Lessons beyond the stage: Jazz icon returns to TSU with a masterclass for students 

By: Jourdan Mathis (ACCESS Student)

There comes a time in one’s life to reflect on the journey traveled, the lessons learned along the way. A wise person always gathers those lessons to share with those traveling the path behind them. World-renowned saxophonist and Texas Southern University alumnus returned to the place where his musical journey began to deliver a masterclass, inspiring the next generation of change makers. 

“Being here at Texas Southern is pregnant with a lot of meaning,” Kirk Whalum said.  

There has been an abundance of greatness that has walked through the halls of TSU, shining like the North Star, for students to witness their potential and the destiny that awaits them. 

For Kirk, observing someone pursue the very thing he desired allowed him to see that his dreams were not only possible but also tangible and more than achievable.  

“When I walked into Texas Southern, I met the great Arnett Cobb. It was a flashpoint for me in my own development to meet somebody in this neighborhood who was respected globally for doing the thing that I was here to learn how to do, and that is to play the saxophone,” Kirk Whalum said. 

Passing the torch to the next rising jazz giant has always remained important to Kirk Whalum. In the beginning stages of his own career, he took Kyle Turner, who is now widely known for his jazz talents, under his wing. 

“You’ll be responsible for taking these things forward and making new things out of them, and inspiring another generation just like you’ve been inspired. I’m glad Kyle was here. I had a feeling I’d be seeing him again. [It was] a certain look that he had. He was paying attention to what I was saying. Here now, people are paying attention to what he says, not just verbally but through his instrument, through his writing,” Whalum added.  

Where Excellence Meets Preparation 

Continuing the legacy of passing the torch, Whalum invited TSU student and musician polymath, Kvhondre Tinner, to perform a selection alongside him and Kyle Turner. 

“He caught me off guard. I just came to listen to him talk, and he was like, ‘I want you to play,’” Kvhondre Tinner, also known as Tahree-Amir, said. 

An overflow of Whalum’s wisdom filled the KTSU Recording Studio as attendees and the production staff, primarily students from the School of Communication, listened in. The mere participation of SOC students in this masterclass demonstrates their drive for success and their potential being manifested. 

“I sense in this room the greatness of potential. The fact that you’re here and you’re plugged in”, Whalum said.  

Kirk Whalum’s masterclass concluded not only with applause and praise but with a sense of continuity. Attendees left with a torch of wisdom, encouragement, and life’s instructions to pass along to the next generation that will rise after them.