"Being surrounded by like-minded people gives me so much motivation to work hard to become the best musician I can be."
Sam Norris - BA (Hons) Music (Jazz)
Sam Norris is a third-year saxophonist on our BA (Hons) Music (Jazz) course. Sam has gained lots of experience while studying at Leeds Conservatoire, including playing lead alto sax for the Student Union Big Band.
What has been the most important thing you've learned at Leeds Conservatoire?
To make sure I'm always enjoying making music. It's easy to get overwhelmed by all there is to work on, so it's vital to regularly remind yourself why you're doing it in the first place - to play because you love it.
What are you planning on doing after graduation?
I will start playing my original material at live shows. A huge goal of mine is to go on tour in the USA.
Is there anything you've encountered over the last few years that has really made you push yourself as a musician or anything new that you had not tried before?
Encountering all the other amazing musicians that study here has pushed me more than anything else. Being surrounded by like-minded people gives me so much motivation to work hard to become the best musician I can be.
What has been the best project / opportunity you've had during your degree?
Playing lead alto sax in the Student Union Big Band has been an amazing opportunity that has improved my ability to play with larger ensembles and leading a section.
What has been the biggest challenge and how has this helped you develop?
Due to having a career as a music producer whilst studying a full time Jazz degree, the biggest challenge for me has been the fact that I'm constantly swamped with what seems like an on-going list of projects/practice I need to work on. This has helped me develop better time management and has helped me accept the fact that I can't do everything at once. It's better to take things one step at a time.
What is your favourite Leeds Conservatoire Memory?
The energy and motivation to practice I often get walking out of my 1-1 lectures with Jim Corry.
How would you describe your experience at Leeds Conservatoire in three words?
Diverse, Creative and Inspiring.
Find out more about BA (Hons) Music (Jazz) at Leeds Conservatoire
Find out more about Sam Norris: YouTube
