry will impact for
generations to come. Brecker’s discography of more than 900 albums features
work with his brother Randy and Frank Zappa, Herbie Hancock, Aerosmith, James
Brown, Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, Lou Reed, Funkadelic, Bruce Springsteen,
Steely Dan, John Lennon, Elton John, Chick Corea, and Pat Metheny, among
others. Hailed by The New York Times as “among the most influential musicians
in jazz since the 1960s,” Brecker passed away in 2007 at 57 years old after a
battle with leukemia.
As a result of his stylistic and harmonic innovations, the
15-time Grammy winner will forever be regarded as one of the most eminent
saxophonists of this or any generation. He loved the company of musicians and
especially aspiring young saxophonists. He would listen to the unsolicited
tapes received, would return with feedback, and would always take time to speak
to young musicians following his gigs. In his characteristically humble way,
Michael had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel special. In recognition of
Michael’s generosity, and to assist in providing ballast to deserving careers,
The Michael Brecker International Saxophone Competition was created. The
mission of the competition is to assist in the launch of emerging,
exceptionally talented saxophonists.
Susan Brecker, Michael’s widow and a co-founder of the
competition said, “It is a wonderful honor. Michael was always supportive of
young saxophonists and would have been delighted and humbled.” Added her
co-founder Darryl Pitt — Michael’s former manager who encouraged Michael to
appear at the inaugural Red Sea Jazz Festival to help the Festival get started,
“Mike was an astounding musician and an even better man; I miss him dearly—as
does everyone who was blessed to have him in their lives.”
The preliminary judges for the competition included
critically acclaimed saxophonists Melissa Aldana, Marcus Strickland and Ben
Wendel, who made their decisions solely based on the recorded performances
provided. Each applicant was assigned a number and the judges were not provided
any further information.
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