Filipino-American saxophonist and composer Jon Irabagon joins the ranks of legendary saxophonists sharing their stories on The Playful Musician. Born in Chicago, Irabagon studied at DePaul University before moving to New York City to earn his master’s degree at the Manhattan School of Music, followed by postgraduate studies at Juilliard. He has taught on four continents and is currently on the faculty at the University of Illinois Chicago, where he teaches jazz saxophone, directs combos, and leads courses in jazz history.

Jon’s story begins in the Windy City, a place that shaped and molded his unique, evolving expression on the alto saxophone. His parents had emigrated from the Philippines in search of a place where they could find work, start a family, and feel accepted in a new country. Irabagon’s sweeping career is like hearing the American Dream set to the brassy, warm tones of the alto sax.

With his newest album, Someone to Someone, from his label Irabbagast Records debuting today August 15 we sit down to discuss how he went from being a little kid too small to carry a saxophone to the bus stop to become one of Time Out’s “25 Essential New York City Jazz Icons” and one of my personal favorite alto sax players.

In this episode, we discuss why he started his own label and his theory on releasing albums authentically, his insights from private lessons with Dick Oatts and Dave Liebman, his teaching philosophies and techniques (covering everything from goal setting to social media), how he landed a gig with Billy Joel simply by asking the right question, and his dream of one day releasing an album featuring all nine saxophones he owns and plays.

Jon’s passion for music and his ability to cut straight to the heart of what it means to be a working musician will leave you inspired and ready to stream his music.