Described by Eugene Rousseau as, "a talented saxophonist," Jason T. Laczkoski is an engaging and innovative voice in saxophone. An active performer, Jason has presented numerous solo and chamber recitals in addition to frequent conference appearances. He has performed with both collegiate and high school orchestras as a featured soloist.
Jason makes frequent appearances as a clinician. He has been invited to give master classes at a number of colleges and universities. He may often be seen lecturing on how to develop an ideal saxophone tone.
Jason is on the faculty of Valley City State University in Valley City, North Dakota. He is the professor of saxophone and clarinet, and directs the jazz ensemble. Previous teaching posts include Lycoming College and Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
Jason came to music rather late in his life, and did not begin any musical studies until he was 15 years old. He quickly developed a passion for his art and went on to study saxophone with Dr. Joseph Murphy at Mansfield University.
Upon completion of his undergraduate studies, Jason went on to earn a master’s degree in saxophone performance from the University of Iowa, where he studied with world-renowned saxophonist Dr. Kenneth Tse. Jason remained at the University of Iowa for his doctoral studies.
In January 2011, Jason was the winner of a national competition in which he won a grant to record his debut album, Come Down Heavy. This recording was released in November 2011 on the Emeritus Recordings label, and is available directly from the artist, iTunes, Amazon, and CDBaby. The peer reviewed Saxophone Journal described his playing on this album as having, "a supple technique, rich sound, and ample musicianship, exhibits an impressive command of his instrument...one wants to hear him again."
An advocate of new music, Jason is constantly seeking out composers who write both intellectual and beautiful music. London based composer, Ian Stewart has completed a duet for Jason featuring the saxophone with violin and an electronic piece focusing on the coal industry. Other composers who have written for Jason include Sy Brandon, John Griffin, and Baljinder Sekhon.
Jason is an active member of both the North American Saxophone Alliance and the College Music Society. In addition, he is a Yamaha Performing Artist and performs exclusively on Yamaha saxophones. Jason is an E. Rousseau Mouthpiece Artist and performs exclusively on E. Rousseau mouthpieces. Jason is also a performing partner with the Co-op Press Fund.
