“It’s my voice; it’s an extension of myself. With the saxophone, you’re able to give it texture. You can bend the note, growl with it; you can subtone. There are all these nuances I’m able to accomplish. You can make the instrument sing.”
What began as a tool to keep him out of trouble, saxophonist Adam Thompson has transformed into a premier musician. He took the stylings of legends such as Dave Sanborn, Kenny G, Charlie Parker and other jazz musicians to dedicate his natural talent to Christ.
Thompson is classically trained and draws from diverse genres of music. Some may not equate the saxophone with gospel, however when Thompson blows breath into his instrument and focuses on the music, he states he connects with the Creator.
When not playing his alto saxophone with local jazz great Gregg Bacon, Chaka Kahn or The UniverSoul Circus, Thompson serves in the music ministry at Nu Corinthian Baptist Church. The 25 year old also holds a B.S. in finance with a minor in music from Indiana University.He’s also one of several featured soloists at the “Let Us Encourage One Another” concert held at Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church. Thompson will join Men in the Fire, and soloists Shirley Robinson and Terry Moncrief among others for an evening of Christian expression through the arts.
“My take on it will be the gospel according to jazz,” said Thompson. “I’m going to be taking some old traditional hymns and putting some complex jazz cording to it. It’s a mixture that you can feel in your heart.”
There will also be a message of encouragement by Pastor Richard Curry of True Tried Missionary Baptist Church.
The three-time organizer of the event, Trent Laland believed this was a good opportunity not only to allow Thompson and others to give their hearts to God through music, but to truly uphold Hebrews 10:25, “let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another — and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
“Christians find their strength and encouragement by coming together to fellowship not only in church, but in homes, on trips, parks, wherever,“ said Laland. “Being a musician myself I know people enjoy good gospel music because it is very encouraging and uplifting.”
Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church, where Darryl K. Webster is pastor, has opened its doors inviting all to attend the event. As a place striving to show love, friendship and provide a spirit filled atmosphere, Laland believes this concert will uplift even the lowest of spirits.
“It’s another opportunity to fellowship with Christians. Even if you’re not, it’s an opportunity to see what’s going on in the music community in Indianapolis,” added Thompson.
For more information on Adam Thompson, call (317) 289-3831 or e-mail thompson.adam@yahoo.com. For more information about the concert, call (317) 546-8131.
