Raising the Volume--J. Franklin

Across the Bay in San Francisco, there are tons of street musicians and performers alike daily. Some do it for money, others do it to entertain, and some do it to raise awareness. After listening to this man's smooth sounds and cozy chords, I had the urge to meet him, and perhaps learn a little bit about what drives him. I present to you, Jim Franklin.

Bio: Jim Franklin is a jazz musician of over 25 years. He has been playing since he was 6, but he began performing at the mere age of 9. Now, at the age of 32, he is primarily a saxophonist, but is adept at most any jazz instrument you will find. A con nosier of music history and a living testament to the power of music and its influence over us, Jim continues to save the music today, by making as much of it as possible. I was lucky enough for him to give me a few minutes to get his thoughts on the Save the Music campaign.

Me: What does Music mean to you?

Jim: "Music means... well that's a tough question. Let me say that music, to me, is the reason why. It is the reason why I practice the instruments I practice and create the music I create. Music, for me, is also guidance... a light that sort-of leads me in the natural direction for me as both an individual and musician. But, perhaps, what music means to me most is happiness. It is simply what makes me happy, and I know I'm not the only one so it's easy for me to do what I love in the hope of chasing, or rather helping to pursue a certain happiness for others. Yeah, that's what it is to me."

Me: How crucial do you think music education is to the youth?

Jim: "Well, it can be hard to argue that such is essential to success, but if you ask me, music education is critical to a child's development. Learning to read music is like learning a new language, and to create it we need to be in charge of the ingenuity and innovation locked inside all of our minds. Music education, and the younger age the better, allows us to unlock this and make what, to be honest, all of us have the ability to make.. music, of course."

Me: Why do you want to save the Music?

Jim: "Hah. Well, in that sense, I want to save the Music for those who, perhaps, aren't yet able to save it for themselves. I live each day of my life with the goal of making a positive difference in both my life and those who surround me and my music, because that's really all that matters to a man in my position."

Me: How do you plan to save the Music?

Jim: "I plan to do the same thing I have always tried my absolute best to do: make quality music."

Huge ups to Jim for his time and wise words, and I wish him the best of luck in his quest for Jazz et all.

Raise the volume,

Will