Derrick Michaels-tenor saxophone
Jacqueline Pollauf-harp
Brent Madsen-trumpet
Zachary Swanson-bass
“Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path.” - Brene Brown
On Oct 16th 2019, I assembled a unique improvising "chamber" group featuring three friends of mine who are masters of their instruments. I named the ensemble "Daring Greatly" in honor of the groundbreaking book by Brene Brown. This was a part of a 12-month concert series I was running, and I wanted to bring together a group that would give me no place to hide and might force me to grapple with tendencies in my playing that were feeling problematic. The performance did not disappoint in this area. As a male tenor saxophonist, it can be quite difficult to transcend the traditional role of my instrument, and the baggage that comes with it - boisterous, loud, out-in-front at all times...this was a great opportunity to try and blend into the fabric of an egalitarian ensemble.
The following excerpt is the very first piece we created together that evening - this is the birth of the music, in the moment of conception - it's all in there.