On Dec. 7 the New York Chapter in conjunction with the GRAMMY Foundation and Verizon presented a GRAMMY SoundChecks with world renowned contemporary jazz saxophonist Dave Koz at the Beacon Theatre. Currently nominated for two GRAMMY Awards for his At the Movies CD, he welcomed approximately 40 GRAMMY U members and high school students to take part in his rehearsal for the "Dave Koz and Friends Smooth Jazz Christmas" concert. Koz began his rehearsal by introducing his band mates: Jonathan Butler, Wayman Tisdale and former American Idol contestant Kimberly Locke.
Koz briefly explained how he prepares for a show before he continued to captivate the audience during the rehearsal playing recognizable holiday tunes such as "Boogie Woogie Santa Claus" and "White Christmas" on his alto saxophone. Once the questions and answer session started, queries focused on maintaining longevity in the music industry, particularly in the face of Koz's busy and diverse scehdule. Koz has a multifaceted career as a performer, label owner, syndicated radio host, producer of a jazz sea cruise, as well as being involved in the Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation for more than 15 years.
Koz said that "music is an incredible bridge" between people in confirming why he loves what he does. Having worked with numerous artists such as Ray Charles, Natalie Cole, Celine Dion, and U2, Koz has been a virtual one-man bridge.
He provided the students with insightful information about his approach to music saying that his facility on his instrument comes first followed by the opportunity to be heard by large audiences. Together, both Koz and Locke discussed the value of diversifying your career in the music industry. Koz stated that in his line of work as a musician, humanitarian and entrepreneur that "doors will keep opening and you should embrace them. You cannot have tunnel vision" in regard to a career in music. He affirmed that having a plan B is crucial to being successful.
Koz was generous and gracious while interacting with GRAMMY U members and students and was very willing to explain the challenges of working in this business.