In conversation with Mississauga’s renowned and award-winning musician, Carson Freeman.

1. What or who inspired you to become a musician?
I loved the sound of the sax after hearing it on a children’s album, but it was when the high school band visited my public school that I was first inspired to play music. I was excited about the opportunity to take sax lessons in high school. The high school sax player that inspired me is named Jean-Yves Bégin, and he was my first saxophone teacher. My first musical hero was a nervous teenager, learning to play the saxophone.

2. Of all the instruments, why saxophone?
The first time I heard a live band with a sax, the tone of the tenor sax resonated with me. I loved its range, dynamics, and vocal qualities.

3. What's been one of your most memorable performances?
I performed with Canadian singer, Michael Bublé. The sold out theatre was electric, and you could feel the rooms energy, and respect for his talent and fame.

4. How do you prepare for a gig on the day-of?
My last consideration is the music I’ll be performing, or if all of my gear will work properly. I need to be in a great mental headspace so I’m able to problem solve if needed, and a calm performance ready energy . Getting to the events early, with time to sit in silence, and prayer puts me in the right zone to execute the music.

5. What succinct advice do you have for aspiring musicians?
I remind myself and others, that music is entertainment. It shouldn’t be hard stressful work. Being able to perform music, and to be compensated in return, is an honour that should be humbling, and gratifying.

6. Of all the projects you've been involved in, is there one that stands out more than others and why?
My upcoming concert on November 29 at the Living Arts Centre will be the first time I’ve performed several of my own compositions, and arrangements. This concert is more important to me than others from the past.

7. How can people connect with you?
Social media and through my website. I actually socialize with people via social media.