Area saxophonists met at the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center from March 7 through the 9 for the North American Saxophone Alliance Region 3 Conference where they shared their passion for music through various events.
The saxophone alliance is a nonprofit organization composed of saxophone players of all ages and skill levels. Their mission is to provide saxophonists of any background an opportunity to learn more and make music in a positive community.
Biennially, the alliance holds saxophone conferences split among 10 regions. This year, the Region 3 Conference consisting of North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa and Nebraska was selected to take place at SDSU
Yiquen Chen, the primary saxophone teacher and jazz band director at SDSU, hosted the Region 3 Conference throughout the weekend by request. He said he enjoyed getting to see performances by his colleagues and appreciated the social aspect of the conference.
“Originally, we were scheduled to host in 2027,” Chen said. “After getting asked to host this year instead, I had to create the schedule, coordinate with featured artists, invite vendors and organize competitions in a timely matter.”
Whether participating in performance or not, all conference attendees listened in on master classes throughout the weekend. These classes consisted of collegiate saxophone students playing for master class presenters and receiving feedback to improve their skills.
One widely recognized master class professor, Kenneth Tse, was helpful to performers both in the audience and performing on stage. Tse is known as one of the world’s leading saxophonists after winning the New York International Artists Competition and participating in highly acclaimed performances at Carnegie Hall.
“It’s fascinating how one simple change can tremendously improve any performers sound quality,” Tse said. “Even just a slight adjustment of the neck strap and saxophone position can make a huge difference.”
Various saxophone vendors captured a lot of attention from attending musicians. The vendors allowed saxophonists to try out new types of saxophones by bringing their personal mouthpieces to attach to the tester instruments.
One SDSU music education student took particular interest in the electric saxophone on display at a vendor. Dylan Hartman, a sophomore, tested the unique instrument and appreciates its diversity compared to regular saxophones.
“I like how small and easy it would be to take with someone on an airplane,” Hartman said. “I think you can plug headphones into it too. That would be nice for when you need to practice without accesses to a private or soundproof space.”
The NASA Region 3 Conference at SDSU brought saxophonists together for a weekend of music, learning, and collaboration. With performances, master classes, and vendor showcases, attendees gained valuable insights and connections. The event fostered a supportive community, highlighting the passion and dedication of saxophonists across the region.
