City-based saxophonist Ryan Sadri shares insights into a musical instrument he feels one with
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Though a master of saxophone, an instrument that is Jazz-specific, he doesn't think twice before collaborating with DJs or artistes from other genres. Mumbai musician Ryan Sadri has been making music since 2002. He cut his teeth playing with the band, Something Relevant, till he enrolled for a music course at Swarnabhoomi Academy of Music (Chennai) in 2011. Ahead of a gig with his ensemble, Rynosax & The Soul City, comprising Ron Cha (piano and keys), Nathan Thomas (bass) and Andrew Kanga (drums), the 33-year-old deconstructs his muse, the instrument. Edited excerpts from an interview:
How would you define a saxophone's sound?
It is a passionate instrument. The most amazing thing is that the sound that you generate comes from your breath. Your body has a direct connection with the instrument. It makes you feel closer to the music. This is what got me hooked to it. When you are playing it, you feel one with it.
You took the saxophone out of Jazz and made it versatile. How?
It has a lot of potential, it's flexible. I grew up listening to all kinds of music. Jazz provides you with a broad base. Today, most genres have their origins in Jazz. But it all depends on the player's taste. When you study Jazz, you have an open canvas to play Blues, Funk, Rock, Soul as well as Electronica.
What tunes will you be playing at the concert?
I can't give away much but we will most likely be playing Jazz standards. I was blessed with a daughter a month ago, and I rearranged an old song, God Bless The Child, which may interest listeners.