Description
This is a new series of lessons based off the playing and style of the great tenor saxophone player Dexter Gordon. Dexter Gordon had one of the most recognized saxophone sounds of all time. Most sax players can instantly recognize his sound, style and technique within second of hearing him.
In this series of lessons, we will focus on different aspects of Dexter Gordon’s playing including sound, phrasing, licks, embouchure and other varied techniques. I will talk about each of these concepts in depth and how to best implement them in your own playing. In these first 3 lessons, I will begin to walk you through a transcription I made of a great 9 chorus Dexter solo over the Tadd Dameron standard Lady Bird. This solo is from a Youtube video of a concert Dexter Gordon played in Belgium in 1964 and is a great example of Dexter’s phenomenal playing. I demonstrate all the concepts discussed on the tenor saxophone. (31 Minute Video Lesson, 9 chorus solo transcription in Bb)
Eef van der Burg –
Hi Steve,
The thing with Dexter touching on the edge of the pearls while playing is because he had big hands. You see that often . Thanks for all of your good work. Regards Eef van der Burg.
Steve –
Thanks, I’m not sure I understand that. If his hands were so big wouldn’t they lap over the pearls not barely be on the edges of them?