[Main visual] Tara Davidson
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Tara Davidson

Saxophonist, Composer, Arranger, Band leader, Educator

“Music is My Happy Place”

Tara Davidson is an award-winning alto and soprano saxophonist who has performed at some of the world’s most prestigious venues, and an active educator presently on faculty at the University of Toronto and York University. We sat down with her to discuss her career so far and thoughts around music and education.

To begin with, I would like to know details about yourself and some background on your music journey.

My father, who was a high school music teacher, helped me pick the saxophone when it was time for me to start band class in grade 7. From there, I attended a local high school with a regional arts program so I could have a more music-intensive experience. Music was (and continues to be) my happy place.

With the support of my family, wonderful high school music teachers and a mentor (outside of school) named Mike Murley, I then pursued post-secondary studies at the University of Toronto for Jazz Studies. By then I knew I wanted to create a career in music (as a performer), so I worked hard to make that happen.

[Photo] Tara Davidson

How would you describe your relationship with music and education?

My father (who loved jazz) used to take the family down to New York City for infusions of music and theatre. When I was 7 years old, I got to hear Dizzy Gillespie perform at Carnegie Hall and Illinois Jacquet perform at the Village Vanguard.

My dad was a teacher, my mom was a teacher, and my stepmom was a teacher. It felt inevitable that I would, somehow, integrate education into my career. I really enjoy and find fulfilment from teaching music and have met some wonderful people along the way (some of whom pursued music careers themselves).

The joy of making music with other people, the potential for growth and evolution as a musician and person, is limitless.

When I’m playing music, I strive to get to a place where I am fully present in the moment, connect to my fellow musicians and support one another, and ultimately rise to the occasion or musical challenge. This is a blissful place when I can manage to get there. But sometimes I experience "growing pains" where I recognize it's time to get back to the practice room! But "growing pains" aren't negative because they spark growth.

Have you ever faced any gender equality issues? How did you overcome these issues?

I was lucky enough to have exceptional and fulfilling experiences performing with an all-female ensemble in my early '20's. This experience sparked more opportunities to perform with other female musicians (who were also great friends). There is an undeniable feeling of camaraderie when I get to experience performing with other women.

Reflecting upon my earlier years, I recognize I was extremely fortunate to have received unconditional support from the men in my life: my father, high school music teacher, saxophone mentor, and university professors. In this respect, I am grateful to say I didn't experience any issues.

The only issue I feel is of mention is that over the span of my career - particularly when I was younger - I feel I was sometimes underestimated by peers or audience members. I have, unfortunately, encountered some ignorant opinions about women in jazz since I left school over 20 years ago. That said, this only made me want to carry forward and continues to make me work harder even more. And I have gotten a bit better about tuning out any voices of descent.

What changes do you think need to be made to empower women and girls in the field of music?

More representation in the classroom (not just private lessons and in higher level courses) and in administration.

Message to the next generation

Support one another, work hard, dream big and invest in yourself.

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