As I approached Market Street, I heard the sweet sounds of a saxophone, but could not see where they were coming from. I crossed the street following the sound until I came across a gentlemen nestled into the corner of a street billboard, sitting on a portable stool, blasting out awesome jazz tunes. He continued to play and when he finally stopped we began to talk.
He introduced himself as Jerry, a 20 year San Francisco resident. Prior to San Francisco, Jerry spent 10 years as a merchant seaman. Born in New Orleans, he’s been playing music since the 3rd grade. Having gone to school in New Orleans and playing with two of the Marsalis brothers (Wynton & Branford) and Harry Connick, Jr., Jerry seemed like the real deal. He talked about opening at several clubs in San Francisco many years ago as a solo act (Elbow Room, as an example) and also used to have a band called Jerry Woo & the Unknown Giants.
We talked for quite awhile and he wasn’t really soliciting donations like many street musicians. Since he did not have any other employment, and he treated me to a great mini-concert, I felt compelled to leave him with a few dollars for his talent. Jerry shared his email address and phone number with me and asked that I send him one of the photos. We shook hands and he got back to playing; and as I walked down Market, the music faded into the distance.
Taken 8/28/14
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