In this interview, we talk with Nick Marziani, a versatile jazz musician from the bustling streets of Manhattan, NYC, known for his soulful saxophone melodies that resonate through the city’s vibrant jazz scene. Explore Nick’s musical odyssey, from his introduction to Make Music Day to his unwavering dedication to jazz and musical exploration. Join us as we delve into Nick’s influences, experiences, and his enduring passion for musical expression.
How did you find out about Make Music Day?
Funny enough, there is this incredible pianist and vocalist I work with, Ethan Ostro, who works for Make Music Day. He’s the best. He told me what they do and invited my band to be part of it. We play sort of on the verge of smooth jazz and dance music, rough jazz, sort of a bunch of different things. He also told me that it’s a great way to build community and spread live concerts throughout the city. So, we decided to be part of it.
How was your experience at the Make Music Day events?
It was an incredible experience. I participated in Make Music Day last year, and I believe I played at the 70th Street Pier, where I had previously performed without realizing it. The team was super nice; whether they were artists themselves or not, they understood what we needed as artists and what we were trying to present to the audience. Additionally, speaking about the performing experience itself, it was awesome because so many people were there—people of all different ages, from little kids to older individuals. I believe, for many of them, it was their first time watching a live performance of jazz music, like smooth jazz. So it was cool to bring that to them.
How did you start making music?
Well, my parents forced me to take piano lessons as a kid, and I had no interest in doing that. So, I asked my mom if I could switch to playing the saxophone to avoid the piano, and she agreed. I was around ten years old at the time. Initially, I wanted to play the trumpet instead of the saxophone. However, one day, my mom played a Kenny G CD for me in the car, and I realized I wanted to play what he was playing—it sounded way cooler.
Do you only play the saxophone? Or do you also play other instruments?
I love playing other instruments as well. In fact, I still perform gigs on the clarinet and flute, both of which I learned during my school years. Currently, my primary instrument is the saxophone, but I still enjoy playing the clarinet and flute. I also occasionally play the keyboards.
At what point did you realize you wanted to do music for a living?
I think once I picked up the saxophone and started getting into jazz music and smooth jazz, I began with Kenny G, Gerald Albright, and Spyro Gyra. I listened to them on the radio, and that was really inspiring to me. I wanted to learn to play music like that on my instrument. After about a year of playing the saxophone, I realized I had found my instrument.
Apart from jazz, what other genres do you enjoy playing?
I’m a sucker for any old-school soul and R&B. I also like dance music, IDM, house, and all that kind of stuff. I’m super into playing that music with DJs; it’s a totally different experience, and it’s fun to see people dance to your playing. I also play a lot of funk and some Afrobeat stuff—kind of a mix of everything. Besides jazz, I think R&B, funk, and dance are the big three for me.
And what are some artists that inspire your playing nowadays?
Honestly, many of the same artists who inspired me when I first started playing the saxophone continue to inspire me today, such as David Sanborn, Grover Washington, and Eric Marienthal, among others. Other artists have had a profound impact on my playing as I got older, such as Michael Brecker and guitar players like Allan Holdsworth and Pat Metheny. I still listen to the saxophone players that I grew up with nowadays; they serve as my gold standard in terms of the vision I have for myself.
When did you begin pursuing music full-time?
It was probably when I got into high school that I knew I wanted to be a full-time musician. After school, I made the decision to pursue music full-time. So, from there, I charted my path through music.
How would you describe what music means to you?
Music is everything to me. Most importantly, it’s therapeutic and healing. During any rough patch I’ve faced in my life, I feel like I’ve been able to deal with it more constructively because of music.
What would you say your goal in music is?
My goal in music is to produce the best records and concerts possible and to play to the best of my ability. I aim to do the best work I can, creating music that I’m genuinely proud of and that people can enjoy. Providing enjoyable music experiences is important to me, as long as I get to express my story through my music.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start out in music?
Do what you like. Figure out the songs, instruments, and music styles you enjoy, and find people who share your musical interests. Many people pursue music because they feel pressured to do so, but it’s important to engage in music for your own enjoyment if you want it to become a lifelong passion. Find what you want to do and what you enjoy, and get as deep into that as possible.