Michael Saddekni
Musical Teaching Artist
Birmingham-based saxophonist, jazz educator, rapper, singer, composer/arranger, and bandleader.
About Michael
It's hard to know when exactly my musical journey began. My CV lists the standard bullet points: played saxophone since 6th grade, did marching band at Vestavia Hills High School, got a Bachelor's in Saxophone Performance from Samford University, then a Bachelor's in Jazz Studies at University of North Florida, and finally a Master's in Jazz Studies at The University of the Arts in Philadelphia. But music is more than that.Musicianship isn't just a matter of how many degrees I have. Nor is it how many instruments I play, songs I have memorized, or how many big names I've played with. Who I am as a musician is the accumulation of every minute spent being surrounded by music. If I'm driving, there's music on. Back when my CD player was busted, my brother and I used to rap and beatbox. If I'm playing a video game or watching a show and hear a song I like, I immediately go learn it. On hold with the internet company too long, I've got a horn out and I'm playing along with the hold music. And if there's no music at all I'm making it, whether that's singing, drumming, or whistling, music is not just something I do, it's a fundamental part of who I am.I believe my music to be a reflection of this. I've been fortunate enough to be exposed to just about every genre under the sun, and I do my best to combine these experiences into a unique and original sound. I hope you enjoy the performances I've posted below. Please support my channel, and buy the album if you dig what you hear. I look forward to seeing you at a live show!
Book a Lesson
Buy the Album
My debut album, "What It Is", is on the way! The first of it's kind, every song is either an original composition of mine, or an arrangement of a tune that has meant a lot to me personally, including some video game tunes. Incorporating saxophone playing, singing in the style of Cab Calloway, and rap verses in multiple styles, this album shows not just my range of musicianship, but also showcases the music that I love.Stay tuned for the official release!
