Five Things With Michael Griffin

1.Growing Up

I was born into a musical family with my mum being a music teacher and my dad being a professional saxophone player. Music was always around and I loved it. Pretty sure I came out of the womb clicking my fingers and tapping my feet.

2.Inspirations

Obviously I’ve been influenced by so many musicians, of course, mainly jazz. I love it all. As far as saxophone players, my faves are Charlie Parker, Sonny Rollins, John Coltrane, Cannonball Adderley, Kenny Garrett and Vincent Herring. Going to the land of jazz, NYC, was where I learnt the most. I saw the best jazz of my life, stayed up till 5am every night hopping between jazz clubs. Got my butt kicked by several people Whiplash-style [laughs]. Being around so many incredible musicians naturally improves you so much. Start spreading the news…

3.Your Band

For my album launch I’ve got the same guys from the album. They are some of the best musicians of this generation. We have all known each other since we were teenagers and have grown up climbing the jazz ladder together. It’s myself (alto saxophone), Dane Laboyrie (trumpet), Chris Long (piano), Brendan Clarke (bass), Tim Geldens (drums) and Briana Cowlishaw (vocals).

4.The Music You Make

I love music that swings, music that’s cookin’. It’s really important for me to connect with my audience. You’ll hear me play everything from jazz standards, the blues, blistering fast bebop, soulful ballads… however, I may even surprise you. I composed a hip hop instrumental entitled ‘Shut The Funk Up’ which will be available on my debut album Unexpected Greeting (ABC).

5.Music, Right Here, Right Now

The music scene has never been an easy road, but it’s about persistence. We persist because we live and breathe it, it’s who and what I am. I believe Sydney is getting better, more venues are trying to make it work, which is good. I think the culture of Sydney has suffered a lot in recent times but I do believe things are changing for the better.

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