Phil Woods (Saxophonist)

Saxophonist and Educator Phil Woods has inspired thousands during his long career, from students to family (he is Sunday Morning Harmony host Daniel Woods Karcher's uncle).

Phil not only teaches the fundamentals of music, but also speaks of the hidden truths of the music business. "If you are contemplating a life as either a brain surgeon or a jazz musician, choose brain surgeon," says Woods. "Music is only for those who have no other choice. If you do not have the fire in the belly and the ability to keep it aflame for a lifetime, don't mess with it!"

Listen to Samples: http://www.philwoods.com/discography/index.php

NEA Jazz Masters 2007

This year's class of Jazz Masters covers the global spectrum of the jazz community. The IAJE Conference invites the NEA Jazz Masters to attend the conference and connect with the educators and students they have so greatly influenced. Here's a brief look as this year's Jazz Masters:

2007 Fellowships Recipients

• Toshiko Akiyoshi - Bandleader
• Curtis Fuller - Solo Instrumentalist (Trombone)
• Ramsey Lewis - Pianist
• Dan Morgenstern - A.B. Spellman NEA Jazz Masters Award for Jazz Advocacy
• Jimmy Scott - Vocalist
• Frank Wess - Solo Instrumentalist (Flute)
• Phil Woods - Composer-Arranger

Photo credits: Ray Barretto - photo by Jean-Jacques Pussiau; Tony Bennett - photo courtesy of Sony BMG Music Entertainment; Bob Brookmeyer- photo by Wolfgang Gonaus; Chick Corea - photo by Pino Ninfa; Buddy DeFranco - photo by Denny Lester; Freddie Hubbard - photo by Jimmy Katz; John Levy - photo by Leroy Hamilton.