Here are a few sound samples from recordings, in mp3 format. Generally speaking, I have tried to not "process" or alter the recordings, so you may need to adjust the volume level on your computer up or down as you listen to the different samples. Mp3 files on the internet are by necessity shorter in length and of lower general tone quality, but otherwise are a reasonable way to get a general sense as to what the music may sound like when you do not have the original CD.
The various recordings on this page are copyrighted by John McKenna and Michael Arnowitt. In many cases, the original CD or DVD recordings are available for purchase.
Each sample on this page has two versions - the first link is for downloading the file to a media player on your computer that can play mp3 files. The second link of each pair is to stream the sample, and this is only recommended if you have a high-speed internet connection.
This is my first attempt at uploading mp3s to the internet, so hopefully I have done everything correctly in the computer programming so you can hear the samples.
Enjoy the music!
mp3 samples of John McKenna, tenor saxophone (co-leader with Michael Arnowitt of the ImproVisions Jazz Quartet)
excerpt from The Solar Side (John McKenna)
Streaming version of excerpt from The Solar Side (streaming recommended only for high-speed internet connections)
A propulsive, energetic tune composed by John McKenna, with an imaginative spiraling melodic line. The lively, syncopated outer sections of the theme surround a contrasting interior episode of calmer music.
excerpt from Motionville (John McKenna)
Streaming version of excerpt from Motionville
A swinging tune with a wonderful driving bass feel and flowing harmonies that move effortlessly from key to key. John McKenna performs a fantastic solo here, full of musical explorations.
excerpt from I Concentrate On You (Cole Porter)
Streaming version of excerpt from I Concentrate On You
An up-tempo version of the Cole Porter classic: John McKenna’s saxophone takes us on an exciting ride.
mp3 samples of Michael Arnowitt’s jazz piano
excerpt from Softly, As In A Morning Sunrise (Sigmund Romberg)
Streaming version of excerpt from Softly, As In A Morning Sunrise
A jazz trio performance at an outdoor concert.
Lullaby of Birdland (George Shearing)
Streaming version of Lullaby of Birdland
A live radio performance of Michael Arnowitt’s beautiful conception to play Lullaby of Birdland as a lullaby instead of the usual medium-swing approach.
mp3 samples of Michael Arnowitt’s classical piano
Johannes Brahms - Intermezzo in A major, op. 118 no. 2
Streaming version of Johannes Brahms - Intermezzo
A performance from the final scene of the documentary film “Beyond 88 Keys”.
J.S. Bach - Fugue in E-flat major, from the Well-Tempered Clavier, Book II
Streaming version of J.S. Bach - Fugue in E-flat major
The opening selection from the CD “Constellation” (click here for a review of this recording in the London-based Penguin Guide to Compact Discs)
excerpt from Olivier Messiaen - Par Lui tout a été fait, from Vingt regards sur l’enfant-Jésus
Streaming version of Olivier Messiaen - Par Lui
Example of Michael Arnowitt playing 20th-century music: Olivier Messiaen’s classic fugue depicting the creation of the universe.