Jazz Sessions: In Conversation with Edgar Byars

I am a jazz saxophonist from Cincinnati, Ohio studying at the University of Miami.

Meet the band that will be playing with me: 

• Myself - Tenor Sax

• David Galli - Alto Sax (West Palm, FL)

• Sten Greifer - Drums (Washington DC)

• Aash Durg - Guitar (Austin, TX)

• Theo Stathopulos - Bass (Denver, CO)

What do you love most about performing Jazz music? 

I love jazz music because of how it allows for so much creativity, and I feel able to truly express myself through this music.

What instruments do you play and how long have you been playing for? 

I've been playing saxophone since elementary school, and I've recently picked up flute and clarinet during my time at UM.

What can we expect from your performance?

You can expect some original music, along with some tributes to greats of Jazz, such as John Coltrane and Cannonball Adderly.

Top 3 musical influences? 

There are so many influences, but if I had to pick 3 I would say Dexter Gordon, Charlie Parker, and John Coltrane.

If you could play with any one musician (living or dead) who would that be and why?

If I could play with any one musician I would play with Charlie Parker. He was the great innovator of modern music and his playing was extremely powerful. I would've loved to hear him in person just once.