Jazz musician Courtney Pine is on tour with his new show which pays homage to the first great saxophone star Sidney Bechet.

He talks to Helen Barnes about the New Orleans musician's influence on his career.

The show is a tribute to Sidney Bechet - how would you describe his music?

The music that I have been performing has not been replicating the great Bechet's music, it's more about the fact he has been so influential to the direction of the form. His music is lively, energetic, full of possibilities and at the same time being very logical, human and a true reflection of his (New Orleans) social climate.

How did he inspire you in your career?

When I first heard him play Summertime on the soprano saxophone I could not get with it, believing that it was older people's music. Very quickly I learned how he had inspired musicians that I was listening to, so I listened a bit harder and then his genius came through. The real deal breaker was the track The Shiek of Araby, recorded in 1941, where he played all the instruments. The subsequent recording was banned as it was deemed to put musicians out of work by the union. Bechet the jazz rebel!

In previous interviews you have said you wished you had spent more time when you were younger practising playing the saxophone. How, and when, did you start playing the instrument?

Due to an early inner city education, the school I attended did not have many instruments so trying to convince my music teacher that I was serious about playing the saxophone meant I started relatively late (age 14). I have been catching up on a lot of the basics.

How difficult was it to master?

I am still trying to master it!

Is there an instrument that you would like to learn to play?

The drums

2010 has been quite a year having received the Living Legend Award and an honorary doctorate. How does it feel when you receive such accolades for your work?

It proves that jazz music is still a relevant art form that, if played with conviction, will be noticed.

Apart from the tour - and release of your new album - do you have any other projects in the pipeline?

I am producing a couple of records for artists on my record label - the first being a jazz/zouk record by the virtuoso guitarist Cameron Pierre. I am still looking for jazz artists to be on the label. I am getting involved with the Mary Seacole Memorial Appeal in which we hope to erect a statue in her honour outside King's Hospital. I am glad to say I am still busy in music and if there are any youngsters out there wondering if a music career is a viable option then I am living proof that it is if you're 'ard enough! No, but seriously, if you're dedicated enough.

Courtney Pine Band, Fairfield Hall, Park Lane, October 21, 7.45pm. Call 020 8688 9291 or visit fairfield.co.uk