Artist bio
Evan Batkin is a woodwind musician from Kiama, NSW, Australia. Specialising in saxophone improvisation with a penchant for funk, soul, reggae and swing. Evan has performed and toured extensively over the past decade while also working as a passionate woodwind teacher and school band coordinator within the Illawarra and Shoalhaven regions.
Program notes
Within my major creative project, I have embarked on a saxophone-centred journey to craft a contemporary instrumental EP, a sonic exploration of modern saxophonists’ diversification and innovation. Collaborating with a talented ensemble, including Ethan Ferguson on drums, Brody Blackman on guitar, Martin Shull on piano, Jack Clare on Keys, Jack-Bradley Robbie on bass, and myself on tenor saxophone, we have woven our sound across three diverse tracks. This EP aims to transcend genre boundaries, encompassing funk, smooth jazz/ballad, and synth-pop, while echoing the innovative spirit of contemporary saxophonists.
The essence of this project lies in the exploration of feel, style, and the cultivation of my own developing ‘sound’ as a saxophonist. Modern saxophone techniques infuse this work, from growling, multiphonics, overtones, and flutter tonguing to altissimo and large bends. Through this EP, I aspire to contribute to the ever-evolving soundscape of contemporary saxophone playing, drawing inspiration from a spectrum of musical genres and techniques.