Faculty
Wildy Zumwalt, Associate Professor
About the Area:
Established in 1946, Fredonia’s saxophone program was one of the first of its kind in the United States. The program has a maintained a tradition of excellence in pedagogy and performance for over 60 years, and many of today’s most successful saxophone teachers and performers got their start at Fredonia.
The course of study in saxophone includes emphasis on the development of a focused and flexible tone quality that is adaptable to suit different musical styles. There is also extensive study of etudes in various styles to address issues of both technique and musicianship, as well as the study of scales, arpeggios and intervals aimed to develop physical mastery of the instrument. Solo and chamber music studies cover a broad spectrum of musical styles for the development of a complete musician. Additionally, Fredonia has one of the few active saxophone orchestras in the nation with a consort of instruments ranging from soprano to contra-bass saxophone.
Instruction in the saxophone studio is designed to promote intelligent and sensitive musicianship, with a teaching style that fosters independent and critical thinking while maintaining the highest artistic standards.
With the recent addition of the Sigurd M. Raschèr Archives to Reed Library, Fredonia is becoming recognized as one of the most important research centers for classical saxophone in the world. This collection consists of materials that once belonged to pioneering concert saxophonist, Sigurd Raschèr and includes artifacts, artwork, audio materials, books, correspondence, scores, original manuscripts, musical instruments, newspaper clippings, concert programs, press materials and photographs. These materials are available to Fredonia students for study and research.
The saxophone program at Fredonia provides talented young students with a challenging and nurturing learning environment. If you are serious about the saxophone and interested in developing your musicianship to its fullest potential please consider auditioning at The State University of New York at Fredonia.