Anjali Bose ‘20
For his exceptional skill, commitment, and expertise in both Concert and Jazz Band, Michael Bai ‘20 has been recognized as March’s Artist of the Month. Beginning in elementary school, Bai was enraptured by the saxophone. “I’ve been playing the alto saxophone for about seven years now. I’ve been a part of EA’s Concert and Jazz Band now for about four years.” Bai explains, “I’ve actually tried other saxophones before, like tenor or baritone. The alto saxophone just clicked with me the best, I really loved the higher register that it brings. It really cuts through the rest of the band in an interesting way.” Bai is currently band co-president along with Glay Yang ‘20.
Bai elaborates, “From the first time I played the sax, there was just an instant connection. It’s such an important and iconic instrument, especially when you think of jazz. One of the things I personally find so special is the versatility of it. I mean, there are bands of just saxophones for every part. It has the ability to just cover so many roles and ranges.”
Ryan Dankanich, Middle School and Upper School band director, has taught Bai throughout high school. “For all four years, Michael’s been in Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble. I heard about him through Tommy Lorenson [‘20]. He came and auditioned, and it was clear that he was a really great saxophone player,” Dankanich says. “In both ensembles, he really shows leadership through example. He just does his own job so well that it’s the perfect example of how it should be done.”
Bai’s excellence in the saxophone has made him a valuable asset. Bai is a prominent leader, explaining, “In Jazz Ensemble, I’m sort of the ‘go-to’ soloist. I’m also the lead alto in the saxophone section. That really just means that I take the lead when we’re reading the jazz charts for our section.”
“I’ve actually been first alto in both sections since sophomore year, which was really exciting. When I came in freshman year, the Jazz Ensemble was a very small size. Given that, each individual had to step up. I ended up having to fill some big shoes pretty quickly.” Bai continued, “It definitely pushed me forward to develop all of my improvisations and intonations. It was a great opportunity.”
“As first alto, there’s a lot of pressure to play your part perfectly,” Nick Cerone ‘22, a baritone sax player, says, “but whether it’s in rehearsal or performance, he always brings the band to life with his playing.” Bai’s presence in the bands is invaluable. Dankanich explains, “When he’s not there in a rehearsal, I can see it in the other students, there’s this moment like, ‘Oh no, we’re here without Michael.’”
“Mike’s commitment to bettering the band is phenomenal. His grit and dedication are so admirable,” Tommy Lorenson ‘20, a trombonist, says.
“Michael’s really the perfect soul of our jazz group.” says Neera Raychauduri ‘20, a pianist. She continues, “He’s one of the reasons why I work so hard at music. He’s phenomenal at improvising, sight-reading, and he also has perfect pitch.” Perfect pitch is a rare talent that enables a person to identify any note just by hearing it alone. Besides a great musician, Raychaudauri describes Bai as “a fun-loving and great friend.”
A defining moment for Bai throughout his band years has been the Berklee Jazz Festival. “During my sophomore year, [the festival] was definitely one of my most memorable experiences. I had a pretty cool solo during one of our pieces titled ‘Birdland.’ It was really exciting because I actually won an award for that solo.” He also carries many great memories from his spring and winter concerts, saying, “During our past winter concert this year, I had an opportunity to improvise during one of our pieces. I was really nervous, but I think it worked out great. Overall I’ve had an awesome senior year.”
Dankanich sums up Michael’s ability succinctly, saying, “He can do it all: sight-reading, sound, projection. Musical leadership needs to go to the person who can get the job done the quickest and guide the people the best. Michael is masterful at both.”
Likewise, Bai praises Dankanich’s teaching prowess and support. He explains, “Mr. D has been really helpful these last few years, especially when we only had eight people and no brass section. He’s been really encouraging and inspiring, and a driving force in pushing me to strive higher in improvisation and our jazz charts. He’s definitely one of the reasons I’ve improved throughout high school.”
“With musicians, it’s a lot about finding a voice and expressing that through music. A lot of that comes with maturity,” explains Dankanich, “He’s just improved on every level as a musician. I’m definitely going to miss him. He’s a unique talent and leader.”