Saxophonist Joshua Redman stomped his foot on the stage and shouted into the crowd of The Fox theater during the Whitworth Jazz concert on Nov. 9. This concert marked the second time that Redman had come to play with Whitworth since 2011, being one of only three guest artists in total to be invited back. The concert set list featured songs like John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s “Let It Be” as well as John Mayer’s “Stop This Train.” Additionally, a clinic was held in the Cowles Auditorium on Nov. 8th where students asked him questions about his career and opinions on the Jazz world.
Redman was the 30th guest artist to come to Whitworth. His career as an American Jazz artist garnered accolades such as six Grammy nominations and collaborations with other accomplished Jazz names in guitarist Pat Methany and drummer Brian Blade. In 1999, Redman even appeared on the children’s TV show “Arthur” on PBS alongside famed cellist Yo-Yo Ma.
During the concert, Redman’s playing was also characterized by eclectic shuffling of his feet, alluding to his personality that many members of the band complimented.
“He’s one of the most humble guest artists I’ve ever gotten to meet. He’s such a good person,” Senior Andrew Peltonen said, “I learned from Joshua that it’s important to be yourself in your music and define your own personality as a musician.”
A saxophone player himself, Peltonen gave insight into Redman’s skill. “He’s a wild ride and his technical abilities are out of this world. He has a complete package that definitely stands out.”
Prior to the concert on the same night was a private event for families of the Jazz Ensemble. Speaking at the event was director Dan Keberle.
“The guest artists we bring in are so inspiring. They do what we would all like to do and they do it better than anybody,” Keberle said. “I’d say the inspiration is the biggest thing for me.”
The conclusion of the concert was met with a standing ovation. Redman also joked about coming back to Whitworth a third time.