Sam Sadigursky: Clarinetist for Philip Glass Ensemble, The Band’s Visit, The Solomon Diaries

Sam Sadigursky is a renowned clarinetist, composer, and member of the Philip Glass Ensemble. In this episode, we explore his latest project The Solomon Diaries with Nathan Koci, his work on Broadway in The Band’s Visit, and his career spanning jazz, classical, and contemporary music. Sam shares stories from touring with Philip Glass, mentors Brad Mehldau and Lee Konitz, and his upbringing in a musical immigrant family.We also dive into improvisation beyond music, the impact of streaming algorithms, and the cultural legacy of the Borscht Belt. Listen to insights into Sam’s unique voice as a composer and performer, and hear excerpts from some of his wonderful creative output. Sam Sadigursky’s websitePodcast website: episode page with YouTube, TranscriptNewsletter sign-up Podcast merch Buy me a coffee?Other episodes you'll love: Meg Okura Tasha Warren Yale Strom Colleen Allen Rachel Eckroth and John Hadfield(00:00) Intro(02:11)Sam’s musical family and early influences(08:02) jazz, hearing heroes play teen years in L.A.(10:12) Isaac Sadigursky, VNP Hora with clip(14:26) move out to New York(17:05) about Six Miles at Midnight with clip, Nathan Koci, Satie influence (21:07) Touring with Philip Glass Ensemble(25:23) influence of Glass, Migrations Vol. 5 Solomon Diaries(28:59) clarinet music, Eleven from 24 Rhythmic Duets for Clarinet, teaching, Vince Trombetta(33:54) other linked episodes you’ll love and ways to spread the word!(34:33) about “Lucky” vol. V The Solomon Diaries, wife Sarah, Danny Fox(40:10) early jazz mentors and opportunities, Brad Mehldau, Bill Berry(42:31) parenting, streaming and music industry challenges(45:44) Broadway: The Band’s Visit and beyond(51:18) solo piano music, Incidentalee dedicated to Lee Konitz, from Figures/Broken Pieces performed Nick Sanders(54:39) many instruments, decision to focus on clarinet(57:38) Borsht Belt history, Marisa Scheinfeld, The Solomon Diaries(01:03:24) Guy Klucevsek, “Secondhand” The Solomon Diaries Vol. IV by Nathan Koci(01:08:17) creative output, music industry challenges, Words Project, upcoming projects