Joey the Saxman

As the once famous Steve Lacy said, ``the potential for the saxophone is unlimited``.   It`s a shame that today the saxophone is not considered an instrument of choice, it`s heart wrenching to think that such an extravagant instrument may become a dying breed.

The saxophone family was invented by the Belgian instrument maker Adolphe Sax in 1840. Commonly used in classical music, military and marching bands, it is the one of the signature sounds of jazz. Exploding in America, the saxophone`s popularity was embraced by Vaudeville audiences that appreciated the sax`s comical tones and by dancers that would swing to the sound of big bands. Every musical genre has been embraced by the sound of the sax; Bebop, rock and roll, classical and experimental. The sound having a voice like quality, can make us laugh, cry and dream.(Photo courtesy of David Betito.)

Joey ``the Saxman`` Bolusi, is a Montreal Saxophonist whom first started playing when he was 10 years old. Having been struck by the sound, the look and feel of the instrument, he sacrificed and dedicated his time and energy to learning and playing the instrument that he describes as the sound that melts your soul. With a disciplined theory, he began performing in high school and by the age of 13 had already performed with a 32 piece band. He plays solo or as a duo at numerous amount of weddings and corporate events, plays with The Mother Jones Band and along side the very talented Lorraine Klaasen http://www.lorraineklaasen.com/ whom just received the Singer/Songwriter of the year award at the 2014 Socan Awards.

I asked him why he thinks the instrument is not as popular as it used to be.

``Today's generation wants quick and fast results as opposed to taking the time to fully learn the theory and technique. Playing an instrument is hard work and it has to be a passion. Between children having their noses pointed at their phones and playing on the Internet, the quality of time is spent less and less on the discipline it requires to be a great instrument player.``

Although having taught his sons how to play at a very young age, he has recently started teaching. You can contact him at joeythesaxman@hotmail.com and/or visit his Reverbnation Site at http://www.reverbnation.com/fan/joeythesaxman.

You can see him playing solo live at the Crown Plaza on February 7th for `` Night of Elegance`` or on April 18th at the Embassy Plaza in Laval for ``Generation IV``. This Montreal old school revival tribute and charity reunion will help support Sun Youth`s child find program. With four generations of music and performances by The Hi-Fins, Calypso Time, the Snooksta and many more, it will be an elegant evening and reunion for a good cause. Visit their website at https://www.mosrt.ca/.

Hopefully the next generation will learn and appreciate the beauty and charm of the saxophone before it disappears. His son, whom also plays the jazz saxophone at Vanier college and has recently won an award will hopefully lead by example.        

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