Don New Versatile saxophonist | Smooth Jazz, Motown, R&B, Pop, Big Band & Swing

For solo performances, my requirements are minimal. I can provide my own wireless microphone and, when needed, a compact sound system and backing tracks. For ensembles, technical requirements depend on the size and type of group and can be coordinated with the venue in advance. Access to standard electrical power and a suitable performance area are generally all that is required.

I mainly need to know where I’m playing, how to get my equipment in, where to park, and who my contact is when I arrive. For outdoor jobs I’ll need to know about cover from weather and direct sun. Larger groups may require some additional information about the stage, power and sound system.

Yes. For solo and small-group performances, I can provide appropriate sound equipment, including wireless amplification when needed. For larger ensembles or venues with an existing sound system, I’m happy to coordinate with the venue or sound provider. Lighting requirements, if any, can be discussed based on the event.

Yes. I can provide recorded music before, between, and after sets when requested, using my own DJ/playback system. Music can be tailored to the event, and DJ-style music playback can also be provided as part of a performance package. My system does not require an internet connection. Please provide your musical preferences and any special requests in advance.

After a lifetime of performing, I couldn’t possibly choose one “best” gig. Some of the most memorable have ranged from major concerts and performances with extraordinary artists to deeply personal moments—playing at my half-brother’s memorial service, sitting in with the swing band at my daughter’s wedding, and playing a duet with Livingston Taylor. What stays with me most isn’t necessarily the size of the audience or the prestige of the stage, but those moments when the music truly connects with the people who are there.

Choosing a best venue is even harder. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to perform in major concert halls and historic venues around the world, at the White House, for heads of state, and to record in legendary studios including Capitol Records and A&M. After all of that, I’ve learned that a great venue doesn’t necessarily make a great performance. The people, the music and the moment do.

I enjoy events where the music becomes part of the occasion rather than simply background music. Weddings, celebrations, memorials, concerts and private events can all be rewarding when there’s a real connection between the musicians and the people in the room. I especially enjoy situations where I can interact musically with other players, respond to the moment, and help make the event memorable.

I started gigging at age 14, playing saxophone in bands and events around the Philadelphia area, and I’ve essentially never stopped. I went on to study saxophone performance at Berklee College of Music and music education at West Chester University. While in college I left school temporarily to tour internationally with the Glenn Miller Orchestra, and after graduating I joined the Airmen of Note, the premier jazz ensemble of the United States Air Force, where I performed for 21 years. Since then I’ve continued performing in everything from jazz and show bands to weddings, private events, recording sessions and small ensembles. More than 50 years after my first gig, I still enjoy walking into a new musical situation and making it work.

My musical influences are almost impossible to reduce to a list. I spent years listening to records and trying to play like the musicians I heard, absorbing something from countless saxophonists, bands and styles along the way. But some of my strongest influences came from musicians I actually played beside. Al Gallodoro influenced me enormously when I had the opportunity to sit under his lead alto in a Paul Whiteman-style band. Lee Lachman, a mentor and friend I played alongside for decades, had a profound influence on both my playing and my career. And sometimes an influence comes from an unexpected place: right out of Berklee, the guitarist in my first rockabilly band leaned over during a gig and said, “You play too many damn notes.” I’ve never forgotten it. More than anything, I think I learned to play by listening—to records, to great musicians around me, and eventually to myself.

As for the greatest song of all time? I’ve been listening to music far too long to believe there’s o

I’ve been a professional musician for more than 50 years, and I’ve played in just about every kind of situation—from the White House, Carnegie Hall and international concert tours to weddings, parties, clubs, churches and backyard gatherings. I’ve worked in big bands, show bands, small jazz groups, horn sections and as a solo player. That experience means I’m comfortable walking into very different situations, figuring out what the job needs, and making it work.

Setup time depends on the type of engagement. For a solo performance with minimal equipment, I can usually be ready in 30 minutes or less. Small groups and larger ensembles require additional setup time, which will be coordinated in advance. Performance times are flexible and can be tailored to the event—from a wedding ceremony or cocktail hour to multiple sets for a longer event.

Absolutely. I’m happy to perform outdoors, provided there is suitable protection from direct sun and inclement weather. A level, stable performance area is also important, along with access to power when amplification or backing tracks are required. For fully acoustic performances, no power is necessary.

Yes. I want to know what you like and what you want to hear. Specific requests are welcome, and with enough notice I can usually add music that isn’t already in my repertoire. For longer jobs, give me an idea of what you enjoy and I’ll take it from there.

I’ve usually worked through bandleaders and contractors, so I haven’t had a lot of direct interaction with clients after an event. The feedback I value most has come from the musicians and leaders who hired me and kept asking me back. I’ve been told that I can lift a band “from damn good to incredible,” that I’m someone who “always came through,” and, perhaps most importantly, that people enjoy playing with me. I think repeat calls probably say as much as anything.

Absolutely. You don't need to arrive with a complete song list. Tell me about the event, the people who will be there, the atmosphere you're trying to create, and any music you definitely want—or don't want. I can help shape the music from there. If you have specific requests, let me know in advance and I'll do my best to include them.

Yes. In addition to soprano, alto, tenor and baritone saxophones, I play flute, piccolo, alto flute, clarinet and bass clarinet, as well as several other woodwinds. That can be especially useful when different parts of an event call for different sounds—for example, flute for a wedding ceremony and saxophone for the cocktail hour or reception. I can also use a wind synthesizer when something completely different is called for.