George Young was my first hero. He was THE local hotshot on sax. He and his Review were tearing it up at all the local clubs, both in Philly and at the Jersey shore during the summer months, always getting top billing. He was an incredible technician and could play flawlessly high above the normal range of notes the saxophone was intended to produce. He had been recorded on small local label and I listened endlessly. My hero…
As a young saxophonist, no pun intended, I first met George personally as the result of a talent show at the Roxy, a nearby club of some repute. Some kid won the show that night, singing inside an empty TV console, no accounting for taste… I finished in second place, despite my alto statement on Harlem Nocturne, but I was lucky that night. In the audience was a friend of George, and she had a phone number. I think maybe she was a bit confused because I wanted his and not hers, but nonetheless, she was very kind to help))…
I called and arranged for a meeting. He came to my house one night to hear me play and decide if I was worthy of his instruction. To say I was nervous is an understatement…My hero…My house…He arrived as planned.At the time, I had a dog named George (no connection). When George (the sax player) looked for a place to sit in my living room, George (the dog) ran in and jumped onto the furniture. I yelled ‘George, get off the furniture!’ George (the sax player) froze half way into his chair and asked rather sheepishly, “Is it OK if I sit?”…We later shared relief and laughter about the moment. I am not sure if it was my playing that night or my yelling, but he agreed to take me as his student! Very cool!
George (the sax player) by all accounts is a brilliant musician. Sometimes, those who are so gifted have difficulties as teachers. My weekly lessons were challenging, subject to his whims about what was important that day. I struggled to find continuity in his lessons. I survived the violin etudes (?), grueling exercises, his wacko approach to teaching (not uncommon among the greats), and his passion for music. Above all else, the one thing I learned and treasure the most was: Whatever you play, make it sing!!!…eh)))…