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Saxophone legend gives master class

  • Published
  • By Technical Sgt. Kevin Cerovich
WASHINGTON, D.C. - --  Legendary Saxophonist Sal Lozano worked with members of The U.S. Air Force Band on Thursday, January 28.

One would be hard-pressed to find someone with more breadth and depth of experience than Sal Lozano. A seasoned veteran of the Los Angeles music scene whose resume includes names from Gordon Goodwin to Lady Gaga, Lozano brought his wisdom to bear for all attending members. His clinic was open to all band members, with a special focus on woodwinds.

Woodwind players in The U.S. Air Force Band are well versed in all facets of professional music. Their ranks abound with everything from college professors to former Count Basie Band members. This clinic was a treat for all regardless of experience level.

As a native of southern California, Sal Lozano started out with legendary bands led by Johnny Mandel, Tom Kubis and Gordon Goodwin, with whom he won a Grammy. A true renaissance man, his work includes everything from his previously mentioned recording career to Broadway shows to live performance and a professorship at California State University, Long Beach.

All Air Force Band members in attendance certainly found something applicable to their individual craft. As professional musicians, they are acutely aware of the necessity of constant maintenance and innovation. Current musicians' skill sets are continually challenged by a harsh economy and unprecedented technological advances in music production. As someone who has thrived in the current uncertain climate of professional music, Lozano had much to share with the Air Force Band.

In the seemingly ever-increasing operations tempo in Air Force today, a squadron is lucky to have any outside help at all. The U.S. Air Force Band is certainly grateful for the opportunity to work with Sal Lozano. His time with the band will go far in advancing the excellence and zero- percent mission failure rate that people have come to expect from this great organization.