Description
I compose and perform original music in a modern jazz genre. Many other genres are mixed into this, along with unique time signatures & grooves. All of my compositions are about people, places & things around me, and all have a unique story. I strive to be different and challenging while allowing audiences to have fun.
Work Sample
One of my originals "Squared Circle." From our performance & clinic at Southern IL University in Feb 2023. 3 minutes & 58 seconds long.
While all of my tunes are different, you can get a good sense of what we do and what we're attempting by listening to the 3 works I added. Again, I'll state that I think besides being fun for an audience to listen to, the style and approach is different from most things out there.
History
I have been an active performer based in the Chicago land area for 20 years. I perform all original music in a modern jazz genre. Recently I released my eleventh album, all of originals, and have been enjoying great reviews, tour dates & other local performances. In addition to Illinois, I have been traveling around the United States with my band for the last 8 years. In addition to performing & composing I am also an educator. I teach several different masterclasses and am both a Vandoren & Conn-Selmer artist.
Artistic Vision
I strive to be me. I mix jazz style with several other genres that I grew up with. I also like to be unique when it comes to melodies, rhythms & time signatures. Again, I don't want to sound like anyone else. Also all of my original tunes is written for people, places, things and important events around me and in my life. When performing live shows I often briefly talk about the meaning behind all of them. That along with our unique style always leads to an audience that is very appreciative & excited.
Programs for Specific Audience(s) Expertise
I am great at working with and talking to audiences. I mix in storytelling and a bit of humor. After most shows there will be a line of audience members wanting to talk to us, ask us questions & purchase merchandise. I also do many joint concerts/masterclasses with students bands, ranging from jr high to college level. I and my band work very well with students. We help and share new info with them while making it fun and interesting.
Traditional Folk/Ethnic Artform Statement
[Artform statement]
Name
Shawn Maxwell
Type
Individual Artist
Address
PO Box 88
Oswego, IL 60543
Artistic Director
Shawn Maxwell
[email protected]
773-842-7052
Contact Person
Shawn Maxwell
[email protected]
773-842-7052
Web Site
Artistic Discipline(s)
Music
- Jazz
Geographic Availability
Central Illinois
Chicago/Chicagoland
Northern Illinois
Southern Illinois
Western Illinois
Fee Ranges
$800 - $3000
Additional Services
Demonstrations
Lectures
Master classes
Residencies
Teacher Development
Workshops
Core Audience(s)
Adult
Youth