Isaac Hanson earns top Alto Saxophone honors through the Illinois Musical Education Association

By Brett McMahon

From the age of two, Isaac Hanson was drawn to music.

Initially, he wanted to play the tuba but is now glad he never followed that path.

Instead, after four years of piano lessons, Hanson decided to follow in the footsteps of his older brother by choosing the saxophone when presented with the option in fifth grade at Lincoln Trail Elementary.

Since then, Hanson has excelled to such a level that he’s performed at The Virginia Theater, State Farm Center, and even the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California.

Now, on Jan. 27, Hanson will represent the state of Illinois as the top Alto Saxophone player during an ILMEA (Illinois Musical Education Association) performance in Peoria. He will be part of an eight-piece band of performers selected from across the state, based on their ability with each instrument.

As a musician whose natural ability draws a lot of attention, Hanson said the sound, feel, and look of the instrument, alongside its great versatility that can be utilized in any type of musical genre is what continually draws him back to the saxophone.

Hanson’s breadth of knowledge with the saxophone and ability to excel in the music presented has granted him involvement with the Illinois Music Education Association’s annual performances. He’s also been featured in the Mahomet-Seymour Marching Band, at the Mahomet-Seymour High School variety show and sings the National Anthem for some sporting events.

He credits his success to two men he’s worked with: Dr. Christopher Anderson, from whom he takes Classical music lessons with the saxophone, and Professor Chip McNeill from the University of Illinois, who has taught him how to play Jazz saxophone. McNeill has even performed live with Hanson, something the MSHS Junior is proud to be able to say.

Hanson also plays on the worship team at his church, showcasing the gift he has been given while sharing and expressing his love of music. In terms of musical influences, Hanson cites many, ranging from Miles Davis and John Coltrane to Billy Joel and Stevie Wonder. For him, music is an essential part of life and as he listens to other artists intently, he picks up sounds he can integrate into his own musical styles when performing.

Accolades are nothing new to this musically-gifted student. Hanson won Woody Herman Award in eighth grade. This award goes to the best player in the jazz band alongside First Chair District honors in prior years. He hopes to continue learning from Anderson and McNeill while continuing to develop his craft.

This fall, Hanson looks to start auditioning for music schools where he can attend college while focusing on the saxophone. With his love for music, his ultimate goal is to one day become a professional musician.