Sean Mason: Live Performance and Discussion of 'A Breath of Fresh Air' Album

The Genesis of 'A Breath of Fresh Air'

• 🎶 Sean Mason, a Grammy-nominated composer and jazz pianist, discusses the inspiration behind his new album, "A Breath of Fresh Air."
• 🏠 The album was conceived after Mason returned to his hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina, seeking a new creative path and a break from the intensity of New York City.
• 🤕 A pivotal moment was a foot injury sustained shortly after a challenging tour, which prompted him to re-evaluate his direction and led to a year-long stay at home.
• 💡 The album title reflects a feeling of renewed optimism and a sense of finally being able to "breathe again" after a period of difficulties.

Artistic Exploration and Personal Growth

• ❓ Mason sought to investigate profound questions about his purpose as an artist, his unique voice, and his place in the world.
• 🧘‍♀️ Solitude in his hometown allowed him to delve into the depth of his emotions, using music as an outlet to process these feelings and experiences.
• 🕊️ The album cover, featuring Mason jumping in the air, symbolizes the sense of freedom and release he felt during this period of creation.

Musical Journey and Influences

• 🎹 Mason discovered his passion for the piano at age 13, after trying trombone and drums, and was further inspired by the movie "Ray."
• 📚 He describes himself as largely self-taught on the piano, though he later took lessons and attended jazz camp.
• 🎓 While attending Juilliard, he learned the value of human relations and how to communicate with diverse individuals, a skill he still utilizes.
• 🌟 He credits his mentor, Branford Marsalis, for teaching him to prioritize art over ego and to not take things personally.

Performances and Album Themes

• 🎵 Mason performed two pieces live: "Kiss Me" and "Bone Back," the latter written to celebrate his foot's recovery.
• 🎼 His composition "Unfinished Business" explores the concept of work that still needs to be done.
• 🎺 For his concert at Miller Theatre, he plans to perform original music with a quartet featuring trumpet, piano, drums, and bass, along with jazz standards like "On the Sunny Side of the Street."
• 💬 Mason views jazz as a form of testifying, requiring vulnerability from both the musician and the listener, and finds joy and spirit in playing the music.