Saxophone Soloist

Solo Performer's Bio 

Winner of numerous concerto competitions in the U.S., South America, and Europe, Jonathan Snowden is a highly gifted saxophonist, who—before turning his attention to composition and conducting—was initially accepted to the UMKC Conservatory on a full-tuition scholarship for Classical Saxophone Performance.

Formerly a pianist from age 7 and violinist from age 10, Snowden's precocious abilities as a performer quickly earned him the seat of concertmaster for the KC Youth Symphony by age 12. That same year, he made his conducting debut with the KC Youth Symphony and his school orchestra. At age 13, he inherited a saxophone and immediately seized the opportunity to teach himself a wind instrument, all while continuing his violin studies. At age 17, as a completely self-taught saxophonist, he won 1st Prize in his first concerto competition.

His diverse musical background (as a concertmaster, composer, and conductor) gives him a unique position when performing as a soloist. Praised for his "expressive, flexible tone...." and "unparalleled musicianship," Snowden is known for bringing lively performances to the concert stage, using deep knowledge of orchestral scores to connect with musicians and audiences alike, and creating musical experiences that are both accessible and exciting.

Snowden's primary saxophone teachers are Zach Shemon and Tim Timmons. He has received additional mentorship from Joe Lullaff and Leo Saguitguit.

Jonathan Snowden performs on Selmer (Paris) instruments. He can be heard playing on a 1954 Mark VI and a gold-plated Jubilee Series III.

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