Nick Franciosa on Saxscape Mouthpieces
"Having
worked with Dave Guardala rating and evaluating his horns, I was exposed
to his artistry in crafting his exquisite mouthpieces. While I was there
I had the opportunity to try countless pieces. I myself own several
including some special pieces. They speak for themselves.
After having contacted Ken for a baritone piece, he had me try a tenor
prototype. I now play this prototype.
Ken demonstrates an uncanny ability to understand the mechanics of creating
wonderful mouthpieces. He makes pieces as a player, not a machinist.
Understand, I was not looking for a tenor piece. I had them. Including
a killer Link that I refaced (ask Ken). Ken's Uptown Live prototype
has relegated the DG's to spares. That is the level of expertise possessed
by Ken.
BTW he also plays a killer horn." -- Nick Franciosa, September
2006
Nick Franciosa worked for over a year as a horn evaluator for Dave Guardala, and has studied tenor with Bob Berg and Steve Grossman. He currently freelances on performance and studio gigs in the New York metro area. Nick has worked with me on the design of the Uptown NF, which is based on his killer metal Link. The prototype he mentions above in his quote is now available as the Uptown Live, the newest refined version of the standard Uptown.