As a professional musician I’ve been privilaged enough to work around the world with some great people. I like to share what I’ve done because I’m proud of it but, most importantly, because it can show others breaking into this ever-changing business some of what’s possible.
how neal earned his nickname.
In short, “nervous” was a nickname given to me by a frustrated bandleader. Two years out of music school, I was eager to sacrifice my stifling position in retail management to go on tour as a professional musician, with a charismatic guitarist who, although a few years younger, seemed to be making a name for himself. Two months of rehearsals produced a band that was both tight and energetic, but during the long drive toward the first two-week long engagement of the tour, I was given the news. A series of events initiated by a bar fight rendered most of the band unavailable for the tour.
“It’s just the blues. We’ll pick up new musicians along the way,”
was the indifferent solution awarded to my concerns.
And that’s how I was introduced on stage during the gig I hoped would be my big break into a career as a professional musician. Despite my apprehension and embarrassment, the tour was a success. Of course, there were other bands to join once that came to an end. Apparently, they had all heard the story. My reputation had preceded me in ways I had not anticipated.
…the kind of sax player I like – big tone, relatively simple (in the good sense) melodic ideas, playing with the band and not just for (himself).
This love of the saxophone and all things musical has taken me all over the world, giving me opportunities to work professionally with some incredible musicians and people. From guest artist roles on albums to commercial jingles and live performances with musicians ranging from Dizzy Gillespie to Alex Chilton, my gradual progress through this landscape has been interesting and, at times, pretty exciting.
I am currently employed full time as a private saxophone instructor, jazz clinician, and freelance performing and recording musician. Check my shows page to see where and when I’ll be playing next, or message me to sign up for a lesson. I’d love to hear from you!
Queens-based film soundtrack ensemble Morricone Youth, with regular performances in Manhattan and Brooklyn in 2011
From taking sax lessons or hiring me for a show to collaborating on a musical project, I’m happy to talk about working together. Just reach out to get started.