I’m searching for the swing,
Staccato syncopation,
Digging deep to find
Those dark and husky notes.

I’m summoning up the spirit,
Reaching for the vibe, of
Adderley, Rollins, Shorter,
Past masters of the ‘phone..

I’m seeking out the style,
A yearning aspiration,
To find perfection’s rhythm
And move both heart and soul.

A few weeks in and I’ve realised that, although I’m never going to be a master, I might just be able to get to a reasonable standard with continued practice.
(18.07.25)

© Ben Quant 2025
Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash

Those dusky notes invoke
The confident style of artists
Playing with casual swagger.

In black and white and blue
These pioneers in rhythm
Charted paths as one.

Dancing in defiance
Improvising in flight
And finding voice for souls.

A week of rehearsing a little bit at a time, I’m finding I can more consistently get the notes I’ve learnt and even play a few tunes. Even with my beginner’s squealing, the sax instantly invokes the sound of jazz. I’m going to love this journey!
(27.06.25)

© Ben Quant 2025
Photo by Jens Thekkeveettil on Unsplash