BY YANA MURASH
The spring and summer nights in Riyadh have become great opportunities to see the live jazz & saxophone band led by Sudanese sax player Aiman Nour. Aiman is a great sax player bringing emotions and passion to his music. Jazz Nights became a popular night music entertainment in Riyadh and we shall be seeing more of his performances.
Tell us more about yourself.
I am from a lovely city called Kosti in the central province of Sudan; an amazing place full of fun and kindness. The people are very simple and humble. When they welcome you, you will feel really special.
Where can we hear your music?
I am currently playing at the Four Seasons Hotel in the Kingdom Tower. You can also find me at Nozomi Restaurant and also in AlKhozama Hotel and Hilton Hotel & Residences.
Where did you learn to play the saxophone?
I began my music career 18 years ago. I first played flute and after a while, I started to play the saxophone.
What kind of saxophone do you play and why did you choose it?
There are so many kinds of saxophones. Soprano Sax is the smallest and the Alsto is a bigger instrument. The Tenor is my favorite because I like how it sounds. The tones make it a very fascinating instrument; its sounds can take listeners to places.
Do you have a favorite saxophonist?
My favorite saxophone player is not very popular but he is very talented. His name is Warren Hill from Canada. I also enjoy my friend Mahmoud Mustafa’s music. He is a fellow Sudanese saxophonist.
Do you usually play solo or with a group?
I like to play both ways: as solo or with other musicians. Of course, with other musicians, I need more practice with the group to find harmony together. It needs lots of effort and many workshops.
How do you see the music industry across the Kingdom?
The music industry in the Kingdom is growing but growing slowly. It needs more time and effort to expand. I wish it could be included in school curriculum so that it can grow faster.
Where is your dream location to play at?
There are so many places that I dream to play, such as the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Riyadh, the Royal Court, the Diplomatic Quarter where I played twice at the Italian Embassy… however, generally, every place matters to me. The most important is to play perfectly and to give the audience the best concert. It is my dream to play my music internationally and I will pursue it. I hope one day I can go for it.
