About this episode

Steve Wiest interviews Jeff Coffin about creativity, collaboration, and the music life.

In this episode of You Dig? , Steve Wiest sits down with legendary saxophonist and composer Jeff Coffin for a wide-ranging conversation about creativity, collaboration, and the lifelong journey of music. Jeff is known for his work with Béla Fleck & the Flecktones , the Dave Matthews Band , and his own genre-bending ensemble Mu’tet . He has also released more than two dozen albums as a leader and teaches at Vanderbilt University , mentoring the next generation of musicians. Steve and Jeff discuss: • The legendary North Texas jazz program era • Practicing 8–12 hours a day in the pursuit of mastery • The concept of “transparency of sound” in great ensembles • Collaboration with Béla Fleck, Victor Wooten, Roy Wooten and others • Writing groove-based music in odd time signatures • African musical influences in modern jazz • Jeff’s visual art and album cover design • Teaching philosophy and creative exploration Plus, Jeff takes part in the Dig You Inquisition , answering rapid-fire questions about music, art, superheroes, and the meaning of life. A thoughtful and joyful conversation about staying curious, staying creative, and staying connected to the music. __________________…

Topics covered

• creativity
• collaboration
• music life
• jazz
• teaching
• art

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