YORKTOWN, N.Y. — Of his many passions, the saxophone brings Yorktown High School senior Joe Longo great joy. Joining the band in fifth grade with his father’s encouragement has been one of the best decisions he’s made. Now, he has his sights set on continuing his musical journey in college. We caught up with Longo in early February to learn more about his musical beginnings and what drives him.
When did you start playing saxophone?
I started playing alto saxophone in fifth grade, when we first got to choose our instruments for the school band. I loved the alto sax, but switching to [baritone] sax in ninth grade was one of the best decisions I have ever made. The joy I get from playing is unlike anything I have ever experienced.
Do you plan to continue performing after high school?
I am currently preparing to audition for colleges for music performance. It's been my dream for a while to be a professional musician, and I hope to play music in college to improve myself further. My top school currently is Ithaca College, and I will hear back from them once I audition this month.
Who inspires you?
First off, I am greatly inspired by my parents, who could not be more encouraging when it comes to my musical endeavors. I am also inspired by my Band Director Ms. [Emily] Kluga, who always pushes me to be better and challenges me to reach my full potential as a musician. My current biggest inspiration is a baritone saxophonist named Leo P, whose band Too Many Zooz makes music unlike any genre I’ve ever heard. His playing has driven me to improve my saxophone skill and explore new techniques, experiment with different styles, and develop my own unique sound.
What makes playing in band interesting?
I am so glad my father was able to convince me to join band in fifth grade, because being able to make music as a team is the most fun thing I have ever experienced. The thing I love the most about the YHS band program is all of the different opportunities to explore. There are so many different ensembles, like the Jazz Band and the Symphony Orchestra, which you can do while also having time for things like sports or other extracurriculars.
What do you do in your free time?
During the school year, I spend a lot of time skiing as a member of the YHS Varsity Ski Team, which I enjoy just as much as playing music. I also love playing video games and going into town with my friends. During the summer, I work at Shattemuc Yacht Club in Ossining as a sailing instructor for their Junior Sailing Academy. Sailing has been a passion of mine my whole life, so being able to pass that down to the next generation is incredibly rewarding. I enjoy seeing my students develop their skills and confidence on the water, and it reminds me of how I first fell in love with sailing myself.
Pick the top five songs you would put on your playlist or a mix tape.
“Doomsday” by MF DOOM
“People Get Up And Drive Your Funky Soul - Remix” by James Brown, Fred Wesley, and The J.Bs
“Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Pts. 1-5)” by Pink Floyd
“505” by Arctic Monkeys
“Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” by Cage the Elephant
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