A World-Class Visit: Jess Gillam Inspires RMS Musicians

This week, Richfield Middle School band students had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn from international saxophone star Jess Gillam, whose vibrant personality and unmatched talent lit up our band room.

Gillam, a British saxophonist who began playing alto sax at the age of 7 and soprano sax at 15, visited both intermediate and advanced band classes for a special workshop. With support from the Schubert Club, who generously provided free tickets for our advanced band students to attend her concert at the Ordway, this visit was more than just a masterclass—it was a celebration of music, connection, and inspiration.

During her visit, Gillam performed pieces on her soprano saxophone, wowing students with her expressive sound and incredible technique. Afterward, she opened up the floor to questions from students—and they didn’t hold back!

Questions ranged from lighthearted to serious. “Are you single?” one student asked, prompting laughter. Others wanted to know everything from “How fast was that song?” to “What’s the most ineffective instrument in a band?” (Her answer: “The [conductor's] Baton—It has no sound, but is still super important!”)

Gillam’s answers were honest, engaging, and often deeply personal. She talked about her small hometown near Scotland, shared how she first discovered the saxophone at a local community center and encouraged students to stay consistent in their practice—“Make it part of your routine, like brushing your teeth. Even 5–10 minutes a day adds up.”

She also gave practical tips to improve tone and musicality: “Find a singer or a song you like and try to emulate the singer’s voice on your instrument.”

Students were fascinated to learn about her experiences playing around the world—including at the Sydney Opera House in Australia—and recording for a television series about Picasso at just 18 years old. They also found out she plays a little piano and clarinet but sticks mainly to the saxophone, and yes, she still has her very first one!

Throughout the session, Gillam didn’t just answer questions—she asked them, too. She showed genuine interest in our students, their instruments, and their musical journeys. Her warmth and enthusiasm were as memorable as her music.

“This was an unforgettable experience for our students,” said RMS Band teacher Corey Needleman. “Having someone of Jess’s caliber take the time to play, share her story, and connect with our students was incredibly inspiring. It’s moments like these that can spark a lifelong love of music.”

Her visit concluded with many students buzzing with excitement—she even signed a few autographs!

We are incredibly grateful to Jess Gillam and the Schubert Club for making this experience possible. It’s not every day that a world-class musician takes time to pour into young artists, but when it happens—it sticks.