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Take Five With Deon Yates
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Instrument(s):
Saxophones.
Teachers and/or influences?
Teachers: Hosea Taylor, Donald Washington, Herbie Williams, Edward Quicke, Harold McKinney.
Influences: Richard Elliot, Kirk Whalum, Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, Grover Washington, Jr..
I knew I wanted to be a musician when...
I saw this little kid, Cassius Richmond, playing jazz on his flute. I was in the third grade.
Your sound and approach to music:
I like to think that my sound is my own, but you can hear the influence of the elders as well as some contemporary players peak through. I approach music like I do life. I am open to the many flows of positive and creative energy that all forms of music have to offer, and I try to let that come out in my performance.
Your teaching approach:
Patience, Patience, Patience! I was taught a long time ago to find a player with a sound that I like, try to emulate then expand and ultimately create.
Your dream band:
I have had my eye on a spot with Rick Braun. When Richard Elliot is not doing the R&R thing I'm the go to guy!
Photo Credit
Courtesy of Deon Yates
Tags
Deon Yates
Take Five With...
United States
Richard Elliot
Kirk Whalum
Charlie Parker
John Coltrane
Grover Washington, Jr.
Rick Braun
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