Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniel Johnson-Brewer.
Hi Daniel, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve been playing saxophone for roughly 8-9 years, and I started playing in 5th grade. When I first started, I had originally planned on doing it through school for fun like many other people do; obviously, that’s not what happened! About the time I got into 8th grade, I had started to play jazz music, and I really got into playing saxophone. My band director at the time, Bruce Carlson, would bring in many local musicians that helped me realize that I could make a career out of playing music. From there on, I always knew I wanted to be a musician and further my craft. By the time I got into high school, I had started gigging and going to jam sessions around town, which helped me tremendously in getting my name out there. I also was introduced to the Jazz Academy, which is ran by the Jazz Arts Group of Columbus. When I was in the program, I learned so much about Jazz and got many opportunities I otherwise wouldn’t have had. I also had the great fortune of studying with one of the best saxophonists in Ohio, Dr. Michael Cox. I’ve been continuing my study with him at the Capital University Conservatory of Music, where I plan to continue to grow as a musician and person.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s definitely not been a smooth road; in fact, it’s been a rather bumpy one as is always the case with dealing with a career in music. Especially when the pandemic hit I, as well as many others, lost many opportunities to perform and meet new musicians. There have also been many personal struggles that I’ve had to deal with that aren’t necessarily related to music. One thing I try to remind myself is that I’m only at the beginning of a lifelong journey, and there are bound to be many struggles down the road. But as long as I continue to persevere through those bumps, I can always find a way to make it back on track.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
As a musician, I have the great fortune of working with other fantastic people. I’ve also been able to perform with various groups, such as Vaughn Wiester’s Famous Jazz Orchestra, the Rick Brunetto Big Band, New Basics Brass Band, and many others. As a saxophonist, I’ve also been able to teach many young aspiring musicians as a coach in the Capital Cadet Band and Junior Winds. I’m very proud of the fact that I get to do what I love every day and create music with others. I truthfully can’t see myself doing anything else. As far as what sets me apart from others, I feel that I am very passionate about my craft to further my career as a professional musician, and because of this, I am always trying to learn something new, and I am always wanting to better myself and my playing ability.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
I often use social media sites like Instagram and Facebook to reach out to other musicians and fans of my work. I feel that they allow me to show what I’m working on whether it’s related to music or not. This also gives a more personal feel as I can show what my day-to-day life looks like. I also use YouTube as a resource to learn more about my craft, whether it be videos on saxophone or music in general.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danieljbsax/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danieljbsax/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Danieljbsax
Image Credits
A Tribe For Jazz
Jessica Rudd
